BIOLOGY 

.    ORAHV 


Issued  August  31, 1916. 

U.  S.  DEPARTMENT  OF  AGRICULTURE, 

BUREAU  OF  ANIMAL  INDUSTRY. 
A.  D.  MELVIN,  Chief  of  Bureau. 


SPECIAL   REPORT 


DISEASES  OF  CATTLE. 


The 
Tuberculin  Test 

Its  Wonderful  Accuracy 

and  Various  Methods 

of  Conducting  It. 

98 

A  Symposium 

Culled  from  the  Most  Competent 
Authorities 

9S 

Published  by 

The  Cutter  Laboratory 

BERKELEY,  CALIFORNIA 
(Operating  under  U.  S.  Governmenl  License) 


Eastern  Agents  and  Distributors 

THE  CUTTER  LABORATORY 
OF  ILLINOIS 

180  N.  Dearborn  Street,  Chicago,  111. 


GH,  HICKMAN,  LAW, 
,  PEARSON, 
OWER. 


i^,  1916. 


»jvj  V  iMviNjoE/iN  1    nvii-v  iii<TG  OFFICE. 
1916. 


XEW   PRODUCTS — 

Calf    Scour    Serum 

Calf  Scour  Vaccine 

Antl-Antlirax    Serum 

Anthrax   Serum — Vaceine    Method 

B.   Abortus   Vaccine 

Chicken   Pox    (Rouit)    Vaccine 


Write    for    literature    and    more    extended    in- 
formation  on   these  products. 


Complete  li!<t  of  pi'oduc'ts  on  page  1-. 


Issued  August  31, 1916. 


U.  S.  DEPARTMENT  OF  AGRICULTURE, 

BUREAU  OF  ANIMAL  INDUSTRY. 
A.  D.  MELVIN,  Chief  of  Bureau. 


SPECIAL   REPORT 


DISEASES  OF  CATTLE. 


"The  Tuberculin  Test" 

Specificity   of   tlie   Tubercalin   Reaclion. 

Concerning  the  use  of  tuberculin  as  a  di- 
agnostic  agent.   Dr.   D.    E.    Salmon   concludes: 

(1)  That  the  tuberculin  test  is  a  wonder- 
fully accurate  method  of  determining  if  an 
animal   is   affected  with   tuberculosis. 

(2)  That  by  the  use  of  tuberculin  the 
animals  diseased  with  tuberculosis  may  be 
detected  and  removed  from  the  herd,  there- 
by  eradicating   the    disease. 

(3)  That  tuberculin  has  no  injurious  ef- 
fect upon  healthy  cattle. 

(4)  That  the  comparativelj'  small  number 
of  cattle  which  have  aborted,  suffered  in 
health,  or  fallen  off  in  condition  after  the 
tuberculin  test  were  either  diseased  before 
the  test  was  made  or  were  affected  by  some 
cause   other   than   the   tuberculin. 

The  most  reliable  means  of  diagnosis  in 
the  living  animal  is  by  the  use  of  tuberculin. 
The  subcutaneous  method  is  the  most  cer- 
tain method  of  using  it,  although  other 
methods,  such  as  the  conjunctival  (ophthal- 
mic) and  the  intradermal  method  have  cer- 
tain advantages.— (Moore.) 

Concerning  the  reliability  and  efficiency  of 
the  tuberculin  test  the  following  resolutions 
were  adopted  by  the  A.  V.  M.  A.  of  September 
10,   1908: 

"That  the  experience  which  has  been  ac- 
cumulated in  great  amount  since  the  dis- 
covery of  tuberculin  shows  conclusively  and 
novir  more  clearly  than  ever  before,  that  it 
affords  an  accurate  and  reliable  means  for 
diagnosing  tuberculosis  in  cattle.  The  per- 
centage of  errors  from  the  use  of  tuberculin 
when  properly  applied  is  so  small  as  to  be 
of  no  moment  when   compared  with   the  vast 


GH,  KiCKMAN,  LAW, 
,  PEARSON, 
;OWER. 


N,  1916, 


IjO- VE-niNivii^/iN  X    riviiN  JL11->TG  OFFICE. 

1916. 


oi-  nipple.     Tliis  test   is  not   usually  employed 
in    veterinary  practice. 

(5)  The  intracutaneous  or,  as  it  is  com- 
monly called  in  veterinary  practice,  the  in- 
tradermal test  (Moussu  and  Mantoux)  con- 
sists in  the  injection  into  the  skin  of  suita- 
bly diluted  O.  T.  or  purified  tuberculin  in 
doses  of  0.1  to  0.2  c.c.  The  intrapalpebral 
test,  as  described  by  Mohler,  consists  of  the 
injection  of  tuberculin  into  the  skin  of  the 
lower  eyelid  and  is  a  modification  of  the 
usual    intradermal    method. 


Relative    Sensitiveness    of    Tesls. 

According  to  Hamman  and  Wolman  the  in- 
tracutaneous (intradermal)  and  subcutane- 
ous local  tests  are  the  most  delicate  we  have. 
They  reveal  practically  the  full  percentage 
of   tuberculous   individuals. 

The  same  authorities  state  that  according 
to  their  sensitiveness  the  tests  are  to  bt 
ranked  as   follows: 

(1)  Intracutaneous    (intradermaH. 

(2)  Subcutaneous    (local    reaction'*, 
(o)      Cutaneous. 

(4)  Subcutaneous    (.-systemic    reaction'). 

(5)  Percutaneous. 

(6)  Conjunctival. 

Tuberoiilin. 

Tuberculin  is  the  liquid,  usually  glyceiin- 
ated  bouillon,  on  which  tubercle  bacilli  liave 
grown  until  it  has  become  saturated  with  the 
product    of    the    organisms    (Moore). 

DosuKre  of  Tubereiilin.  Subcutanc(ui.<  tfst. 
2-4  I'.c.  of  diluted  tuberculin,  each  c.c.  con- 
taining 0.12.5  c.c.  of  O.  T.  tuberculin.  M"hen 
re-test.s  are  made  within  six  months  the 
initial  dose  should  be  doubled.  Horses  same 
as  for  cattle;  goats  and  sheep,  i/^  c.c.  Swine, 
1   c.c.     Dogs,   0.1   c.c. 


I 


Issued  August  31, 1916. 


U.  S.  DEPARTMENT  OF  AGRICULTURE, 

BUREAU  OF  ANIMAL  INDUSTRY. 
A.  D.  MELVIN,  Chief  of  Bureau. 


SPECIAL   REPORT 


F  CATTLE. 


Conjunctival  test  (ophthalmic  test) —  O.  T. 
tul>ei-culin  may  be  used  but  concentrated 
precipitated  tuberculin  is  preferred.  Twen- 
ty to  50 'r  dilutions  of  tuberculin  in  pliysio- 
logical  salt  solution  are  employed.  The  dried 
puritied  tuberculin  (tablet  form)  is  a  con- 
venieut  form  for  use  wlien  conducting-  this 
test. 

Intracutaneous  (intradermal)  tt-st — ii.l  c.c. 
to  0.2  c.c.  of  a  solution  nf  ( ».  T.  (ir  jiurified 
tuberculin    may   be    used. 


GH,  HICKMAN,  LAW, 
,  PEARSON, 
lOWER. 


Ke.spouMe   to    the    Iii.U-ct ion    <>t"   'I'liiiemiiiii. 

Siibc-utnueoiis  Tiilieri-iiliu  Uouotiuii — Char- 
acterized   by    three   features: 

(1)  Constitutional  reaction,  consisting  of 
fever  wliich  is  the  most  pronounced  symp- 
tom in  cattle  and  accompanying  symptoms 
of  lassitude,   anorexia   and   rapid   pulse. 

(2)  A  local  reaction  at  the  site  of  the  in- 
fection of  varying  intensity  from  sliglu  red- 
ness and  tenderness  to  a  severe  inflammation 
with  adenitis. 

(3)  A  focal  reaction  about  the  tubercu- 
lous  lesion. 

These  reactions  do  not  run  parallel  and  a 
severe  local  reaction  may  occur  with  but 
little  or  no  constitutional  disturbance  and 
particularly  in  the  case  of  slight  pulmonary 
lesion.s  symptoms  of  a  focal  reaction  may  not 
be  evidenced. 

Teclinio  of  Subcutaneous  Tuberculin  Test — 

For  the  subcutaneous  test  tuberculin  may 
be  most  conveniently  administered  subcutan- 
eously  in  the  prescribed  dose  by  means  of  an 
accurately  graduated  hvpodermic  syringe, 
just  in  front  of  or  just  back  of  the  shoulder. 
For  the  convenience  and  safety  of  the  oper- 
ator the  elbows  may  be  braced  over  the 
withers  of  the  animal  and  the  injection  made 
on  the  side  opposite  to  that  on  which  the 
operator    is    standing. 


N,  1916. 


\jyjV  Cj  IVIN  .VI JC/  IN 


1916. 


NG  OFFICE. 


i 


The  syringe  used  for  injecting  the  tuber- 
culin should  be  first  sterilized  by  boiling  in 
water  for  15  ininutes.  The  syringe  needle 
should  be  disinfected  after  each  injection. 
At  least  two  preinjection  temperatures 
should  be  taken  and  these  temperature  read- 
ings should  be  made  at  an  interval  of  not 
less  than  two  hours.  The  usual  temperature 
limits  in  normal  cattle  are  from  101  to  103° 
F.,  although  both  of  these  limits  may  be  ex- 
ceeded at  times.  It  is  best  to  exclude  ani- 
mals showing  temperatures  over  103°  F. 
from  the  test  as  well  as  those  in  advanced 
stages  of  pregnancy.  During  the  test  all 
animals  sliould  be  given  good  care,  be  prop- 
erly fed  and  comfortably  stabled,  at  the 
same  time  the  usual  course  of  their  daily 
routine   disturbed   as   little   as  possible. 

AA'liat  Constitutes  a  Positive  Reaction.  Sub- 
cutaneous Test. — A  positive  temperature  re- 
action consists  of  a  rise  in  temperature  of 
1.5"  F.  or  more  (authorities  differ)  above 
the  normal  temperature,  as  shown  by  prein- 
jection temperatures,  and  this  rise  in  tem- 
perature should  be  maintained  for  from  2  to 
6  hours  before  it  drops  to  normal  (tubercu- 
lin curve).  The  rise  in  temperature  is  usually 
more  or  less  gradual  and  begins  from  the 
6th  to  the  12th  hour  subsequent  to  the  in- 
jection of  tuberculin  (delayed  reactions  be- 
ginning as  late  as  the  20th  hour  have  been 
noted)  and  reaches  its  height  from  tlie  li'th 
to  21st  hour,  gradually  returning  to  normal 
at  the  24th  to  the  40th  hour.  Accompanying 
the  temperature  reaction  a  general  organic 
reaction  may  be  shown  by  some  of  the  re- 
acting animals.  Shivering,  loss  of  appetite 
and  lessening  of  milk  flow  may  be  noted  as 
symptoms  of  an  organic  reaction. 

A  local  reaction  at  the  point  of  injection 
(swelling   and   tenderness)    of   the   tuberculin 


1 


Issued  August  31, 1916. 


U.  S.  DEPARTMENT  OF  AGRICULTURE3 

BUREAU  OF  ANIMAL  INDUSTRY. 
A.  D.  MELVIN,  Chief  of  Bureau. 


SPECIAL   REPORT 


DISEASES  OF  CATTLE. 


may  be  noted  in  many  of  the  reacting  ani- 
mals. Focal  reactions  are  not  often  noted 
in  cattle. 

Interpretation     of     a    Tuberculin     Reaction. 

Hutyra  ami  Marek  state  that  in  animals  over 
six  months  of  age  a  rise  of  2.7°  F.  over  the 
highest  normal  temperature  constitutes  a 
positive  reaction  or  a  rise  of  0.9°  F.  or  more 
above  normal  w^hen  the  temperature  exceeds 
104°  F.  Also  in  cases  where  the  tempera- 
ture is  elevated  1.8°  F.  to  2.5°  F.  above  nor- 
mal, Or  w^hen  it  exceeds  103.1°  F.  and  is  ac- 
companied by  symptoms  of  an  organic  (sys- 
temic)  reaction. 

Calves  under  six  months  of  age  must  show 
a  temperature  over  104.9°  to  indicate  a  posi- 
tive reaction. 

A  negative  reaction  is  indicated  when  the 
post  injection  temperature  does  not  exceed 
103.1°  F.  and  is  not  more  than  2.7°  F.  above 
normal  and  no  local  or  organic  (systemic) 
reaction  is  shown.  A  careful  and  systematic 
clinical  examination  should  also  reveal  no 
evidence   or   suspicion  of   tuberculosis. 

According  to  these  authors  if  the  results 
of  temperature  records  and  careful  clinical 
examinations  are  interpreted  according  to 
the  above  principles  they  will  be  found  to 
agree  with  post  mortem  findings  in  about 
98%    of  all   cases. 

Nocard  believes  that  a  positive  reaction  is 
indicated  when  the  post  injection  tempera- 
ture exceeds  the  pre-injection  temperature 
by  2.7°  F.  and  that  an  increase  of  1.5°  F. 
to  2.5°  F.  indicates  suspicion  only.  Sus- 
picious cases  should  be  re-tested  after  one 
month,    using   a   double   dose   of   tuberculin. 

The  International  Veterinary  Congress 
held   at   Budapest   declared    that   cattle   show- 


GH,  KiCKMAN,  LAW, 
,  PEARSON, 
;0WER. 


N,  1916. 


\jtKj  \  n,  is.i\  ivi  rj  iM  J.    rivij.>j  xii.'^G  OFFICE, 

1916. 


ing  pre-injcition  tenipei'ature.s  not  exceed- 
ing 103.1°  and  post-injection  temperatures 
exceeding  104"  F.  must  be  regarded  as  tuber- 
culous while  post-injection  temperatures 
above  103.1°  and  not  exceeding  104."  must  be 
considered  as  doubtful,  and  considered  indi- 
vidually. 

"It  is  the  writer's  belief,  after  tlie  careful 
examination  of  many  tests  and  the  making 
of  many  post  mortems  following  tuberculin 
injection,  tliat  a  slight  rise  may  represent  a 
reaction.  When  the  maximum  temperature 
ranges  from  103.5°  F.  down  to  103"  F.,  or 
even  a  few  tenths  of  a  degree  less,  the  cases 
are  suspicious  if  the  curve  is  well  marked. 
When  animals  with  such  temperatures  are 
slaughtered  from  40  to  60%  of  them  usually 
i-eveal  tuberculous  lesions.  AVItli  our  i»rc»ent 
kno\vle«lKe  «»iie  osiiiuot  be  ho.siIIao  of  a  re- 
action with  SI  toiiuuTature  oiir^  e  having'  Ji 
iiiaxiiiiiini  of  less  than  104"  K.,  but  in  all 
cases  in  wliifli  tbe  .siib.sequeut  teiniieratiire 
rang'es  between  KKt"  and  104"  should  be  con- 
sidered Nuspiclous.  There  are  a  few  cattle 
owners  who  exclude  from  the  herd  animals 
that  give  a  temperature  even  lower  than  103" 
F.  following  the  injection  of  tuberculin  if 
there  is  evidence  of  a  gradual  rise  and  de- 
cline."     (Moore.) 

Iiniiiiiuitv  From  Previous  Injections  of  Tn- 
berenlin.  In  some  cases  repeated  injections 
of  tuberculin  result  in  immunity  to  its  action 
so  that  it  is  onl.v  possible  to  judge  a  tuber- 
culin test  correc'tly  when  it  is  positively 
known  that  the  injected  animal  or  animals 
liave  not  been  treated  with  tuberculin  at  any 
time  within  the  preceding  four  weeks  and 
some  authorities  extend  this  limit  to  six 
months  and  even  a  year.  Nocard's  experi- 
ments showed  that  of  24  reacting  cows  only 
33%   reacted   to  a   test   applied   24    to   48   hours 


Issued  August  31, 1916. 


U.  S.  DEPARTMENT  OF  AGRICULTURE^ 

BUREAU  OF  ANI>AAL  INDUSTRY. 
A.  D.  MELVIN,  Chief  of  Bureau. 


SPECIAL  REPORT 


DISEASES  OF  CATTLE. 


after  receiving-  an  injection  of  tuberculin, 
50%  reacted  after  one  week,  60%  after  two 
weeks  and  nearly  all  of  them  after  a  period 
of  one  month.  Records  of  tlie  Prussian  sea- 
quarantine  stations  show  that  tuberculous 
cattle  previously  treated  with  tuberculin  will 
always  react  when  five  times  the  ordinary 
dose  of  tuberculin  is  administered.  Vallee's 
experiments  have  shown  that  cattle  will  re- 
act to  double  doses  administered  36  to  4S 
hours  after  a  previous  injection  of  tubercu- 
lin. In  these  cases,  however,  reactions  set 
in  earlier  C4th  to  9th  hour)  and  are  of 
shorter  duration  so  that  temi^eratures  should 
be  taken  at  2  hourly  intervals  immediately 
after   the    injection. 

It  is  of  interest  to  note  that  horses 
(Bang),  goats  (Eichhorn),  monkeys  and 
swine  react  to  the  tuberculin  test.  The  test 
in    dogs   seems   somewhat   less   i-eliable. 

Oplitlialiiiic  Reaction  (ophthalmo  reaction, 
conjunctival  reaction). — This  test  in  a  modi- 
fication of  the  ophthalmic  test  as  devised  by 
Calmette  and  T\"olff-Eisner.  A  strong  solu- 
tion 20  to  50%  tuberculin  O.  T.  is  emploj^ed. 
(Hutyra  and  Marek  recommended  •"»0%  O.  T. 
bovine.)  Dry  tuberculins  are  especially  rec- 
ommended. 

Teohnif  (ophthalmic  reaction). — The  head 
of  the  animal  is  held  by  an  assistant  and  the 
tuberculin  is  applied  to  the  conjunctival 
sack  and  the  closed  eye  gently  massaged. 

A  positive  reaction  is  denoted  by  a  puru- 
lent oonjunetiviti»i  which  appears  after  12  to 
24  hours  and  may  persist  for  three  to  four 
days.  A  repetition  of  the  test  after  24  hours 
in  doubtful  cases  accentuates  the  reaction  in 
positive  case.«.  This  test  has  tlie  advantage 
<it°    not    aireotinK'    milk    flo^-,    an<l    a    previous 


GH,  HICKMAN,  LAW, 
,  PEARSON, 
;OWER. 


N,  1916. 


1916. 


.x>TG  OFFICE. 


subcutaneous  injection  of  tuberculin  does 
not  prevent  the  reaction.  The  test,  however, 
is  not  as  sensitive  as  tlie  subcutaneous  or 
intradermal  tests  and  errors  are  consequent- 
ly more  frequent.    (False  negative  reactions.; 

The  Intradermal  (intracutaneous)  Test— 
This  test,  ranking  as  it  does  as  one  of  tlie 
most  sensitive  of  the  tuberculin  tests,  has 
rapidly  gained  in  favor  among  the  veteri- 
nary profession  since  its  introduction  by 
Moussu  and  Mantoux,  on  account  of  its  ac- 
curacy and  convenience,  especially  when  ap- 
plied  to    range   cattle   or   swine. 

Technic  Intradermal  Test  (Haring  and 
Bell). —  The  tuberculin  is  injected  in  1/20  to 
Vi  c.c.  amounts  into  the  deeper  layers  of  the 
skin  of  the  subcaudal  fold.  A  1  or  2  c.c. 
syringe  graduated  to  tenths  armed  with  a  25 
to  26  gauge  needle  and  having  a  point  3/16 
to  Vi  of  an  inch  in  length  is  suitable  for  this 
work.  When  properly  injected  the  tubercu- 
lin may  be  felt  as  a  small  lump  in  the  skin 
after  tlie  needle  has  been  removed.  A  solu- 
tion of  precipitated  tuberculin  at  least  5% 
strength  in  doses  of  1/10  to  1/5  c.c.  is  rec- 
ommended, though  Vz  c.c.  of  a  25%  solution 
produces   no   liarmful   results. 

A  Positive  Intradermal  Reaction — Is  indi- 
cated by  a  thickening  of  the  subcaudal  fold 
or  by  the  appearance  at  the  point  of  injec- 
tion of  a  characteristic  sensitive  swelling 
varying  in  size  from  that  of  a  small  pea  to 
that  of  an  orange.  The  swelling  may  be 
either  soft  and  edematous  or  hard  and  in- 
flamed. A  recognizable  reaction  may  be 
present  on  the  sixth  hour,  but  generally  the 
reaction  is  first  clear  about  the  12th  hour 
and  continues  to  increase  in  size  until  the 
48th  hour.  In  some  instances  we  have  ob- 
served that  the  early  local  reactions  disap- 
pear   before    the    48th    hour,    while    in    others 


avv3a2»«»w.y.="n  -.  /  Jr.Tf.wci'swii^— » - 


Issued  August  31, 1916. 

U.  S.  DEPARTMENT  OF  AGRICULTURE^ 

BUREAU  OF  ANIMAL  INDUSTRY. 
A.  D.  MELVIN,  Chief  of  Bureau. 


SPECIAL   REPORT 


ON 


DISEASES  OF  CATTLE. 


delayed  reactions  have  been  noted  which  did 
not  appear  until  the  19th  hour.  In  order  to 
be  certain  of  every  case  observations  must 
be  taken  at  least  twice  preferably  about  the 
36th  and  72nd  hours.  If  only  one  observa- 
tion can  be  made  it  sliould  be  on  the  72nd 
liour.  Small  iiiduration.s  at  the  point  of  in- 
oculation about  tbe  size  of  tlie  head  of  a 
parlor  niati-Ii  frequently  occur  in  normal 
non-reacting  cattle,  l>ut  anytliing  larger 
than  this  ^vhich  persists  to  the  72n<l  hour 
.should   be   considere*!  a   positive   reaction." 

Cattle  recently  injected  with  tuberculin 
frequently  do   not   respond  to   tliis  test. 

It  is  well  to  keep  in  mind  the  fact  that 
some  tuberculous  animals  will  react  to  the 
subcutaneous  test  and  not  to  the  intrader- 
mal, and  some  to  the  intradermal  and  not 
to  the  subcutaneous  test.  By  alternating 
or  combining  these  two  tests  and  always 
making  a  thorough  physical  examination  the 
maximum  number  of  infected  animals  should 
be  detected. 


GH,  HICKMAN,  LAW, 
,  PEARSON, 
;OWER. 


N,  1916. 


•as* 


The  Cutter  Laboratory 

Berkeley,    California  Chicago,    Illinois 

V.  S.   Veterinary   License   Xo.   ."li 


\jyj  V  nt  iv-LN  -vi  rj  j. 


1916. 


.xx'^G  OFFICE. 


LIST     OF    VETERI\ARV    BIOLOGICS. 


VACCIXES — 

Anthrax  "Vaccine — Single 

Anthrax   Vaccine — Double 

Anthrax      Serum-Vaccine      (Simultaneous 

Method) 
Blackleg  Vaccine — Single 
Blackleg  Vaccine— Double 

(Pill,  powder  and  string  form) 


BACTERIDS — (Bacterial   Vaccines) 

Anti-Influenza  Vaccine 

Anti-Suppurine    (a  polyvalent  vaccine  for 

treatment    of    suppurating    conditions) 
B.  Abortus  Vaccine 
Calf-Scour  Vaccine 
Canine  Distemper  Vaccine 
Canine    Distemper,    Prophylactic 
Chicken  Pox  or  Roup  Vaccine 
Pneumonia  Vaccine,   Mixed 
Polyvalent  Mixed   Bacterin 
Streptocine    (Streptococcus    Vaccine) 


SERUMS — 

Antistreptococcic    Serum 

Antitetanic    Serum    (Tetanus   Antitoxin) 

Anti-Anthrax  Serum 

Calf-Scour   Serum 

Distemper   and    Influenza   Serum 


Issued  August  31, 1916. 

U.  S.  DEPARTMENT  OF  AGRICULTURE, 

BUREAU  OF  ANIMAL  INDUSTRY. 
A.  D.  MELVIN,  Chief  of  Bureau. 


SPECIAL   REPORT 


DISEASES  OF  CATTLE. 


TIBERCULIIV — 

."Subcutaneous  Test 
Intradermal   Test 
Ophthalmic  Test 

MALLEIIV — 

Subcutaneous   Test 
Ophthalmic   Test 


GH,  HICKMAN,  LAW, 
,  PEARSON, 
lOWER. 


m 


Transportation  Charges.  —  We  prepay 
charges  on  all  sliipments  we  make.  Custom- 
ers must  prepay  charges  on  old  goods  re- 
turned. 

Ijiterature  descriptive  of  variou.s  products 
^vill    be   sent    on    application. 


N,  1916. 


The  Cutter  Laboratory 

BERKELEY,  CAL. 

Operating   under    V.    S.    Gov.    License. 

THE  CUTTER  LABORATORY 
OF  ILLINOIS 


Eastern  Agent 


180  N.  Dearborn  Street 
CHICAGO,  ILL. 


\jyj  V  Hi  X\.J.N  -VJ.  JZy  1 


1916. 


iNG  OFFICE. 


LIST     OF    VETERi:        >— 


VACCINES — 

Anthrax  Vaccine — ! 
Anthrax  Vaccine — 
Anthrax      Serum-V 

Method) 
Blackleg  Vaccine — 
Blackleg  Vaccine — 
(Pill,  powder  ar 


BACTERIXS — (Bacterii 

Anti-Influenza  Vac 
Anti-Suppurine  (a 
treatment  of  su] 
B.  Abortus  Vaccin< 
Calf-Scour  Vaccine 
Canine  Distemper 
Canine  Distemper, 
Chicken  Pox  or  R( 
Pneumonia  Vacciri' 
Polyvalent  Mixed 
Streptocine    (Strep 


SERUMS — 

Antistreptococcic    I 
Antitetanic   Serum 
Anti-Anthrax  Seru 
Calf-Scour   Serum 
Distemper   and    Inl 


a: 

H 
D 
U 
tu 


5£ 


c  o 


Issued  August  31, 1916. 

U.  S.  DEPARTMENT  OF  AGRICULTURE, 

BUREAU  OF  ANIMAL  INDUSTRY. 

A.  D.  MELVIN,  Chief  of  Bureau. 


SPECIAL   REPORT 


DISEASES  OF  CATTLE. 


Drs.  ATKINSON,  DICKSON,  HARBAUGH,  HiCKMAN,  LAW, 

LOWE,  MOHLER,  MURRAY,  PEARSON, 

RANSOM,  and  TRUMBOWER. 


REVISED  EDITION,  1916. 


■i 


WASHINGTON: 

GOVERNMENT  PRINTING  OFFICE. 

1916. 


6 


^^ 


\o 


\ 

■  \ 


Department  of  Agriculture, 

Wmhlnffton,  March  21, 1916. 
This  volume  is  a  revision  of  the  Special  Eeport  on  Diseases  of 
Cattle,  prepared  in  compliance  with  House  Concurrent  Eesolution 
No.  14,  passed  February  3,  1916,  as  follows : 

Resolved  hy  the  Hoxise  of  Representatives  {the  Senate  concurring),  Tliat 
there  be  printed  and  bound  in  cloth  one  hundred  thousand  copies  of  tlie  Special 
Report  on  Diseases  of  Cattle,  the  same  to  be  first  revised  and  brought  to  date, 
under  the  supervision  of  the  Secretary  of  Agriculture,  seventy  tliousand  copies 
for  the  use  of  the  House  of  Representatives  and  thirty  thousand  copies  for  use 
of  the  Senate. 

Since  its  original  publication  by  the  Department  in  1892,  several 
editions  have  been  authorized  by  Congress.  It  was  reprinted  in 
1896,  and  revised  and  reprinted  in  1904,  1908,  and  1912.  In  accord- 
ance with  the  above-mentioned  resolution  it  again  has  been  revised 
so  as  to  embody  the  latest  practical  development  of  knowledge  of 
the  subject. 

D.  F.  Houston, 

Secretary. 


CONTENTS. 

Page. 

Administration  of  medicines.     By  Leonard  Pearsox 7 

Diseases  of  the  digestive  organs.     By  A.  J.  ^Iurray 12 

Poisons  and  poisoning.     By  V.  T.  Atkinson 51 

Diseases  of  the  heart,  blood  vessels,  and  lymphatics.     By  W.  H.  IIarbaugh.  .  71 
Noncontagious  diseases   of  the  organs  of  respiration.     By  William  Herbert 

Lowe 85 

Diseases  of  the  nervous  system.    By  W.  11.  Harbaxjgh 99 

Diseases  of  the  urinary  organs.     By  James  Law Ill 

Diseases  of  the  generative  organs.     By  James  Law 145 

Diseases  following  parturition.     By  James  Law 212 

Diseases  of  young  calves.    By  J.\mes  Law 245 

,  Bones:  Diseases  and  accidents.     By  V.  T.  Atkinson 262 

Surgical  operations.     By  William  Dickson  and  AVilliam  Herbert  Lowe.  . . .  287 

Tumors  affecting  cattle.     By  John  II.  Mohler 301 

Diseases  of  the  skin.    By  M.  R.  Trumbower 318 

Diseases  of  the  foot.    By  M.  R.  Trumbower 333 

Diseases  of  the  eye  and  its  appendages.    By  M.  B.  Trumbower 338 

Diseases  of  the  ear.    By  M.  II.  Trumbower 353 

Infectious  diseases  of  cattle.     Revised  by  John  R.  Mohler 356 

The  animal  parasites  of  cattle.     By  B.  H.  Ransom 510 

Mycotic  stomatitis  of  cattle.     By  John  R.  Mohler 537 

Index 543 

8 


3429 : 5 


ADDITIONAL  COPIES 

OF  THIS  PUBLICATION  MAY  BE  PROCURED  FROM 

THE  SUPERIXTENDENT  OF  DOCUMENTS 

GOVERNMENT  PRINTING  OFFICE 

WASHINGTON,  D.  C. 

AT 

Sl.OO  PER  COPY 


ILLUSTRATIONS. 


Page. 

Plate      I.  Position  of  the  lirst  stomacli  (rumen  or  paunch) 48 

II.  Stomachs  of  ruminants • 48 

III.  Instruments  used  in  treating  diseases  of  digestive  org-\ns 48 

IV.  Microscopic  anatomy  of  the  liver 48 

V.  Ergot  in  hay , 48 

VI.  Ergotism 48 

VII .  Diagram  of  the  circulation  of  the  blood 84 

VIII.  Position  of  the  lung 88 

IX.  Kidney  and  male  generative  c~nd  urinary  organs 142 

X.  Microscopic  anatomy  of  the  kidney 142 

XI.  Calculi  of  kidney  and  bladder 142 

XII.  Fetal  calf  within  its  membranes 208 

XIII.  Pregnant  uterus  with  cotyledons 208 

XIV.  Vessels  of  umbilical  cord 208 

XV.  Normal  position  of  calf  in  utero 208 

XVI.  Abnormal  positions  of  calf  in  utero 208 

XVII.  Abnormal  positions  of  calf  in  utero 208 

XVIII.  Abnoi-mal  positions  of  calf  in   utero;   sm:gical  instruments  and 

sutm^es ^ 208 

XIX.  Monstrosities 208 

XX.  Instruments  used  in  difficult  labor 208 

XXI.  Instruments  used  in  difficult  labor 208 

XXII.  Supports  for  prolapsed  uterus 244 

XXIII.  Supports  for  prolapsed  uterus 244 

XXIV.  Instruments  used  in  diseases  following  parturition 244 

XXV.  Skeleton  of  the  cow 280 

XXVI.  Devices  for  casting  cattle 300 

XXVII.  Siurgical  instruments  and  sutures 300 

XXVIII.  Various  bacteria  which  produce  disease  in  cattle 358 

XXIX .  Upper  or  dorsal  surface  of  the  hmgs  of  the  ox 368 

XXX.  Broncho-pneumonia 368 

XXXI.  Contagious  pleuro-pneumonia 368 

XXXII.  Contagious  pleuro-pneumonia 368 

XXXIII.  Foot-and-mouth  disease 384 

XXXIV.  Tuberculosis  of  the  lungs  of  cattle 416 

XXXV.  Tuberculosis  of  the  liver 416 

XXXVI.  Tuberculosis  of  lymph  gland  and  of  omentum  (caul) 416 

XXXVII.  Fig.  1. — Tuberculosis  of  sirloin  and  porterhouse  cuts  of  beef.    Fig. 

2. — Tuberculosis  of  pleura  of  cow,  so-called  " pearly  disease" . . .  416 

XXXVIII.  Tuberculosis  of  cow's  udder 416 

XXXIX.  Actinomycosis 448 

5 


6  ILLUSTEATIONS. 

Page, 

Plate    XL.  Actinomycosis  of  the  jaw 448 

XLI.  Actinomycosis  of  the  lunga 448 

XLII.  Section  of  muscle  from  a  blackleg  swelling 464 

XLIII.  Necrotic  stomatitis  (calf  diphtheria) 464 

XLIV.  Normal  spleen  and  spleen  affected  by  Texas  fever 504 

XLV.  Texas  fever 504 

XLVI.  The  cattle  tick  {Margarojms  annulatus),  the  carrier  of  Texas  fever.  504 

XLVII .  The  cattle  tick  ( Margaropus  annulatus) 504 

XLVIII.  Portion  of  a  steer's  hide  showing  the  Texas  fever  tick  {Margarojms 

annulatus) 504 

XLIX.  Fig.  1.— Tick-infested  steer.     Fig.  2.— Dipping  rattle  to  kill  ticks.  504 
L.  Map  of  the  United  States  showing  region  infected  with  Texas  fever 

of  cattle. 504 

TEXT   FIGURES. 

Fig.  1.  Plan  for  freeing  cattle  and  pastures  from  ticks  by  rotation,  requiring 

four  and  one-half  months 489 

2.  Plan  for  freeing  cattle  and  pastures  from  ticks  by  rotation,  requiring 

eight  months 491 

3.  Plan  for  freeing  cattle  and  pastures  from  ticks  by  rotation,  requiring 

foiu'  months,  with  new  pasture ■ 492 

4.  Plan  for  freeing  cattle  and  pastures  from  ticks  by  rotation,  feed-lot  or 

soiling  method 493 

5.  Pail  spraying  jjump  for  small  herds 495 

6.  Hornfly  {Hsematobia  serrata)  in  resting  position 512 

7.  Hornflies  {Hsematobia  serrata)  on  cow  horn 513 

8.  Buffalo  gnat 513 

9.  Screw  worm  (larva  of  Chrysomyia  macellaria) 514 

10.  Screw-worm  fly  {Chrysomyia  Tuacellaria) 514 

11.  The  warble  fly  {Ilypoderma  lineata) 515 

12.  Short-nosed  blue  louse  {Hsematopinus  eurystemus)  of  cattle 518 

13.  Long-nosed  blue  louse  {Hsematopinus  vituU)  of  cattle 518 

14.  Red  louse  ( Trichodectes  scalaris)  of  cattle 519 

15.  Egg  of  short-nosed  blue  louse  {Usematopinus  eurystemus)  attached  to  a 

hair/. 519 

16.  Mite  which  causes  psoroptic  scab  of  sheep 520 

17.  Portion  of  the  wall  of  the  first  stomach  with  conical  flukes  {Paramphis- 

tomum  cervi)  attached 525 

18.  Twisted  stomach  worms  {Ilxmonchus  contortus) 525 

19 .  Twisted  stomach  worms  {Ilsemonchus  contortus) 526 

20.  Embryo  of  twisted  stomach  worm  {Exmonchus  contortus)  coiled  on  tip 

of  grass  blade 527 

21.  A  drenching  tube  made  from  an  ordinary  tin  funnel,  a  piece  of  rubber 

hose,  and  a  piece  of  brass  pipe 527 

22.  Piece  of  lining  of  fourth  stomach  showing  cysts  of  the  encysted  stomach 

worm  {Ostertagia  ostertagi) 528 

23.  A  tapeworm  ( Moniezia  planissima)  which  infests  cattle 529 

24.  The  common  liver  fluke  {Fasciola  hepatica) 531 

25.  The  large  American  fluke  {Fusciola  magna) 531 

26.  Portion  of  grass  stalk  bearing  three  encysted  cercari«e  of  the  common 

liver  fluke  ( Fasciola  hepatica) 532 

27.  Hydatids  (Echinococcus  granulosus)  in  portion  of  hog's  liver 533 

28.  Thin-necked  bladder  worm  {Tsenia  hydatigena)  from  abdominal  cavity 

of  a  steer 534 

29.  Lung  worms  {Dictyocaulus  viviparus)  of  cattle 535 


SPECIAL  REPORT 

ON 

DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 


ADMINISTRATION   OF   MEDICINES. 

By  Leonakd  Pearson,  B.  S.,  V.  M.  D. 

Medicines  may  be  administered  to  cattle  in  many  vrajs.  The  chan- 
nel and  method  of  administration  depend  on  whether  a  general  or 
local  effect  is  desired,  the  condition  of  the  animal,  and  the  nature  of 
the  medicine  that  is  to  be  given.  The  easiest  method,  and  therefore 
the  most  common,  is  to  give  ordinary  remedies  by  the  mouth  with 
the  food,  with  di'ink,  or  separately.  There  are,  however,  some  condi- 
tions in  which  medicines  administered  in  this  way  will  not  act 
promptly  enough,  or  wherein  a  desired  effect  of  the  medicine  on  a 
distant  part  of  the  body  is  wholly  lacking  unless  it  is  applied  in  some 
other  way. 

The  various  methods  of  administering  medicines  to  cattle  will  be 
considered  below. 

By  the  mouth. — The  simplest  way  to  give  medicines  b}^  the  mouth 
is  to  mix  them  with  the  food  or  water.  This  can  be  done  when  the 
medicine  is  in  the  form  of  a  powder  or  fluid,  if  but  a  small  quantity 
is  to  be  given,  if  it  does  not  have  a  taste  that  is  disagreeable  to  the 
animal  and  is  not  so  irritant  as  to  injure  the  lining  membranes  of  the 
mouth  and  throat. 

The  usual  method  of  administering  bulky  or  unpalatable  doses  is  to 
mix  them  with  a  fluid  vehicle,  such  as  water,  milk,  molasses,  or  beer, 
and  give  from  a  bottle.  A  dose  given  in  this  way  is  known  as  a 
"  drench.-'  In  administering  a  drench  the  head  of  the  animal  should 
be  elevated  a  little  by  an  assistant.  This  is  best  accomplished  when 
standing  on  the  left  side  of  the  cow's  head  and  by  grasping  the  nose 
with  the  thumb  and  fingers  of  the  right  hand  inserted  in  the  nostrils ; 
with  the  left  hand  beneath  the  chin  the  head  is  further  raised  and 
supported.  If  the  animal  is  unruly,  it  may  be  tied  in  a  stall  or  placed 
in  a  stanchion.  The  medicine  can  now  be  poured  into  the  mouth  by 
inserting  the  neck  of  the  bottle  between  the  lips  on  the  right  side. 
Care  must  be  taken  to  avoid  getting  the  bottle  between  the  back  teeth. 

7 


8  DISEASES   OP    CATTLE. 

The  mouth  of  the  bottle  should  be  inserted  as  far  as  the  middle  of 
the  tongue  and  the  contents  poured  slowh-.  If  the  cow  coughs,  the 
head  must  at  once  be  lowered  to  permit  the  fluid  to  escape  from  the 
larynx.  If  medicine  is  given  during  coughing,  some  of  the  dose  may- 
pass  down  the  windpipe  to  the  lungs  and  cause  a  severe  or  a  fatal 
pneumonia.  This  is  especially  to  be  guarded  against  when  the 
throat  is  partly  paralyzed  or  insensitive,  as  in  parturient  paresis 
(milk  fever).  In  this  disease  it  has  often  happened  that  drenches 
have  been  poured  into  the  lungs,  thus  killing  the  cow. 

The  quantity  of  fluid  to  be  given  in  a  drench  depends  upon  the 
effect  desired  and  the  nature  of  the  medicine.  In  impactions  of 
the  stomach  very  large  quantities  of  fluid  may  be  given — as  much  as 
a  gallon  or  several  gallons  at  a  time.  Usually,  however,  it  is  not 
customary  or  desirable  to  give  more  than  from  1  to  2  quarts  at  a  dose, 
and  not  more  than  a  pint  unless  it  is  necessary  on  account  of  the 
irritant  quality  of  the  drug  that  has  to  be  shielded  Avith  a  large 
quantity  of  the  vehicle. 

Soluble  medicines  should  be  completely  dissolved  before  they  are 
given;  insoluble  ones  should  be  finely  divided  by  powdering  or  by 
shaking,  and  should  be  well  agitated  and  mixed  immediately  before 
they  are  given.  In  the  latter  case  a  menstruum  with  considerable 
body,  such  as  molasses  or  flaxseed  tea  or  milk,  wdll  help  to  hold  solids 
or  oils  in  suspension  until  swallowed. 

Balls  are  large  pills  adapted  for  the  larger  animals.  Powders  or 
gums  are  sometimes,  mixed  with  an  adhesive  substance  and  rolled 
into  balls  for  the  purpose  of  convenience  of  administration.  Balls 
are  not  used  so  much  and  are  not  so  well  adapted  to  the  medication 
of  cattle  as  of  horses.  The  process  of  solution  is  slower  in  the  paunch 
of  a  cow  than  in  the  stomach  of  a  horse;  if  the  cow  is  so  sick  as 
to  have  stopped  ruminating,  a  ball  may  get  covered  up  and  lost 
in  the  mass  of  material  in  the  paunch  and  so  lie  for  days,  producing 
no  effect  whatever. 

Capsules  are  shells  or  envelopes  made  of  soluble  gelatin  in  which 
powders  or  liquids  may  be  inclosed.  Capsules  and  balls  are  adminis- 
tered by  being  placed  on  the  tongue  Avell  back  in  the  mouth  while 
the  tongue  is  drawn  forward  and  the  mouth  is  held  open  by  a  block 
of  wood  between  the  back  teeth.  The  ball  should  be  dropped,  the 
tongue  released,  and  the  block  removed  as  nearly  simultaneously  as 
possible,  so  that  the  backward  carriage  of  the  tongue  will  throw  the 
ball  into  the  throat  and  lead  to  its  being  swallowed.  In  introducing 
the  ball  care  must  be  taken  to  avoid  having  tlie  hand  cut  or  crushed. 
After  a  little  experience  it  is  possible  to  do  away  with  the  block  of 
wood. 

By  the  stomach. — Medicines  are  introduced  directly  into  the  first 
stomach  by  the  use  of  an  esophageal  tube  or  through  the  cannula  of  a 


ADMINISTRATION    OF    MEDICINES.  9 

trocar  passed  into  the  paunch  through  the  side.  This  method  is  used 
in  the  treatment  of  diseases  of  digestion. 

By  the  kectum. — Medicines  are  usually  administered  by  the  rec- 
tum for  the  purj)ose  of  controlling  the  bowels  and  for  the  treatment 
of  local  diseases.  Sometimes,  however,  medicines  that  have  a  gen- 
eral effect  are  given  in  this  Avay  when,  for  any  reason,  it  is  not  possi- 
ble or  convenient  to  give  them  through  the  mouth.  Only  drugs  that 
are  readily  absorbed  should  be  given  per  rectum  for  a  general  effect 
and  in  somewhat  larger  dose  or  more  frequently  than  when  given  by 
the  mouth.  Such  stimulants  as  ether,  alcohol,  or  the  aromatic  spirits 
of  ammonia,  diluted  with  from  four  to  six  times  their  bulk  of  warm 
Avater,  may  be  used  in  this  way. 

Kectal  injections,  or  enemata,  are  used  in  the  treatment  of  consti- 
pation. If  it  is  the  purpose  of  the  injection  to  soften  hardened  fecal 
masses,  the  water  should  be  comfortably  warm  and  may  have  a 
little  clean  soap  in  it.  If  it  is  the  purpose  of  the  injection  to  stimu- 
late sluggish  bowels  to  contraction,  the  water  may  be  cold. 

In  giving  rectal  injections  a  rectal  syringe  may  be  used,  or,  better, 
a  piece  of  one-half  to  three-quarter  inch  rubber  hose  5  feet  long  with 
a  tin  funnel  attached  to  one  end.  The  hose  is  soaped  or  oiled  and 
introduced  slowly  and  gently  into  the  rectum  2  or  3  feet.  The  fluid 
is  then  slov\'ly  poured  into  the  funnel  and  allowed  to  gravitate  into 
the  rectum.  The  same  apparatus  may  be  used  for  feeding  hy  the 
rectum. 

By  the  vagina. — Medicines  are  inserted  into  the  vagina,  and 
through  the  vagina  into  the  womb,  in  a  manner  similar  to  that  of 
rectal  administration.  Most  of  the  medication  made  use  of  in  this 
way  is  for  the  local  treatment  of  these  organs.  Following  calving, 
during  outbreaks  of  abortion,  and  in  an  infectious  disease  of  the 
vagina,  such  injections  become  necessary. 

By  the  udder. — Injections  into  the  udder  are  now  regularly  made 
in  the  treatment  of  parturient  paresis  (milk  fever).  For  this  pur- 
pose a  1  per  cent  solution  of  iodic!  of  potassium  is  commonly  emplojxd, 
although  some  other  solutions  and  oxygen  gas  are  also  used.  In  mak- 
ing this  injection  so  many  precautions  are  necessarj^  in  relation  to 
the  sterilization  of  the  apparatus  and  the  teats  and  skin  that  this 
work  should  be  left  to  a  skilled  veterinarian.  The  introduction  of 
even  a  minute  quantity  of  infectious  dirt  may  cause  the  loss  of  the 
udder.  For  making  this  injection  one  may  use  one  of  the  prepared 
sets  of  apparatus  or  a  milking  tube  and  funnel  connected  by  a  piece 
of  small  rubber  hose.  The  apparatus  should  be  boiled  and  kept 
wrapped  in  a  clean  towel  until  needed.  The  udder  and  teats  and 
the  hands  of  the  operator  must  be  well  disinfected,  and  the  solution 
must  be  freshly  made  Avitli  recently  boiled  water  kept  in  a  sterile 
bottle.    The  udder  should  be  emptied  of  milk  before  the  injection  is 


10  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

made.  After  all  these  precautions  have  been  observed  the  milking 
tube  may  be  inserted  and  through  it  one-half  pint  of  solution  intro- 
duced by  gravity  air  pressure  or  by  syringe.  There  is  practically 
no  danger  in  this  mode  of  treatment  if  it  is  properly  carried  out. 

Injections  into  the  udder  are  sometimes  made  in  the  treatment  of 
garget,  but  so  far  with  indifferent  success. 

By  the  nostrils. — An  animal  may  be  caused  to  inhale  medicine 
in  the  form  of  gas  or  vapor  or  to  snuff  up  a  fine  powder.  Sometimes, 
for  the  purpose  of  local  treatment,  fluids  are  injected  into  the  nose. 

A  medicine  inhaled  may  have  either  a  local  or  a  general  effect. 

Medicated  steam,  carrying  the  volatile  products  of  compound 
cresol  solution,  carbolic  acid,  balsam  of  Peru,  compound  tincture  of 
benzoin,  tincture  of  iodin,  etc.,  may  be  liberated  beneath  the  nostrils 
of  a  cow  so  that  she  must  inhale  these  soothing  vapors;  but  such 
treatment  is  not  so  common  for  cattle  as  for  horses.  In  producing 
general  anesthesia,  or  insensibility  to  pain,  the  vapor  of  chloroform 
or  ether  is  administered  by  the  nostrils.  As  a  preliminary  to  this  it 
is  necessary  to  cast  and  confine  the  animal.  Great  care  is  necessary 
to  avoid  complete  stoppage  of  the  heart  or  breathing. 

By  the  trachea. — Medicines  are  injected  into  the  trachea,  or  wind- 
pipe, in  the  treatment  of  some  forms  of  diseases  of  the  lungs,  and 
especially *in  that  form  of  bronchitis  or  pneumonia  that  is  caused  by 
lungworms.  For  this  injection  a  large  hypodermic  syringe,  fitted 
with  a  very  thick,  strong  needle,  is  used.  The  needle  is  to  be  inserted 
about  the  middle  of  the  neck  and  between  the  cartilaginous  rings  of 
the  trachea. 

By  the  skin. — Although  a  number  of  drugs,  notably  mercury,  are 
so  readily  absorbed  by  the  skin  of  cattle  as  to  render  poisoning  easy, 
medicines  are  not  given  in  this  way  for  their  general  or  constitutional 
but  only  for  their  local  effect. 

Diseases  of  the  skin  and  superficial  parasites  are  treated  or  de- 
stroyed by  applications  in  the  forms  of  washes,  ointments,  dips,  and 
powders.  Liniments  and  lotions  are  applied  to  the  skin  for  the  relief 
of  some  near-lying  part,  such  as  a  muscle,  tendon,  or  joint.  Blisters 
are  applied  to  the  skin  for  the  purpose  of  obtaining  the  effect  of 
counterirritation  upon  a  neighboring  region  or  organ.  Cold  water 
may  be  applied  to  the  skin  to  reduce  the  temperature  and  to  diminish 
congestion  or  inflammation  in  a  superficial  area  or  to  reduce  the 
temperature  of  the  whole  body.  High  fever  and  heat  strokes  are 
treated  in  this  way. 

By  the  tissue  beneath  the  skin. — Hypodermic  or  subcutaneous 
injections  are  often  made  for  the  purpose  of  introducing  a  drug, 
reagent,  or  vaccine  directly  into  the  connecting  tissue  beneath  the 
skin.     Introduced  in  this  way,  the  substance  is  quickly  absorbed, 


ADMINISTRATION"    OF    MEDICINES.  11 

none  of  it  is  lost,  and  its  whole  effect  is  obtained,  often  Avitliin  a  few 
minutes. 

There  are  numerous  precautions  necessary  in  making  a  subcutane- 
ous injection,  most  of  which  have  to  do  with  cleansing  and  steriliza- 
tion. It  is  also  important  to  select  a  proper  site  for  the  injection,  so 
that  blood  vessels,  joints,  and  superficial  nerves,  organs,  or  cavities 
may  all  be  avoided.  With  due  regard  for  the  necessary  precautions, 
there  is  practically  no  danger  in  such  an  injection,  but  it  should  be 
attempted  only  by  those  who  are  able  to  carry  it  through  in  a  surgi- 
cally clean  way.  Only  certain  drugs  can  be  given  subcutaneously, 
and  dosage  must  be  accurately  graduated. 

By  the  veins. — Certain  medicines  act  most  promptly  and  surely 
wdien  introduced  directl}^  into  the  blood  by  injecting  them  into  a  vein, 
usually  the  jugular.  Some  vaccines  and  antitoxins  are  administered 
in  this  way.  Intravenous  injection  should  be  practiced  only  by 
experienced  veterinarians. 


DISEASES  OF  THE  DIGESTIVE  ORGANS. 

By  A.  J.  MuEEAY,  il.  R.  C.  V.  S. 

[Revised  by  R.  W.  llrCKMAX,  V.  M.  D.] 

CHARACTER  OF  FEEDS  AND  FEEDING. 

Diseases  of  the  digestive  organs  are  very  coiiinion  among  cattle, 
and  may  often  be  traced  to  defects  in  feeding.  The  first  three  stom- 
achs of  the  larger  ruminants  hold  the  feed  for  a  long  time,  during 
>vhich  period  it  is  subjected  to  macerating,  mixing,  and  straining 
processes  in  preparation  for  entrance  into  the  fourth  or  true  stomach. 
The  straining  is  accomplished  through  the  mediuin  of  the  manyplies 
or  book,  vrhile  the  paunch,  or  rumen,  -u'ith  its  adjunct,  the  waterbag, 
is  concerned  in  the  macerating,  kneading,  and  mixing,  as  well  as  in 
regurgitation  for  rumination  or  the  chewing  of  the  cud.  The  action 
of  the  first  three  stomachs  is  merely  preparatory  to  digestion.  Thus! 
it  would  seem  that  as  a  result  of  their  complex  anatomical  and  func- 
tional arrangement  the  feed  of  the  ox,  Avhen  of  good  equality  and 
wholesome,  is  in  the  most  favorable  condition  possible  for  the  diges- 
tive process  when  it  reaches  the  fourth  stomach,  where  true  diges- 
tion first  takes  place.  The  location  and  arrangement  of  the  stomachs 
are  shown  in  Plates  I  and  II. 

If  the  feed  is  of  improper  character,  or  is  so  given  that  it  can  not 
be  cared  for  by  the  animal  in  a  normal  way,  false  fermentations 
arise,  causing  indigestion,  and  possibly,  later, '  organic  disease.  In 
feeding  cattle  there  are  a  number  of  important  considerations  apart 
from  the  economy  of  the  ration,  and  some  of  these  are  noted  below. 

Feeds  must  not  be  damaged  by  exposure  to  the  weather,  by  frost, 
by  molds,  or  by  deleterious  fermentations. 

Damaged  feeds  retard  or  prevent  digestion,  and  sometimes  they 
contain  or  cause  to  be  generated  substances  that  irritate  the  digestive 
tract,  or  are  distinctly  poisonous  to  the  animal.  For  example,  hay 
that  Avas  rained  on  severely  during  curing  has  not  only  lost  a  part  of 
its  nutritive  value  through  a  washing-out  process,  but  what  renuiins 
is  not  so  readily  available  as  in  good  hay.  Eoots  that  have  been 
frozen  are  likely  to  irritate  and  injure  the  digestive  tract.  Grass 
eaten  with  frost  on  it  may  cause  severe  indigestion.  All  moldy  feeds 
are  not  injurious,  for  some  molds  appear  to  have  no  influence  on 
the  process  of  digestion,  but  those  of  other  species  may  not  only 
retard  digestion  and  cause  local  injury  to  the  digestive  organs,  but 
may  cause  general  poisoning  of  a  severe  and  fatal  type. 
12 


DISEASES   OF    THE   DIGESTIVE    OEGANS.  13 

The  following  molds  have  been  shown  (Dammann)  to  be  clangor- 
ous in  respect  to  the  production  of  the  morbid  conditions  enumer- 
ated : 

TiUetia  caries  grows  chiefly  in  wheat  and  may  be  found  with  the 
grain,  thus  appearing  in  the  bran  or  meal.  It  causes  paralysis  of  the 
throat  and  spinal  cord  and  irritation  of  the  digestive  tract.  The 
rusts,  such  as  Puceinia  graminis,  P.  strammis,  P.  CoroTiafa,  and  P. 
amndinacea^  cause  colic  and  diarrhea,  and  in  some  cases  partial 
paralj^sis  of  the  throat.  The  rusts  that  occur  on  clovers,  beans,  and 
peas  cause  very  severe  irritation  of  the  lining  membrane  of  the  mouth 
and  throat,  resulting  sometimes  in  gangrene  of  this  tissue. 

Polijclesmus  exitans  grows  on  the  leaves  of  rape  and  turnips,  ap- 
pearing in  early  summer.  This  fungus  ■  is  very  irritating  to  the 
mouths  and  feet  of  cattle,  causing  severe  inflammation  and  the  for- 
mation of  a  false  membrane.  In  some  instances  this  condition  has 
been  mistaken  for  foot-and-mouth  disease,  but  it  can  be  differentiated 
by  the  absence  of  the  blister  that  is  characteristic  of  that  disease 
and  by  the  further  fact  that  it  is  nontransmissible. 

Polytrinc-ium  trifoVd^  which  grows  on  clover,  causing  it  to  become 
black,  causes  severe  irritation  of  the  stomach. and  intestines  of  cattle 
feeding  upon  it. 

Feeds  must  not  contain  too  large  a  proportion  of  woody  fiber  or 
of  indigestible  substances.  If  the  dry  matter  ingested  or  the  bulk 
of  the  feed  is  very  great  on  account  of  the  small  proportion  of 
digestible  matter,  it  is  impossible  for  the  great  mass  to  be  moistened 
properly  with  and  attacked  by  the  digestive  juices.  In  consequence 
of  this,  abnormal  fermentations  arise,  causing  indigestion  and  irri- 
tation of  the  digestive  organs.  On  the  other  hand,  a  ration  too  con- 
centrated, and  especially  too  rich  in  protein,  is  not  suitable,  because, 
after  a  meal,  the  animal  must  have  a  certain  feeling  of  fullness  in 
order  to  be  comfortable  and  quiet,  and  the  digestive  organs  require  a 
relatively  large  volume  of  contents  to  fill  them  to  the  point  where 
secretion  is  properly  stimulated  and  their  activity  is  most  efficient. 
If  too  much  protein  is  in  the  ration  there  is  a  waste  of  expensive 
feed,  and  the  tendency  is  for  the  animal  to  become  thin.  It  is  evi- 
dent that  a  cow  can  not  thrive  on  concentrated  feeds  alone,  even 
though  these  contain  in  assimilable  form  all  the  nutritive  materials 
needed  for  perfect  support.  It  is  because  bulk  is  necessary  that  the 
standard  of  about  25  pounds  of  dry  matter  per  cow  per  day  has 
been  reached  by  experimenters.  There  is  no  objection  to  feeding 
grain  or  meal  separately  to  a  cow,  provided  enough  bulky  feed  is 
fed  at  another  time  in  the  day  to  keep  the  digestive  tract  sufficiently 
distended. 

In  changing  the  ration,  and  especially  in  making  radical  changes, 
as  at  the  beginning  and  the  end  of  the  pasturing  season,  the  change 


14  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

should  be  made  gradually,  so  that  the  digestive  organs  may  accom- 
modate themselves  to  it.  After  the  digestive  organs  and  juices  have 
from  long  practice  become  adjusted  to  the  digestion  of  a  certain  feed, 
which  is  then  suddenly  withheld  and  another  of  quite  different  char- 
acter and  properties  is  substituted,  the  second  feed  is  not  well  di- 
gested ;  it  may  even  irritate  the  digestive  canal.  It  is  often  observed 
that  cattle  lose  from  25  to  100  pounds  when  turned  on  pasture  from 
dry  stable  feed.  This  loss  can  readily  be  prevented  by  not  shocking 
the  digestive  organs  by  a  sudden  change  of  diet. 

Regularity  in  feeding  has  much  to  do  Avith  the  utilization  of  the 
ration,  and  gross  irregularity  may  cause  indigestion  and  serious 
disease. 

Water  for  live  stock  should  be  as  free  from  contamination  and  as 
nearly  pure  as  that  used  for  household  purposes.  When  practicable 
it  is  well  to  warm  the  water  in  the  winter  to  about  50°  F.  and  allow 
cattle  to  drink  often. 

DISEASES  OF  THE  MOUTH. 

WOUNDS  AND  CONTUSIONS  OF  THE  LIPS.  AND  SNAKE  BITE. 

The  lips  may  become  inflamed  from  contusions,  which  are  some- 
times produced  by  a  blow  from  the  horns  of  another  animal,  or,  in  the 
case  of  working  oxen,  by  a  blow  from  the  driver.  "^^Hiile  cattle  are 
grazing,  more  especially  when  they  are  in  woods,  they  may  be  bitten 
in  the  lips  by  insects  or  serpents. 

Symptoms. — As  a  result  of  a  contusion  the  lips  become  thick  and 
swollen,  and  if  treatment  is  neglected  the  swelling  may  become  hard 
and  indurated,  or  an  abscess  may  form.  This  condition  renders  it 
difficult  for  the  animal  to  get  food  into  its  mouth,  on  account  of  the 
lips  having  lost  their  natural  flexibility.  In  such  cases  an  ox  will  use 
his  tongue  more  in  the  prehension  of  food  to  make  up  for  the  inca- 
pacity of  the  lips.  In  cases  of  snake  bite  the  swelling  is  soft  or  puffy 
and  its  limits  are  not  well  defined. 

Treatment. — When  we  have  to  deal  with  a  bruise,  the  affected  part 
should  be  bathed  with  hot  water  two  or  three  times  daily.  In  recent 
cases  no  other  treatment  will  be  required,  but  if  the  swelling  is  not 
recent  and  has  become  hard  or  indurated,  then  the  swollen  part 
should  be  treated  each  day  by  painting  it  with  tincture  of  iodin.  In 
snake  bite  a  straight  incision  penetrating  into  the  flesh  or  muscle 
should  be  made  across  the  center  of  the  swelling  and  in  the  direction 
of  the  long  axis  of  the  face.  After  this  has  been  done  a  small  wad  of 
cotton  batting  should  be  pressed  against  the  wounds  until  the  bleed- 
ing has  almost  stopped.  Afterwards  the  following  lotion  may  be 
applied  to  the  wounds  several  times  a  day:  Permanganate  of  potas- 
sium, half  a  dram ;  distilled  water,  1  pint.    As  snake  bites  are  usually 


DISEASES   OF   THE   DIGESTIVE    ORGAN'S.  15 

attended  with  considerable  depression,  Avhicli  may  terminate  in  stu- 
por, it  is  advisable  to  give  occasional  doses  of*  whisky.  Half  a  pint 
of  whisky  mixed  Avitli  a  pint  of  water  should  be  given,  and  the  dose 
should  be  repeated  in  half  an  hour  if  the  animal  is  sinking  into  a 
stupefied  and  unconscious  condition.  The  repetition  of  the  dose 
must  depend  on  the  symptoms  which  the  animal  shows.  It  must  be 
borne  in  mind  that  the  object  of  treatment  is  to  ward  off  the  stupor, 
which  is  one  of  the  results  of  snake  bite,  and  that  in  administering 
whisky  the  object  is  to  produce  a  stimulating  and  not  an  intoxicating 
or  stupefying  effect.  The  swelling  from  an  insect  bite  should  be 
bathed  with  ammonia  Avater  as  soon  as  noticed  and  then  treated  with 
frequent  applications  of  hot  water. 

SALIVATION. 

Salivation  is  a  symptom  of  some  general  or  local  disorder.  It  may 
be  a  symptom  of  a  general  disease,  such  as  rabies  or  foot-and-mouth 
disease,  or  it  maj'  be  a  purely  local  trouble,  as  when  copious  secretion 
of  the  salivary  glands  is  produced  by  the  eating  of  irritating  plants, 
such  as  Avild  mustard.  AVlien  saliva  is  observed  to  dribble  from  the 
mouth,  that  part  should  be  carefully  examined  by  introducing  into 
the  mouth  an  instrument  like  a  balling  iron,  or,  if  one  is  not  at  hand, 
by  grasping  the  tongue  and  partially  withdrawing  it  from  the  mouth, 
and  by  placing  a  block  of  wood  between  the  back  teeth,  while  all 
parts  of  the  mouth  are  exposed  to  a  good  light,  so  that  the  presence 
of  any  foreign  substance  may  be  detected.  The  cause  is  sometimes 
found  to  be  a  short  piece  of  wood  becoming  fixed  on  the  palate,  its 
two  ends  resting  on  the  upper  molar  teeth  of  each  side ;  or  it  may  be 
a  needle,  thorn,  or  splinter  of  Avood  embedded  in  the  tongue.  Some- 
times a  sharp  piece  of  tin  or  other  metal  may  become  partially  em- 
bedded in  the  inner  surface  of  the  cheek.  Hay  occasionally  possesses 
some  quality,  usually  dependent  upon  its  having  heated  in  the  mow 
or  having  become  moldy,  Avhich  produces  salivation.  Second-crop 
clover  and  some  irritant  weeds  in  the  pasture  or  forage  maj?"  cause 
salivation.  Cattle  rubbed  Avith  mercurial  ointment  may  swallow 
enough  mercury  in  licking  themselves  to  bring  about  the  same  result. 
(See  "Mercury  poisoning,"  p.  57.)  Such  cases,  of  course,  arise  from 
the  constitutional  action  of  mercury,  and.  on  account  of  the  common 
habit  which  the  animals  have  of  licking  themselves,  indicate  the 
danger  of  using  such  preparation  externally.  Mercury  is  also  readily 
absorbed  through  the  skin,  and  as  cattle  are  A'ery  susceptible  to  its 
action  it  is  thus  easy  for  them  to  be  poisoned  by  it  even  Avithout  lick- 
ing it  from  the  surface.  Cases  of  mercurial  poisoning  sometimes 
folloAv  disinfection  of  cattle  stables  Avith  the  usual  1  to  1.000  solution 
of  mercuric  chlorid. 


16  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

Treatment. — If  salivation  depends  on  the  irritation  and  inflamma- 
tion set  np  by  the  ingesfion  of  acrid  phints.  or  forage  pcG3essing  some 
peculiar  stimulating  property,  the  feed  must  be  changed,  and  a  lotion 
composed  of  an  ounce  of  poATdered  alum  dissolved  in  a  quart  of  water 
may  be  syringed  into  the  mouth  twice  a  day,  using  half  a  pint  of  the 
solution  each  time.  If,  however,  the  salivation  is  due  to  the  presence 
cf  a  thorn,  splinter  of  wood,  or  any  other  foreign  substance  em- 
bedded in  the  cheek  or  tongue,  the  offending  object  should  be  re- 
moved and  the  mouth  washed  occasionally  with  a  weak  solution  (2 
per  cent)  of  carbolic  acid  and  tepid  water,  AVhen  salivation  is  pro- 
duced by  mercurial  poisoning  or  by  foot-and-mouth  disease,  the 
treatment  appropriate  to  those  general  conditions  of  the  system,  as 
well  as  the  local  treatment  should  be  applied.  (For  information 
about  foot-and-mouth  disease  see  p.  3S1.) 

IRREGULARITIES  OF  THE  TEETH. 

Irregularities  of  the  teeth  may  be  occasioned  by  the  unequal  wear- 
ing of  some  of  the  teeth  or  b}^  some  of  the  incisors  being  broken,  which 
may  happen  when  cattle  are  pastured  on  sandy  or  gravelly  soil.  The 
molar  teeth  ma}''  also  sIioav  irregular  wear  from  similar  causes,  or 
from  a  disease  or  malformation  of  the  jaw.  Their  edges  may  become 
sharp,  or  it  ma}^  happen  that  a  molar  tooth  has  been  accidentally 
fractured.  It  may  also  occur  that  a  supernumerary  tooth  has  devel- 
oped in  an  unusual  position,  and  that  it  interferes  with  the  natural 
and  regular  mastication  of  the  feed. 

Treatment. — The  mouth  may  be  examined  by  grasping  the  animal's 
tongue  with  one  hand  and  partially  withdrawing  it  from  the  mouth, 
so  as  to  expose  the  incisor  and  molar  teeth  to  inspection.  '\^lien  it 
is  desired,  however,  to  examine  the  molar  teeth  with  the  fingers,  so  as 
to  obtain  a  better  idea  of  their  condition,  an  instrument  like  the 
balling  iron  which  is  used  for  the  horse  should  be  introduced  into 
the  mouth,  so  as  to  separate  the  jav\-s  and  kefp  them  apart  while  the 
examination  is  being  made.  Any  sharp  edges  of  the  molars  must  be 
removed  hy  the  tooth  rasp,  such  as  is  used  for  horses.  Any  super- 
numerary tooth  which  interferes  with  mastication  or  am'  tooth  which 
is  fractured  or  loose  should  be  extracted.  In  performing  such  opera- 
tions it  is  desirable  to  throw,  or  cast,  the  animal,  and  to  have  its 
head  held  securely,  so  as  to  enable  the  operator  to  do  what  is  neces- 
ii'XYj  without  difficulty. 

CARIES  OR  DECAY  OF  THE  TEETH. 

The  presence  of  caries  may  be  suspected  if  the  mouth  exhales  a  bad 
odor  and  if  the  animal  during  mastication  occasionally  stops  as  if  it 
were  in  pain.  The  existence  of  caries  in  a  molar  tooth  may  be  ascer- 
tained by  examining  the  mouth  in  the  manner  already  described.     If 


DISEASES   OF    THE   DIGESTIVE    OEGANS.  17 

one  of  the  molars  is  found  to  be  carious,  it  should  be  extracted. 
When  the  crown  of  the  tooth  has  been  destroyed  and  only  the  stump 
or  root  is  left,  extraction  is  impracticable.  In  case  the  animal  has 
special  value  the  root  stumps  may  be  removed  by  a  veterinarian  by 
the  operation  of  trephining;  otherwise,  it  is  best  to  sell  the  animal  to 
the  butcher. 

ACTINOMYCOSIS    OF   THE   JAWBONES    (BIG    JAW    OR    LUMPY    JAW). 

[See  Actinomycosis,  p.  438.] 

INFLAMMATION   OF   MUCOUS   MEMBRANE    OF   MOUTH    (STOMATITIS). 

The  membrane  of  the  mouth  majr  become  inflamed  by  eating  some 
irritating  substance  or  plant,  or  little  vesicles  may  form  in  the 
mouths  of  calves  when  the}^  are  affected  with  indigestion,  constitu- 
ting what  is  termed  aphtha, 

Syrnptoms. — The  saliva  dribbles  from  tlie  mouth,  and  when  the 
mouth  is  examined  the  surface  of  the  tongue  and  other  parts  appear 
red  and  inflamed.  When  young  animals  are  affected  Avith  the  form 
of  disease  termed  aphtha,  small  red  elevations  are  observed  on  the 
tongue  and  other  parts  of  the  mouth,  having  little  white  points  on 
their  centers,  which  consists  of  the  epithelium  of  the  mucous  mem- 
brane raised  into  vesicles.  These  Avhite  patches  are  succeeded  by 
ulcerated  surfaces,  which  are  caused  by  the  shedding  of  the  white 
patches  of  epithelium. 

Treatment. — When  there  is  merely  a  reddened  and  inflamed  con- 
dition of  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth,  it  will  suffice  to  syringe 
it  out  several  times  a  day  with  4  ounces  of  the  following  solution: 
Alum,  1  ounce;  water,  2  pints.  When  the  edges  of  the  tongue  and 
other  parts  of  the  mouth  are  studded  with  ulcers,  they  should  be 
painted  over  once  a  day  with  the  following  solution  until  the  affected 
surface  is  healed:  Permanganate  of  potassium,  20  grains;  water,  1 
ounce.  When  indigestion  is  associated  with  an  ulcerated  condition 
of  the  mouth,  separate  treatment  is  required. 

ULCERATIVE  STOMATITIS   (OR  ULCERS  IN  THE  MOUTHS  OF  YOUNG   CALVES). 

[See  Necrotic  stomatitis,  p.  462.] 

MYCOTIC  STOMATITIS   (SORE  MOUTH). 

[See  p.  537.] 

INDURATION  OF  THE  TONGUE    (ACTINOMYCOSIS). 

[See  Actinomycosis,  p.  438.] 

DISEASES  OF  THE  PHARYNX  AND  GULLET. 

PHARYNGITIS   (SORE  THROAT). 

Pharyngitis  is  an  inflammation  of  the  mucous  membrane  lining  the 
pharynx.     It  is  frequently  associated  with  inflammatory  diseases  of 
the  respiratory  tract,  such  as  laryngitis  and  bronchitis  or  pleurisy. 
33071°— 16 — -2 


18  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

Synvptoiros. — The  muzzle  is  dry  and  the  saliva  dribbles  from  the  cor- 
ners of  the  mouth :  the  animal  swallows  with  difficulty  or  not  at  all, 
and  holds  its  neck  in  a  stiff,  straight  position,  moving  it  as  little  as 
possible.  The  eyelids  are  half  closed,  the  white  of  the  eye  is  bloodshot, 
and  the  animai  occasionally  grinds  its  teeth.  After  masticating  the 
feed  the  animal  drops  it  out  of  its  mouth  as  if  to  avoid  the  pain  of 
swallowing,  and  also  evinces  pain  when  pressure  is  applied  externally 
on  the  pharynx  and  tries  to  prevent  the  pressure  from  being  applied. 

Causes. — Pharyngitis  may  be  produced  by  a  sudden  cooling  of  the 
surface  of  the  body,  as  when  cattle  are  exposed  to  a  cold  wind  or  a 
cold  rain ;  or  by  swallowing  irritant  substances. 

Treatment. — The  throat  should  be  syringed  three  times  a  day  with 
an  ounce  of  the  following  solution :  Nitrate  of  silver,  1^  drams ;  dis- 
tilled water,  1  pint.  Bland  and  soothing  drinks,  such  as  linseed  tea 
or  oatmeal  and  water  should  occasionally  be  offered.  Diet  should 
consist  of  soft  food,  such  as  bran  mashes  with  a  little  linseed  meal 
mixed  in  them.  Dry  hay  and  fodder  should  not  be  given.  Fresh, 
green  grass  or  sound  ensilage  may  be  fed  in  small  quantities.  The 
upper  part  of  the  throat  and  the  space  between  the  jaws  should  be 
well  rubbed  once  a  day  with  the  following  liniment:  Liquor  am- 
monia fortior,  4  ounces;  oil  of  turpentine,  4  ounces;  olive  oil,  4 
ounces;  mix.  "V^Tien  evidence  of  blistering  appears  the  application 
of  the  liniment  should  be  stopped  and  the  skin  anointed  with  vase- 
line. Under  the  treatment  described  above  the  inflammation  of  the 
throat  will  gradually  subside  and  the  animal  will  be  able  to  swallow 
as  usual  in  five  or  six  days.  "VVe  need  hardly  say  that  during  its 
treatment  the  sick  animal  should  be  kept  in  a  comfortable  stable. 

PAROTITIS. 

Inflammation  of  the  parotid  gland  may  arise  from  the  inflamma- 
tion extending  to  it  when  an  ox  is  affected  with  pharyngitis  or  laryn- 
gitis, or  the  inflammation  may  commence  in  the  salivary  ducts  and 
may  depend  on  some  influence  the  nature  of  which  is  unknown. 
Parotitis  s^'metimes  arises  from  a  blow  or  contusion  severe  enough 
to  set  up  inflammation  in  the  structure  of  the  gland.  Tuberculosis 
and  actinomycosis  may  infrequently  be  characterized  by  the  lodg- 
ment of  their  parasitic  causes  in  the  parotid  glands,  in  which  case 
parotitis  maj'^  be  a  symptom  of  either  of  these  diseases. 

Symptoms. — There  is  an  elongated,  painful  swelling,  beginning  at 
the  base  of  the  ear  and  passing  downward  along  the  posterior  margin 
of  the  lower  jaw.  The  swelling  is  sometimes  limited  to  one  side,  and 
when  both  are  swollen  it  is  generally  larger  on  one  side  than  on  the 
other.  The  secretion  of  saliva  is  increased,  the  appetite  is  poor, 
the  neck  is  stiff,  so  that  it  is  painful  to  raise  the  head,  and  feed  is 
swallowed  with  difficulty.    In  many  cases  the  swelling  of  the  glands. 


DISEASES  OF   THE   DIGESTIVE   ORGAXS.  19 

when  submitted  to  jDroper  treatment,  disappears  in  a  comparatively 
short  time.  In  other  cases,  however,  they  remain  enlarged,  even 
after  the  animal  recovers  its  appetite.  In  tuberculosis,  lymphatic 
glands  beneath  the  parotid  glands  are  sometimes  enlarged,  thus 
causing  the  ajjpearance  of  enlarged  parotid  glands. 

Treatment. — A  warm  bran  poltice,  made  by  mixing  bran  with  a 
hot  2  per  cent  compound  cresol  solution  in  water,  should  be  applied 
on  the  swollen  gland  and  kept  in  place  by  means  of  a  bandage. 
Whenever  the  poultice  has  cooled  it  should  be  replaced  by  a  new 
one.  This  treatment  should  be  continued  until  the  pain  is  less  and 
the  SAvelling  is  reduced  or  until  there  is  evidence  of  pus  formation, 
which  ma}'  be  ascertained  by  examining  the  surface  of  the  gland  with 
the  fingers;  and  when,  on  pressing  any  part  of  the  surface,  it  is  found 
to  fluctuate  or  "  give,"  then  we  may  conclude  that  there  is  a  collection 
of  pus  at  that  place.  It  is  well  not  to  open  the  abscess  until  the 
fluctuation  is  well  marked,  as  at  this  stage  the  pus  or  matter  is  near 
the  surface  and  there  is  less  trouble  in  healing  the  wound  than  if  the 
pus  is  deep  seated.  The  abscess  should  be  opened  with  a  clean,  sharp 
knife.  The  poulticing  should  then  be  continued  for  two  or  three 
days,  but  the  form  of  the  poultice  should  be  changed,  by  replacing 
the  bran  with  absoi'bent  cotton  and  pouring  the  compound  cresol 
solution  on  the  cotton.  At  all  times  the  wound  should  be  kept  clean 
and  the  cavity  injected  once  or  twice  daily  with  a  solution  of  1  dram 
of  carbolic  acid  in  8  ounces  of  water.  Under  this  treatment  the  pus 
may  cease  and  the  wound  heal  without  complications.  Saliva  may 
issue  from  the  orifice  and  result  in  the  formation  of  a  salivary  fistula. 
This  requires  operative  treatment  b}^  a  qualified  veterinarian.  AMieii 
poulticing  fails  to  reduce  the  swelling  or  produce  softening,  the  in- 
flamed area  may  be  rubbed  once  daily  with  camphorated  oil,  com- 
pound iodin  ointment,  or  painted  twice  daily  with  Lugol's  solution 
of  iodin.  The  diet  should  be  as  recommended  under  Pharyngitis 
(p.  18). 

PHARYNGEAL  POLYPI. 

Tumors  form  not  infrequently  in  the  pharynx,  and  may  give  rise 
to  a  train  of  symptoms  varying  according  to  their  size  and  location. 
The  tumor  may  be  so  situated  that  by  shifting  its  position  a  little  it 
may  partiallj'^  obstruct  the  posterior  nares  (nostrils),  when,  of  course, 
it  will  render  nasal  breathing  very  noisy  and  labored.  In  another 
situation  its  partial  displacement  may  impede  the  entrance  of  air 
into  the  larj^nx.  In  almost  any  part  of  the  pharynx,  but  especially 
near  the  entrance  of  the  gullet,  tumors  interfere  with  the  act  of 
swallowing.  As  they  are  frequently  attached  to  the  wall  of  the 
pharynx  by  a  pedicel  or  stalk,  it  will  be  seen  that  they  may  readily 
be  displaced  in  different  directions  so  as  to  produce  the  symptoms 


20  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

before  described.  Enlarged  postpharyngeal  l^nnphatic  glands  are 
not  rare  in  tuberculosis,  and  by  pressing  upon  the  wall  of  the  pharynx 
and  restricting  the  lumen  of  this  organ  they  cause  difficulty  in  both 
breathing  and  swallowing.  Such  enlarged  glands  may  be  differ- 
entiated from  tumors  by  passing  the  hand  into  the  coav's  throat  after 
the  jaws  are  separated  by  a  suitable  speculum  or  gag. 

Treatment. — The  method  of  treatment  in  such  cases  is  to  sepa- 
rate the  animal's  jaws  with  an  instrument  termed  a  gag,  and  then, 
after  drawing  the  tongue  partiall}'^  forward,  to  pass  the  hand  into  the 
pharynx  and  to  twist  the  tumor  gently  from  its  attachment.  One 
veterinarian  who  has  had  considerable  practice  in  treating  this  form 
of  disease  scrapes  through  the  attachment  of  the  tumor  gradmilly 
with  his  thumb  nail.  When  the  attachment  is  too  strong  to  be 
severed  in  this  way  an  instrument  like  a  thimble,  but  possessing  a 
sharp  edge  at  the  end,  may  be  used  to  effect  the  same  purpose,  or 
the  base  of  the  tumor  may  be  severed  by  the  use  of  a  crushing  instru- 
ment known  as  an  ecraseur. 

CHOKING. 

Choking  usually  happens  from  attempting  to  swallow  too  large 
an  object,  such  as  a  turnip,  potato,  beet,  apple^  or  pear,  though  in 
rare  cases  it  may  occur  from  bran,  chaff,  or  some  other  finely  divided 
feed  lodging  in  and  filling  up  a  portion  of  the  gullet.  This  latter 
form  of  the  accident  is  most  likely  to  occur  in  animals  that  are 
greedy  feeders. 

Symptoms. — The  sj^mptoms  vary  somewhat  according  to  the  part 
of  the  gullet  or  throat  in  which  the  obstruction  is.  In  most  cases 
there  is  a  discharge  of  saliva  from  the  mouth ;  the  animal  coughs  fre- 
quently, and  when  it  drinks  the  water  is  soon  ejected.  The  cow 
stops  eating  and  stands  back  from  the  trough,  the  expression  is 
troubled,  breathing  is  accelerated,  and  oftentimes  there  is  bloating 
as  a  result  of  the  retention  of  gas  in  the  paunch.  These  symptoms, 
however,  are  not  always  present,  for  if  the  obstacle  does  not  com- 
pletely close  the  throat  or  gullet,  gas  and  water  may  pass,  thus 
ameliorating  the  discomfort.  If  the  obstruction  is  in  the  neck  por- 
tion of  the  gullet,  it  may  be  felt  as  a  lump  in  the  left  jugular  gutter. 

Treatment. — If  the  object  is  in  the  throat,  it  is  advisable  to  put  a 
gag  in  the  animal's  mouth,  and,  while  the  head  is  in  a  horizontal 
direction  by  two  assistants,  to  pass  the  hand  into  the  pharynx,  grasp 
the  foreign  body,  and  withdraw  it  gradually  and  steadily.  ^"Mien  the 
substance  is  lodged  in  the  upper  part  of  the  gullet,  pressure  should 
be  made  by  an  assistant  in  an  upward  direction  against  the  object 
while  the  oi)erator  passes  his  hand  into  the  pharynx,  and  if  the  assist- 
ant can  not  by  pressure  dislodge  the  substance  from  the  gullet,  the 
operator  may  by  passing  his  middle  finger  above  and  partly  behind 


DISEASES   OF    THE   DIGESTIVE   ORGANS.  21 

the  substance  gradually  slide  it  into  the  pharynx  and  then  withdraw 
it  by  the  month. 

The  presence  of  an  obstructing  substance  in  the  cervical  (neck) 
portion  of  the  gullet  may  be  ascertained  by  passing  the  hand  along 
the  left  side  of  the  neck,  when  a  hard  and  painless  swelling  will  be 
found  to  indicate  the  presence  of  the  foreign  body.  In  such  cases 
we  must  endeavor  by  gentle  and  persevering  pressure  with  the  thumb 
and  next  two  fingers  to  slide  the  obstructing  substance  gradually  up- 
ward to  the  pharynx.  To  facilitate  this  it  is  well  to  give  the  animal 
a  half  pint  of  raw  linseed  or  olive  oil  before  the  manipulations  de- 
scribed are  commenced.  ^^Hien  the  substance  has  been  brought  into 
or  nearly  into  the  pharynx,  then  the  mouth  gag  should  be  used,  the 
tongue  drawn  partially  forward  with  the  left  hand,  and  the  right 
should  be  passed  backward  into  the  pharynx  to  withdraw  the  ob- 
struction. 

When  bran  or  chaff  causes  the  trouble  it  is  best  to  give  a  small 
quantity  of  oil  to  lubricate  the  walls  of  the  gullet,  and  then  by  gentle 
and  persevering  pressure,  to  endeavor  to  separate  and  divide  the  mass 
and  to  work  it  downward  toward  the  stomach.  This  will  be  assisted 
by  pouring  small  quantities  of  oil  and  water  down  the  animal's  throat. 
It  is  not  advisable  to  use  the  probang  to  push  down  any  soft  material, 
such  as  oats  or  chaff,  as  this  generally  condenses  and  renders  firmer  the 
obstructing  substance  by  pressing  its  particles  or  elements  together, 
so  that  it  forms  a  solid,  resisting  mass  which  can  not  be  moved. 

In  some  cases  the  foreign  body,  either  because  it  is  in  the  chest 
portion  of  the  esophagus,  and  so  beyond  reach,  or  because  too  firmly 
seated,  can  not  be  dislodged  from  the  neck  by  pressing  and  manipu- 
lating that  part  externally.  In  such  event  we  must  resort  to  the  use 
of  the  probang.  (PI.  Ill,  figs.  2  and  3.)  A  probang  is  a  flexible 
instrument  and  adapts  itself  to  the  natural  curvature  of  the  gullet, 
and  if  used  cautiously  there  is  not  much  risk  of  injury.  Before 
passing  the  probang,  a  gag  which  has  an  aperture  at  each  end,  from 
which  straps  pass  to  be  buckled  at  the  back  of  the  head  below 
the  horns,  is  introduced  into  the  mouth.  (PI.  III.  fig.  4.)  The  pro- 
bang  should  then  be  oiled,  and.  the  head  and  neck  being  held  in  a 
straight  line  by  two  assistants,  the  tongue  must  be  partly  drawn  out 
of  the  mouth,  the  probang  cautiously  passed  along  the  roof  of  the 
mouth  into  the  pharynx  and  thence  into  the  gullet,  through  Avhich 
it  is  passed  down.  If  resistance  is  met,  gentle  and  continuous  pressure 
must  be  used,  under  the  influence  of  which  the  object  will  generally 
in  a  short  time  pass  into  the  stomach.  One  must  be  careful  not  to 
pass  the  probang  into  the  larynx  and  thence  into  the  windpipe,  as 
an  animal  may  readily  be  killed  in  this  way.  This  accident  is  indi- 
cated by  efforts  to  cough  and  by  violently  di-sturbed  breathing.  If 
such  symptoms  arise  the  probang  must  be  withdrawn  at  once.     To 


22  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

avoid  a  wrong  passage,  the  end  of  the  tube  should  be  pressed  very 
slowl}^  through  the  throat  until  its  presence  in  the  esophagus  is  as- 
sured. After  it  is  once  in  the  esophagus  care  is  still  necessary,  be- 
cause the  walls  of  this  tube  may  easily  be  torn. 

Some  writers  have  advised  that  v.hen  the  obstruction  is  lodged  in 
the  cervical  (neck)  portion  of  the  gullet  it  should  be  struck  with  a 
mallet,  to  crush  it  and  thus  alter  its  shape,  so  that  it  may  easily 
slip  down  into  the  stomach.  If  the  obstructing  substance  is  hard, 
this  will  be  a  dangerous  operation,  but  if  soft — as  in  the  case  of  a 
ripe  pear,  for  example — this  procedure  may  be  safely  adopted. 

In  all  cases,  if  pressure  applied  on  the  neck  fails  to  move  the 
obstruction  and  the  probang  also  fails  to  move  it,  it  may  be  divided 
by  a  subcutaneous  operation,  or  the  gullet  may  be  opened  and  the 
obstructing  substance  removed  through  the  wound.  In  such  cases 
the  assistance  of  a  veterinarian  or  a  surgeon  must  be  obtained. 

WOUNDS  AND  INJURIES  OF  THE  GULLET. 

Sometimes  the  walls  of  the  gullet  may  be  more  or  less  lacerated  or 
abraded  by  the  rash  and  too  forcible  use  of  the  probang,  and  the 
animal  consequently  swallows  with  pain  and  difficulty.  In  such 
cases  dry  feed  must  be  withheld  for  five  or  six  days,  so  as  to  allow  the 
injured  parts  to  heal,  and  the  diet  must  be  limited  to  linseed  tea,  hay 
tea,  and  thin  oatmeal  gruel  and  molasses.  The  same  kind  of  diet 
must  be  fed  after  the  operation  of  cutting  into  the  gullet  has  been 
performed. 

Sometimes  the  gullet  is  ruptured  and  lacerated  to  such  an  extent 
that  treatment  of  any  kind  is  hopeless.  This  has  been  known  to  occur 
when  the  handle  of  a  pitchfork  or  buggy  whip  has  been  pushed  down 
a  cow's  throat  to  remove  an  obstruction.  "When  such  treatment  has 
been  applied  it  is  best  to  slaughter  the  animal  without  delay,  as  the 
flesh  may  be  utilized  so  long  as  there  is  no  fever  or  general  disease, 
and  remedial  treatment  would  be  hopeless.  In  this  connection  it 
may  be  mentioned  that  whatever  substitute  may  be  used  for  a  pro- 
bang,  which  sometimes  is  not  at  hand,  it  should  be  flexible  and  should 
possess  a  smooth  surface.  A  piece  of  new  rope,  with  the  end  closely 
wrapped  and  waxed  and  then  oiled,  or  a  piece  of  thin  garden  hose,  or 
a  well-wrapped  twisted  wire  may  be  used  in  emergencies. 

DISEASES  OF  THE  STOMACHS. 

ACUTE  TYMPANITES   (HOVEN.  OR   BLOATING). 

Tympanites  is  a  distention  of  the  rumen  or  paunch  with  gases  of 
fermentation,  and  is  manifested  outwardly  by  swelling  in  the  region 
of  the  left  flank. 

Causes. — Tympanites  may  be  caused  by  any  kind  of  feed  which 
produces  indigestion.     Wlien  cattle  are  first  tiuned  into  j'oung  clover 


DISEASES  OF   THE  DIGESTIVE   ORGANS.  23 

they  eat  so  greedily  of  it  that  tympanites  frequently  results.  Tur- 
nips, potatoes,  cabbage,  or  the  discarded  pulp  from  sugar-beet  fac- 
tories may  also  cause  it.  ^Middlings  and  corn  meal  also  frequently 
give  rise  to  it. 

Care  is  necessary  in  turning  animals  into  fields  of  clover  or  stub- 
ble fields  in  which  there  is  a  strong  growth  of  volunteer  grain.  It 
is  always  better  to  keep  them  from  such  pasturage  while  it  is  wet 
with  dew,  and  they  should  be  taken  out  when  they  have  eaten  a 
moderate  quantity.  When  cattle  are  fed  upon  pulp  from  sugar 
beets,  germinated  malt,  etc.,  they  should  be  fed  in  moderate  amounts 
until  they  have  become  accustomed  to  it,  as  any  of  these  feeds  may 
give  rise  to  severe  bloating. 

An  excessive  quantity  of  any  of  the  before-mentioned  feeds  may 
bring  on  this  disorder,  or  it  may  not  be  caused  by  excess,  but  to 
eating  too  hastily.  Sometimes  the  quality  of  the  feed  is  at  fault. 
Grass  or  clover  when  wet  by  dew  or  rain  frequently  disorders  di- 
gestion and  brings  on  tympanites;  frozen  roots  or  pastures  covered 
with  hoar  frost  should  also  be  regarded  as  dangerous.  When  feed 
has  been  eaten  too  hastily,  or  when  it  is  cold  and  wet,  the  digestive 
process  is  imperfectly  performed,  and  the  feed  contained  in  the 
paunch  ferments,  during  which  process  large  quantities  of  gas  are 
formed.  The  same  result  may  follow  when  a  cow  is  choked,  as  the 
obstruction  in  the  gullet  prevents  the  eructation  or  passing  up  of 
gas  from  the  stomach,  so  that  the  gas  continues  to  accumulate  until 
tympanites  results. 

Syinpto77is. — The  swelling  of  the  left  flank  is  very  characteristic, 
as  in  well-marked  cases  the  flank  at  its  upper  part  rises  above  the 
level  of  the  backbone,  and  Avhen  struck  with  the  tips  of  the  fingers 
emits  a  drum-like  sound.  The  animal  has  an  anxious  expression, 
moves  uneasily,  and  is  evidently  distressed.  If  relief  is  not  obtained 
in  time,  it  breathes  with  difficulty,  reels  in  wallring  or  in  standing, 
and  in  a  short  time  falls  and  dies  from  suffocation.  The  distention 
of  the  stomach  may  become  so  great  as  to  prevent  the  animal  from 
breathing,  and  in  some  instances  the  case  may  be  complicated  by 
rupture  of  the  stomach. 

TreatTnent. — If  the  case  is  not  extreme,  it  may  be  sufficient  to 
drive  the  animal  at  a  walk  for  a  quarter  or  half  an  hour;  or  cold 
water  by  the  bucketful  may  be  thrown  against  the  cow's  sides.  In 
some  cases  the  following  simple  treatment  is  successful:  A  rope  or 
a  twisted  straw  band  is  coated  with  pine  tar,  wagon  grease,  or  other 
unsavory  substance  and  is  placed  in  the  cow's  mouth  as  a  bit,  being 
secured  by  tying  behind  the  horns.  The  efforts  of  the  animal  to  dis- 
lodge this  object  result  in  movements  of  the  tongue,  jaws,  and  throat 
that  stimulate  the  secretion  of  saliva  and  swallowing,  thus  opening 


24  DISEASES  OF   CATTLE. 

the  esophagus,  which  permits  the  exit  of  gas  and  at  the  same  time 
peristalsis  is  stimuhited  reflexly. 

In  urgent  cases  the  gas  must  be  allowed  to  escape  without  delay, 
and  this  is  best  accomplished  by  the  use  of  the  trocar.  The  trocar 
is  a  sharp-pointed  instrument  incased  in  a  cannula  or  sheath,  which 
leaves  the  sharp  point  of  the  trocar  free.  (See  PI.  Ill,  figs.  5«.  and 
5h.)  In  selecting  the  point  for  using  the  trocar  a  spot  on  the  left 
side  equally  distant  from  the  last  rib,  the  hip  bone,  and  the  trans- 
verse processes  of  the  lumbar  vertebrce  must  be  chosen.  Here  an 
incision  about  three- fourths  of  an  inch  long  should  be  made  with  a 
knife  through  the  skin,  and  then  the  sharp  point  of  the  trocar,  being 
directed  doAvnward,  inward,  and  slightly  forward,  is  thrust  into  the 
paunch.  (PI.  I.)  The  cannula  or  sheath  of  the  trocar  should  be 
left  in  the  paunch  so  long  as  any  gas  continues  to  issue  from  it.  If 
the  cannula  is  removed  while  gas  is  still  forming  in  the  paunch  and 
the  left  flank  becomes  considerably  swollen,  it  may  be  necessary 
to  insert  it  again.  It  is  well,  accordingly,  to  observe  the  cannula 
closely,  and  if  gas  is  found  to  be  issuing  from  it  it  should  not  be 
removed.  When  gas  issues  from  it  in  considerable  quantities  the 
sound  accompanjdng  its  escape  renders  the  exact  condition  obvious. 
It  is  occasionally  necessary  to  keep  the  cannula  in  the  stomach  for 
several  hours.  When  this  is  necessary  a  piece  of  stout  cord  should 
be  passed  round  the  neck  of  the  cannula  immediately  below  the  pro- 
jecting rim  and  then  be  passed  romid  the  animal's  body  and  tied 
in  a  secure  knot,  and  a  careful  attendant  must  remain  with  the  cow 
during  the  entire  period  that  the  instrument  is  in  place.  The  rim 
surrounding  the  mouth  of  the  cannula  should  be  in  contact  ^vith  the 
skin.  Whenever  the  person  in  charge  of  the  cow  is  convinced  that 
gas  has  ceased  to  issue  from  the  cannula  the  instrument  should  be 
removed. 

The  trocar  is  to  be  used  only  in  extreme  or  urgent  cases,  though 
everyone  who  has  had  experience  in  treating  indigestion  in  cattle 
realizes  that  he  has  saved  the  lives  of  many  animals  by  its  prompt 
application. 

When  the  tympanitic  animal  is  not  distressed  an<l  the  swelling 
of  the  flank  is  not  great,  or  when  the  most  distressing  condition  has 
been  removed  by  the  use  of  the  trocar,  it  is  best  to  use  internal 
medicine.  Two  ounces  of  aromatic  spirits  of  ammonia  should  be 
given  every  half  hour  in  a  quart  of  cold  water;  or  half  an  ounce 
of  chlorid  of  lime  may  be  dissolved  in  a  pint  of  tepid  water  and 
the  dose  repeated  every  half  hour  until  the  bloating  has  subsided; 
or  1  ounce  of  creolin  in  2  quarts  of  tepid  water  may  be  given  at  one 
dose  or  carefully  injected  through  the  cannula  directly  into  the 
paunch  to  stop  fermentation  and  the  consequent  formation  of  gas. 
It  is  generally  necessary  to  give  a  moderate  dose  of  purgative  medi- 


DISEASES   OF    THE   DIGESTIVE   ORGANS.  25 

cine  after  bloating  lias  subsided,  as  ailimals  frequentl}^  show  symp- 
toms of  constipation  after  attacks  of  indigestion.  For  this  pm^pose 
1  pound  of  Glauber's  salt  may  be  used. 

The  animal  should  be  fed  carefully  upon  easily  digested  food  for 
several  days  after  the  bloating  has  subsided,  so  that  all  fermenting 
matter  ma.y  pass  out  of  the  stomach. 

CHRONIC  TYMPANITES. 

Cattle,  especially  those  that  have  been  kept  in  the  stable  all 
winter,  are  lialile  to  suffer  from  chronic  tympanites.  In  this  form 
they  bloat  up  after  feeding,  but  seldom  swell  so  much  as  to  cause 
any  alarm.  The  chronic  form  of  indigestion  may  also  follow  an 
acute  attack  like  that  previously  described.  This  is  also  a  symptom 
of  tuberculosis  when  the  lymphatic  glands  lying  between  the  lungs 
are  so  enlarged  as  to  press  upon  and  partly  occlude  the  esophagus. 
It  may  develop  in  cahes  as  a  result  of  the  formation  of  hair  balls  in 
the  stomach. 

Treatment. — Treatment  should  be  preceded  b}^  a  moderate  dose  of 
purgative  medicine:  1  pound  of  sulphate  of  magnesia  (Epsom  salt) 
or  sulphate  of  soda  (Glauber's  salt),  half  an  ounce  of  powdered 
Barbados  aloes,  1  ounce  of  powdered  ginger,  1  pint  of  molasses.  The 
salts  and  aloes  should  be  dissolved  by  stirring  for  a  few^  minutes  in  2 
quarts  of  lukewarm  water,  then  the  molasses  should  be  added,  and 
after  all  the  ingredients  have  been  stirred  together  for  about  10 
minutes  the  dose  should  be  administered.  After  the  operation  of 
the  purgatiA'e  it  is  generally  necessary  to  give  some  tonic  and  antacid 
preparation  to  promote  digestion,  which  is  imperfectly  performed  in 
such  cases.  The  following  may  be  used :  Pow^lered  gentian,  3  ounces ; 
powdered  bicarbonate  of  potash,  3  ounces;  powdered  ginger,  3  ounces ; 
poAvdered  capsicum,  1  ounce.  Mix  and  divide  into  12  powders,  one 
of  which  should  be  given  three  times  a  day  before  feeding,  shaken 
up  with  a  pint  and  a  half  of  water.  It  is  also  advantageous  in  such 
cases  to  give  tAvo  heaped  teaspoonsfuls  of  wood  charcoal,  mixed  with 
the  animal's  feed  three  times  a  day.  The  animal  should  also  go  out 
during  the  day,  as  w^ant  of  exercise  favors  the  continuance  of  this 
form  of  indigestion.  If  the  dung  is  hard,  the  constipation  should  be 
overcome  by  feeding  a  little  flaxseed  twice  daily  or  by  giving  a  hand- 
ful of  Glauber's  salt  in  the  feed  once  or  tAvice  daily,  as  may  be  neces- 
sary. Eoots,  silage,  and  other  succulent  feeds  are  useful  in  this  con- 
nection. If  tuberculosis  is  suspected  as  the  cause  of  chronic  bloating, 
a  skilled  veterinarian  should  make  a  diagnosis,  using  the  tuberculin 
test  if  necessary.  Until  it  is  settled  that  the  cow  has  not  tuberculosis, 
she  should  be  kept  apart  from  the  other  members  of  the  herd. 


26  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

DISTENTION  OF  RUMEN  OR  PAUNCH  WITH  FEED. 

This  form  of  indigestion  is  caused  by  the  animal  gorging  itself 
with  feed,  and  arises  more  from  tlie  animal's  voracious  appetite  than 
from  any  defect  in  the  quality  of  the  feed  supplied  to  it.  The  con- 
dition is,  however,  more  se\'ere  if  the  feed  consumed  is  especially  con- 
centrated or  difficult  of  digestion.  In  cases  of  this  kind  there  is 
comparatively  no  great  formation  of  gas,  and  the  gas  which  is  formed 
is  diffused  through  the  stomach  instead  of  accumulating  in  a  layer 
in  its  upper  part.  On  pressing  the  flank  with  the  closed  fist  the 
indent  of  the  hand  remains  for  a  short  time  in  the  flank,  as  if  the 
rumen  Mere  filled  with  a  soft,  dough}^  mass. 

This  form  of  indigestion  should  be  treated  b}^  stimulants,  such  as 
aromatic  spirits  of  ammonia. 

If  the  formation  of  gas  is  not  great  and  the  distention  with  solid 
material  is  somewhat  limited,  the  animal  may  be  drenched  through 
a  piece  of  ordinary  garden  hose,  one  end  inserted  in  the  mouth, 
and  the  other  end  fitted  with  a  funnel,  giving  1^  pounds  of  Epsom 
salt  or  Glauber's  salt  dissolved  in  2  gallons  of  water,  at  a  single  dose. 
Immediately  after  this  treatment  the  left  side  of  the  animal,  extend- 
ing below  the  median  line  of  the  abdomen,  should  be  powerfully 
kneaded  with  the  fist,  so  that  the  impacted  food  mass  will  be  broken, 
allowing  the  water  to  separate  it  into  small  portions  which  can  be 
carried  downward  for  the  process  of  digestion.  But  if  the  treatment 
fails  and  the  impacted  or  overloaded  condition  of  the  rumen  con- 
tinues, it  may  become  necessary  to  make  an  incision  with  a  sharp, 
long-bladed  knife  in  the  left  flank,  commencing  at  the  point  where 
it  is  usual  to  puncture  the  stomach  of  an  ox,  and  prolong  the  incision 
in  a  downward  direction  until  it  is  long  enough  to  admit  the  hand. 
When  the  point  of  the  knife  is  thrust  into  the  flank  and  the  blade 
cuts  downward,  the  wall  of  the  stomach,  the  muscle,  and  the  skin 
should  all  be  cut  through  at  the  same  time.  Two  assistants  should 
hold  the  edges  of  the  wound  together  so  as  to  prevent  any  food  from 
slipping  between  the  flank  and  the  wall  of  the  stomach,  and  then  the 
operator  should  remove  two-third  of  the  contents  of  the  rumen.  This 
having  been  done,  the  edges  of  the  wound  should  be  sponged  with  a 
little  carbolized  warm  water,  and,  the  lips  of  the  wound  in  the  rumen 
being  turned  inward,  they  should  be  brought  together  with  catgut 
stitches.  The  wound  penetrating  the  muscle  and  the  skin  may  then 
be  brought  together  by  silk  stitches,  which  should  pass  through  the 
entire  thickness  of  the  muscle  and  should  be  about  1  inch  apart.  The 
wound  should  afterwards  be  dressed  once  a  day  with  a  lotion  and 
the  animal  covered  with  a  tight  linen  sheet,  to  protect  the  wound 
from  insects  and  dirt.  The  lotion  to  be  u.sed  in  such  case  is  made  up 
as  follows:  Sulphate  of  zinc,  1  dram;  carbolic  acid,  2  drams;  glycerin, 


DISEASES   OF   THE   DIGESTIVE   ORGANS.  27 

2  ounces;  water,  14  ounces:  mix.  It  is  clear  that  this  operation  re- 
quires special  skill  and  it  should  be  attempted  only  by  those  who  are 
competent. 

IMAGINARY  DISEASES   (HOLLOW  HORN;  LOSS  OF  CUD;  WOLF  IN  THE  TAIL). 

It  would  appear  quite  in  place  here,  in  connection  with  the  diseases 
of  the  stomach  and  bowels  of  cattle,  to  consider  the  three  old  fallacies 
or  superstitions  known  by  the  above  names,  since  these  names,  when- 
ever and  wherever  used,  seem  to  be  invariabl}^  applied  to  some  form 
of  digestive  derangement  or  disease  having  its  origin  in  the  stomach 
and  bowels. 

Hollow  hokis^. — In  the  first  place  it  should  be  noted  that  the  horns 
of  all  animals  of  the  ox  tribe  are  hollow.  The  horn  cores  are  elonga- 
tions of  the  frontal  bones  of  the  skull,  and  the  frontal  sinuses,  which 
are  the  larger  of  the  air  spaces  of  the  head,  are  prolonged  into  the 
horn  cores.  When  a  cow  is  sick,  if  the  horns  are  hot  it  is  an  evi- 
dence of  fever;  if  they  are  cold  it  indicates  impaired  circulation  of 
the  blood ;  but  these  manifestations  of  sickness  are  to  be  regarded  as 
symptoms  of  some  constitutional  disorder  and  do  not  in  themselves 
require  treatment.  The  treatment  should  be  applied  to  the  disease 
which  causes  the  abnormal  temperature  of  the  horns.  The  usual 
treatment  for  the  supposed  hollow  horn,  which  consists  in  boring 
the  horns  with  a  gimlet  and  pouring  turpentine  into  the  openings 
thus  made,  is  not  only  useless  and  cruel,  but  is  liable  to  set  up  an 
acute  inflammation  and  result  in  an  abscess  of  the  sinus. 

Loss  OF  CUD. — The  so-called  loss  of  cud  is  simply  a  cessation  of 
rumination,  frequently  one  of  the  first  indications  of  some  form  of 
disease,  since  ruminants  stop  chewing  the  cud  when  they  feel  sick. 
Loss  of  cud  is  a  symptom  of  a  great  many  diseases,  and  when  it  is 
detected  it  should  lead  the  observer  to  try  to  discover  other  symptoms 
upon  which  to  base  a  correct  opinion  as  to  the  nature  of  the  disease 
from  which  the  animal  suffers.    No  local  treatment  is  required. 

Wolf  in  the  tail. — This  term  also  seems  to  be  vaguely  applied  to 
various  disturbances  of  the  digestive  function,  or  to  some  disease 
which  is  in  reality  in  the  stomach  or  bowels. 

VOMITING. 

Vomiting  is  not  to  be  confounded  with  rumination,  though  some 
writers  have  advanced  the  opinion  that  it  is  merely  a  disordered 
and  irregidar  rumination.    It  is  not  of  common  occurrence  in  cattle. 

Symptoms. — Animals  which  vomit  are  frequently  in  poor  condition. 
After  having  eaten  tranquilly  for  some  time  the  animal  suddenly'  be- 
comes uneasy,  arches  the  back,  stretches  the  neck  and  head,  and 
then  suddenly  ejects  10  to  12  pounds  of  the  contents  of  the  rumen. 


28  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

After  having  done  this  the  uneasiness  subsides  and  in  a  short  time 
the  animal  resumes  eating  as  if  nothing  had  happened. 

Cause. — The  cause  of  this  disordered  state  of  the  digestive  S5'^stem 
in  cattle  is  usually  obscure,  but  has  in  some  cases  been  traced  to  a 
partial  closure  of  the  opening  into  the  second  stomach  or  to  a  disten- 
tion of  the  esophagus.  It  has  been  found  to  occur  ^vhen  there  was 
cancerous  disease  of  the  fourth  stomach,  and  experimentally  it  has 
been  shown  that  a  suspension  of  digestion  or  great  derangement  of 
this  stomach  produces  considerable  nervous  disorder  of  the  rumen 
and  sometimes  vomiting  or  attempts  to  vomit. 

Treatment. — Easily  digested  feed  and  plenty  of  water  should  be 
given.  Fear  and  excitement,  chasing,  or  hurrying  animals  after 
they  have  eaten  heartily  are  liable  to  bring  on  this  result.  In  order 
to  overcome  irritation  which  may  produce  vomiting  the  folloAving 
draft  should  be  given:  Hydrate  of  chloral,  half  an  ounce;  water,  1 
pint.  The  dose  must  be  repeated  when  the  condition  of  the  animal 
seems  to  require  it.    As  a  rule,  treatment  is  not  successful. 

DEPRAVED  APPETITE   (PICA). 

Cattle  suffering  from  this  disease  have  a  capricious  and  variable 
appetite  as  regards  their  ordinary  feed  but  evince  a  strong  desire  to 
lick  and  eat  substances  for  which  healthy  cattle  show  no  inclination. 
Alkaline  and  saline-tasting  substances  are  especially  attractive  to 
cattle  having  a  depraved  appetite  and  they  frequently  lick  lime, 
earth,  coal,  gravel,  and  even  the  dung  of  other  cattle.  Cows  in  calf 
and  young  cattle  are  especially  liable  to  develop  these  symptoms. 
Animals  affected  in  this  way  lose  condition,  their  coat  is  staring,  gait 
sloAV,  and  small  vesicles  containing  yellow  liquid  form  under  the 
tongue;  the  milk  given  by  such  cows  is  thin  and  watery.  Such  ani- 
mals become  restless  and  uneasy,  as  is  indicated  by  frequent  bellow- 
ing. The  disease  may  last  for  months,  the  animal  ultimately  dying 
emaciated  and  exhausted.  Depraved  appetite  frequently  precedes 
the  condition  in  which  the  bones  of  cattle  become  brittle  and  fracture 
easih^,  which  is  known  as  osteomalacia. 

Cause. — From  the  fact  that  this  disease  is  largely  one  of  regions, 
it  is  generally  believed  that  some  condition  of  the  soil  and  water  and 
of  the  local  vegetation  is  responsible  for  it.  It  is  more  prevalent 
some  years  than  others,  and  is  most  common  in  old  countries,  where 
the  soil  is  more  or  less  depleted.  Cattle  pastured  on  low,  swampy 
land  become  predisposed  to  it.  It  occasionally  happens,  however, 
that  one  individual  in  a  herd  suffei's  though  all  are  fed  alike;  in  such 
cases  the  disease  must  arise  from  the  affected  animal's  imperfect 
assimilation  of  the  nutritive  elements  of  the  feed  which  is  supplied 
to  it. 


DISEASES  OF    THE   DIGESTIVE   ORGAKS.  29 

Ti'^atment. — The  aim  in  sucli  cases  must  be  to  improve  the  process 
of  digestion  and  to  supply  the  animal  with  a  sufficiency  of  sound 
and  wholesome  feed.  The  following*  should  be  given  to  the  cow 
three  times  a  day,  a  heaping  tablespoonful  constituting  a  dose: 
Carbonate  of  iron,  4  ounces ;  finely  ground  bone  or  "  bone  flour," 
1  pound;  powdered  gentian,  4  ounces;  common  salt,  8  ounces;  pow- 
dered fenugreek,  4  ounces;  mix.  In  addition  to  this,  3  tablespoon- 
fuls  of  powdered  charcoal  may  be  mixed  with  the  feed  three  times 
a  day,  and  a  piece  of  rock  salt  should  be  placed  where  the  animal 
can  lick  it  at  will.  German  veterinarians  have  had  brilliant  results 
from  the  treatment  of  this  disease  with  subcutaneous  injections  of 
apomorphin  in  doses  of  l^-  to  5  grains  for  three  or  four  days. 

HAIR  CONCRETIONS. 

Hair  concretions,  or  hair  balls,  result  from  the  habit  which  some 
cattle  have  of  licking  themselves  or  other  animals.  As  a  result  the 
hairs  which  are  swallowed  are  carried  around  by  the  contractions  of 
the  stomach  and  gradually  assume  the  form  of  a  small  pellet  or 
ball.  This  increases  in  size  as  fresh  quantities  of  hair  are  intro- 
duced into  the  stomach  and  adhere  to  the  surface  of  the  ball.  These 
balls  are  found  most  frequently  in  the  reticulum  or  second  stomach 
(PI.  II,  B),  though  sometimes  in  the  rumen.  In  calves  hair  balls 
are  generally  found  in  the  fourth  stomach.  There  are  no  certain 
symptoms  by  which  we  can  determine  the  presence  of  hair  balls  in 
the  stomach,  and  therefore  no  treatment  can  be  recommended  for 
such  cases.  In  making  post-mortem  examinations  of  cattle  we  have 
sometimes  found  the  walls  of  the  reticulum  transfixed  with  nails 
or  pieces  of  ware,  and  yet  the  animal  had  not  shown  any  symptoms 
of  indigestion,  but  had  died  from  maladies  not  involving  the  second 
stomach. 

INDIGESTION   (DYSPEPSIA,  OR  GASTROINTESTINAL  CATARRH). 

Tympanites,  already  described,  is  a  form  of  indigestion  in  which 
the  chief  sj^nptom  and  most  threatening  condition  is  the  collection 
of  gas  in  the  paunch.  This  symptom  does  not  always  accompany 
indigestion,  so  it  is  well  here  to  consider  other  forms  under  a  sepa- 
rate head.  If  indigestion  is  long  continued,  the  irritant  abnormal 
products  developed  cause  catarrh  of  the  stomach  and  intestines — • 
gastrointestinal  catarrh.  On  the  other  hand,  however,  irritant 
substances  ingested  may  cause  gastrointestinal  catarrh.  Avhich,  in 
turn,  will  cause  indigestion ;  hence,  it  results  that  these  several  con- 
ditions are  usually  found  existing  together. 

Causes. — Irritant  feed,  damaged  feed,  overloading  of  the  stomach, 
or  sudden  changes  of  diet  may  cause  this  disease.     "Want  of  exer- 


30  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

cise  predisposes  to  it,  or  feed  which  is  coarse  and  indigestible  may 
after  a  time  produce  it.  Feed  which  possesses  astringent  prop- 
erties and  tends  to  check  secretion  may  also  act  as  an  exciting  caiise. 
Feed  in  excessive  quantity  may  lead  to  disorder  of  digestion  and 
to  this  disease.  It  is  very  likely  to  appear  toward  the  end  of  pro- 
tracted seasons  of  drought;  therefore  a  deficiency  of  water  must  be 
regarded  as  one  of  the  conditions  which  favor  its  development. 

^ymptoins. — Diminished  appetite,  rumination  irregular,  tongue 
coated,  mouth  slimy,  dung  passed  apparently  not  well  digested  and 
smelling  badly,  dullness,  and  fullness  of  the  flanks.  The  disease 
may  in  some  cases  assume  a  chronic  character,  and  in  addition  to  the 
foregoing  sj^mptoms  slight  bloating  or  tympanites  of  the  left  flank 
may  be  observed;  the  animal  breathes  with  effort  and  each  respira- 
tion mav  be  accompanied  with  a  gi-unt,  the  ears  and  horns  are  alter- 
natel}^  hot  and  cold,  rumination  ceases,  the  usual  rumbling  sound  in 
the  stomach  is  not  audible,  the  passage  of  dung  is  almost  entirely 
suspended,  and  the  animal  passes  only  a  little  mucus  occasionally. 
Sometimes  there  is  alternating  constipation  and  diarrhea.  There  is 
low  fever  in  many  cases. 

The  disease  continues  a  few  daj^s  or  a  week  in  the  mild  cases,  while 
the  severe  cases  may  last  several  weeks.  In  the  latter  form  the  ema- 
ciation and  loss  of  strength  may  be  very  great.  There  is  no  appe- 
tite, no  rumination,  nor  peristalsis.  The  mouth  is  hot  and  sticlrs',  the 
ej^es  have  receded  in  their  sockets,  and  milk  secretion  has  ceased.  In 
such  cases  the  outlook  for  recovery  is  unfavorable.  The  patient  falls 
away  in  flesh  and  becomes  weaker,  as  is  shown  by  the  fact  that  one 
frequent!}^  finds  it  lying  down. 

On  examining  animals  which  have  died  of  this  disease  it  is  found 
that  the  lining  membrane  of  the  fourth  stomach  and  the  intestines, 
particularly  the  small  intestine,  is  red,  swollen,  streaked  with  deeper 
red  or  bluish  lines,  or  spotted.  The  lining  of  the  first  three  stomachs 
is  more  or  less  softened,  and  may  easily  be  peeled  off.  The  third 
stomach  (psalter)  contains  dry  feed  in  hard  masses  closely  adherent 
to  its  walls. 

In  some  cases  the  brain  appears  to  become  disordered,  probably 
from  the  pain  and  weakness  and  from  the  absorption  of  toxins  gener- 
ated in  the  digestive  canal.  In  such  cases  there  is  weakness  and  an 
unsteady  gait,  the  animal  does  not  appear  to  take  notice  of  and  will 
consequently  run  against  obstacles;  after  a  time  it  falls  and  gives 
up  to  violent  and  disordered  movements.  This  delirious  condi- 
tion is  succeeded  by  coma  or  stupor,  and  death  ensues. 

Treatment. — Small  quantities  of  roots,  sweet  silage,  or  selected 
grass  or  hay  should  be  offered  several  times  daily.  Very  little  feed 
should  be  allowed.  Aromatic  and  demulcent  drafts  may  be  given  to 
produce  a  soothing  effect  on  the  mucous  lining  of  the  stomachs  and 


DISEASES  OF   THE  DIGESTIVE  ORGANS.  31 

to  promote  digestion.  Two  ounces  of  camomile  flowers  should  be 
boiled  for  20  minutes  in  a  quart  of  water  and  the  infusion  on  cooling 
should  be  given  to  the  affected  animal.  This  may  be  repeated  three 
or  four  times  a  day.  When  constipation  is  present  the  following  pur- 
gative ma}^  be  administered:  One  pound  of  Glauber's  salt  dissolved  in 
a  quart  of  linseed  tea  and  a  pint  of  molasses.  After  this  purgative 
has  acted,  if  there  is  a  lack  of  appetite  and  the  animal  does  not 
ruminate  regularly,  the  powder  mentioned  in  remarks  on  the  treat- 
ment of  chronic  tympanites  may  be  given  according  to  directions. 
The  diet  must  be  rather  laxative  and  of  an  easily  digestible  character 
after  an  attack  of  this  form  of  indigestion.  Feed  should  be  given  in 
moderate  quantities,  as  excess  by  overtaxing  the  digestive  functions 
may  bring  on  a  relapse.    Ice-cold  water  should  be  avoided. 

INDIGESTION  FROM  DRINKING  COLD  WATER   (COLIC). 

This  disorder  is  produced  by  drinking  copiously  of  cold  water, 
which  arrests  digestion  and  produces  cramp  of  the  fourth  stomach, 
probably  of  the  other  stomachs,  and  also  of  the  bowels. 

Causes. — It  is  not  customary  for  the  ox  to  drink  much  water  at 
once.  In  fact,  he  usually'  drinks  slowly  and  as  if  he  were  merely  tast- 
ing the  water,  letting  some  fall  out  at  the  corners  of  his  mouth  at 
every  mouthful.  It  would  therefore  seem  to  be  contrary  to  the  habits 
of  the  ox  to  drink  copiously:  but  we  find  that  during  hot  weather, 
when  he  has  been  working  and  is  consequently  very  thirsty,  if  he 
drinks  a  large  quantity  of  cold  water  he  may  be  immediately  taken 
with  a  very  severe  colic.  Cows  which  are  fed  largely  on  dr}'  hay 
drink  copiously,  like  the  working  ox,  and  become  affected  in  precisely 
the  same  manner.  In  such  cases  they  are  seized  with  a  chill  or  fit  of 
trembling  before  the  cramps  come  on. 

Symptoms. — There  is  some  distension  of  the  abdomen,  but  no  accu- 
mulation of  gas.  As  the  distension  and  pain  occur  immediately  after 
the  animal  has  drunk  the  water,  there  can  be  no  doubt  as  to  the 
exciting  cause. 

Treatment. — Walk  the  animal  about  for  10  minutes  before  admin- 
istering medicine,  and  this  allows  time  for  a  portion  of  the  contents 
.of  the  stomach  to  pass  into  the  bowel,  and  renders  it  safer  to  give 
medicine.  In  many  cases  the  walking  exercise  and  the  diarrhea  bring 
about  a  spontaneous  cure  of  this  disorder,  but  as  in  some  instances 
the  cramps  and  pains  of  the  stomachs  persist,  one  may  give  1  ounce 
of  sulphuric  ether  and  1  ounce  of  tincture  of  opium,  shaken  up  with 
a  pint  of  warm  water,  and  repeat  the  dose  in  half  an  hour  if  the  ani- 
mal is  not  relieved.  In  an  emergency  when  the  medicine  is  not  to  be 
had,  a  tablespoonful  of  powdered  ginger  may  be  administered  in  a 
pint  of  warm  water. 


32  DISEASES   OF  CATTLE. 

INDIGESTION  IN  CALVES  (GASTROINTESTINAL  CATARRH,  DIARRHEA,  OR  SCOUR). 

Sucking  calves  are  subject  to  a  form  of  diarrhea  to  which  the  fore- 
going designations  have  been  applied. 

Causes. — Calves  that  suck  their  dams  are  not  frequently  affected 
with  this  disease,  though  it  may  be  occasioned  by  their  sucking  at 
long  intervals  and  thus  overloading  the  stomach  and  bringing  on 
indigestion,  or  from  improper  feeding  of  the  dam  on  soft,  watery,  or 
damaged  feeds.  Suckling  the  calf  at  irregular  times  may  also  cause 
it.  Exposure  to  damp  and  cold  is  a  potent  predisposing  cause. 
Calves  separated  from  their  dams  and  fed  considerable  quantities 
of  cold  milk  at  long  intervals  are  liable  to  contract  this  form  of 
indigestion.  Calves  fed  on  artificial  feed,  used  as  a  substitute  for 
milk,  frequently  contract  it.  Damaged  feed,  sour  or  rotten  milk, 
milk  from  dirty  cans,  skim  milk  from  a  dirty  creamery  skim-milk 
vat,  skim  milk  hauled  warm,  exposed  to  the  sun  and  fed  from  un- 
clean buckets  may  all  cause  this  disease. 

Symptoms. — The  calf  is  depressed;  appetite  is  poor;  sometimes 
there  is  fever ;  the  extremities  are  cold.  The  dung  becomes  gradually 
softer  and  lighter  in  color  until  it  is  cream  colored  and  little  thicker 
than  milk.  It  has  a  most  offensive  odor  and  may  contain  clumps  of 
curd.  Later  it  contains  mucus  and  gas  bubbles.  It  sticks  to  the 
hair  of  the  tail  and  buttocks,  causing  the  hair  to  drop  off  and  the  sldn 
to  become  irritated.  There  may  be  pain  on  passing  dung  and  also 
abdominal  or  colicky  pain.  The  calf  stands  about  with  the  back 
arched  and  belly  contracted.  There  may  be  tympanites.  Great 
Aveakness  ensues  in  severe  cases,  and  without  prompt  and  successful 
treatment  death  soon  follows. 

Treatment. — Eemove  the  cause.  Give  appropriate  feed  of  best 
quality  in  small  quantities.  Make  sure  that  the  cow  furnishing  the 
milk  is  healthy  and  is  properly  fed.  Clean  all  milk  vessels.  Clean 
and  disinfect  the  stalls.  For  the  diarrhea  give  two  raw  eggs  or  a  cup 
of  strong  coffee  or  2  ounces  of  blackberry  brandy.  If  the  case  is 
severe,  give  1  ounce  of  castor  oil  with  a  teaspoonful  of  creolin  and 
20  grains  of  subnitrate  of  bismuth.  Repeat  the  bismuth  and  creolin. 
with  blackberry  brandy  and  flaxseed  tea  every  four  hours.  Tannopin 
may  be  used  in  dose  of  15  to  30  grains. 

Calves  artificially  fed  on  whole  or  skim  milk  should  receive  only 
such  milk  as  is  sweet  and  has  been  handled  in  a  sanitary  manner. 
Milk  should  ahvays  be  warmed  to  the  temperature  of  the  body 
before  feeding.  When  calves  artificially  milk-fed  develop  diarrhea, 
the  use  of  the  following  treatment  has  given  excellent  results  in  many 
cases:  Immediately  after  milking,  or  the  separation  of  the  skim  milk 
from  the  cream,  formalin  in  the  proportion  of  1  to  4,000  should  be 
added  to  the  milk  Avhich  is  used  for  feeding;  this  may  be  closely 
approximated  by  adding  four  drops  of  formalin  to  each  quart  of 


DISEASES   OF    THE   DIGESTIVE   ORGANS.  33 

milk.  This  medicated  milk  should  be  fed  to  the  calf  in  the  usual 
quantity.  When  the  diarrhea  is  not  controlled  in  three  or  four  days 
by  this  treatment,  the  additional  use  of  some  of  the  agents  recom- 
mended above  may  assist  in  a  recovery. 

INFECTIOUS  DIARRHEA;   WHITE  SCOUR. 

[See  chapter  ou  Disejiscs  of  voung  calves,  p.  245.] 
GASTROENTERITIS. 

This  consists  of  an  inflammation  of  the  walls  of  the  stomachs  and 
of  the  bowel. 

Gastroenteritis,  or  inflammation  of  the  walls  of  the  stomachs  and 
intestines,  folloAvs  upon  irritations  more  severe  or  longer  continued 
than  those  that  produced  gastrointestinal  catarrh. 

Causes. — Severe  indigestion  may  be  followed  by  gastroenteritis,  or 
it  may  be  caused  by  swallowing  irritant  poisons,  such  as  arsenic  or 
corrosive  sublimate  or  irritant  plants.  Exposure  to  cold  or  inclement 
weather  may  produce  the  disease,  especially  in  debilitated  animals 
or  animals  fed  improperly.  It  is  asserted  that  if  cattle  feed  on  vege- 
tation infested  with  some  kinds  of  caterpillars  this  disease  may  result. 

Symptoms. — Dullness;  drooping  of  the  ears;  dryness  of  the  muz- 
zle ;  drj^  skin ;  staring  coat ;  loins  morbidly  sensitive  to  pressure ;  full- 
ness of  the  left  flank,  which  is  caused  by  the  distention  of  the  fourth 
stomach  by  gas.  The  pulse  is  small,  the  gait  is  feeble  and  staggering; 
each  step  taken  is  accompanied  with  a  grunt,  and  this  symptom  is 
especially  marked  if  the  animal  walks  in  a  downward  direction. 
There  is  loss  of  appetite,  and  rumination  is  suspended.  The  passages 
at  first  are  few  in  number,  hard,  and  are  sometimes  coated  with 
mucus  or  with  blood.  Later  a  severe  diarrhea  sets  in,  when  the  pas- 
sages contain  mucus  and  blood  and  have  an  offensive  odor.  There  is 
evidence  of  colicky  pain,  and  the  abdomen  is  sensitive  to  pressure. 
Pain  may  be  continuous.  There  is  fever  and  acceleration  of  pulse 
rate  and  respirations.  Mental  depression  and  even  insensibility  occur 
before  death.    The  disease  is  always  severe  and  often  fatal. 

Post-mortem  appearances. — The  mucous  membrane  of  the  fourth 
stomach  has  a  well-marked  red  color  and  sometimes  presents  ulcera- 
tions. The  wall  is  thickened  and  softened,  and  similar  conditions 
are  found  in  the  walls  of  the  intestines.  The  red  discoloration  ex- 
tends in  spots  or  large  areas  quite  through  the  wall,  showing  on  the 
outside. 

Treatment. — Very  small  quantities  of  carefully  selected  feed  must 
be  given  and  the  appetite  must  not  be  forced.  Protect  the  animal 
well  from  cokl  and  dampness.  Internally,  give  linseed  tea,  boiled 
milk,  boiled  oatmeal  gruel,  or  rice  water.  These  protectives  may 
carry  the  medicine.  Tannopin  in  doses  of  30  to  60  grains  is  good. 
33071°— 16 3 


34  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

Siibnitrate  of  bismuth  in  doses  of  1  to  2  drams  may  be  given.  Pul- 
verized opimn  may  be  used,  if  the  diarrhea  is  severe,  in  1  to  2  dram 
doses.  If  the  bowel  movements  are  not  free,  one  may  give  from  a 
pint  to  a  quart  of  castor  or  raw  linseed  oil. 

TRAUMATIC  INFLAMMATION  OF  THE  STOMACH. 

This  disease  results  from  the  presence  of  a  foreign  body.  This 
condition  is  not  rare  in  cattle,  because  these  animals  have  the  habit  of 
swallowing  their  feed  without  careful  chewing,  and  so  nails,  screws, 
hairpins,  ends  of  wire,  and  other  metal  objects  may  be  swallowed 
unconsciously.  Such  objects  gravitate  to  the  second  stomach,  where 
they  may  be  caught  in  the  folds  of  the  lining  mucous  membrane, 
and  in  some  instances  the  wall  of  this  organ  is  perforated.  From  this 
accident,  chronic  indigestion  results.  The  symptoms,  more  or  less 
characteristic,  are  pain  when  getting  up  or  lying  down:  grunting  and 
pain  upon  sudden  motion,  espe<"ially  downhill:  coughing:  pain  on 
pressure  over  the  second  stomach,  which  lies  immediately  above  the 
cartilaginous  prolongation  of  the  sternum.  If  the  presence  of  such  a 
foreign  body  is  recognized,  it  may  be  removed  by  a  difficult  surgical 
operation,  or,  as  is  usually  most  economical,  the  animal  may  be  killed 
for  beef,  if  there  is  no  fever. 

DISEASES  OF  THE  BOWELS. 

DIARRHEA  AND  DYSENTERY. 

[See  also  Gastrointestinal  catarrh,  p.  32.] 

The  word  "  dysentery,"  as  it  is  commonly  used  in  relation  to  the 
diseases  of  animals,  signifies  a  severe  form  of  diarrhea. 

Causes. — Diarrhea  is  a  symptom  of  irritation  of  the  intestines, 
resulting  in  increased  secretion  or  increased  muscular  contractions, 
or  both.  The  irritation  is  sometimes  the  result  of  chilling  from 
exposure,  improper  feeding,  irritant  feeds,  indigestion,  organic  dis- 
eases of  the  intestines,  or  parasites. 

Symptoms. — Passages  from  the  bowels  are  frequent,  at  first  con- 
sisting of  thin  dung,  but  as  the  disease  continues  they  become  watery 
and  offensive  smelling,  and  may  be  even  streaked  with  blood.  At 
first  the  animal  shows  no  constitutional  disturbance,  but  later  it 
becomes  weak  and  may  exhibit  evidence  of  abdominal  pain  by  look- 
ing around  to  the  side,  drawing  the  feet  together,  lying  down,  or 
moving  restlessly.  Sometimes  this  malady  is  accompanied  with 
fever,  great  depression,  loss  of  strength,  rapid  loss  of  flesh,  and  it 
may  terminate  in  death. 

Treatment. — When  the  disease  dej^ends  on  irritating  ])roperties  of 
the  feed  which  has  been  su])plied  to  the  animal,  it  is  advisable  to  give 
a  mild  purgative,  such  as  a  pint  of  castor  or  linseed  oil.    When  the 


DISEASES  OF   THE   DIGESTIVE   ORGANS.  35 

secretions  of  the  bowels  are  irritating,  an  ounce  of  carbonate  of  mag- 
nesia and  half  an  ounce  of  tincture  of  opium  should  be  shaken  up  in 
a  quart  of  linseed  tea  and  given  to  the  animal  three  times  a  day  until 
the  passages  present  a  natural  appearance.  When  there  is  debility, 
want  of  appetite,  no  fever,  but  a  continuance  of  the  watery  discharges 
from  the  bowels,  then  an  astringent  may  be  given.  For  such  cases 
the  following  is  serviceable :  Tannic  acid,  1  ounce ;  powdered  gentian, 
2  ounces;  mix  and  divide  into  12  powders,  one  powder  to  be  given 
three  times  a  day  until  the  passages  present  a  natural  appearance. 
Each  powder  may  be  mixed  with  a  pint  and  a  half  of  water.  Tanno- 
pin  is  a  new  remedy  that  is  most  useful  in  such  cases.  The  dose  is 
from  30  grains  to  2  drams.  Useful  household  remedies  are  raw 
eggs,  strong  coffee,  parched  rye  flour,  or  decoction  of  oak  bark.  In 
all  cases  the  food  must  be  given  sparingly,  and  it  should  be  care- 
fully selected  to  insure  good  quality.  Complete  rest  in  a  box  stall 
is  desirable.  When  diarrhea  is  a  symptom  of  a  malady  characterized 
by  the  presence  of  a  blood  poison,  the  treatment  appropriate  to  such 
disease  must  be  applied. 

SIMPLE   ENTERITIS. 

[See  Gastroenteritis,  p.  33.] 
CROUPOUS  ENTERITIS. 

Under  certain  conditions,  severe  irritation  of  the  digestive  canal 
may,  in  cattle,  cause  a  form  of  inflammation  of  the  intestines  (enter- 
itis) that  is  characterized  by  the  formation  of  a  false  membrane  upon 
the  surface  of  the  lining  membrane  of  the  intestines,  particularly 
the  large  ones. 

SyTTiptoms. — There  is  fever,  depression,  loss  of  appetite,  diarrhea, 
and  in  the  fecal  masses  shreds  of  leathery  false  membrane  may  be 
found.  These  shreds  are  sometimes  mistaken  for  parasites  or  for 
portions  of  the  wall  of  the  intestine. 

Treatment. — Give  a  pound  of  Glauber's  salt,  followed  by  bicar- 
bonate of  soda  in  doses  of  2  otmces  four  times  dail5^ 

ENTERITIS    (OBSTRUCTION    RESULTING   FROM   INVAGINATION,    OR   INTUSSUSCEP- 
TION, TWISTING,  AND  KNOTTING   OF  THE   BOWELS). 

Inflammation  may  arise  from  a  knot  forming  on  some  part  of  the 
small  intestine  from  the  portion  of  the  bowel  becoming  twisted  on 
itself,  or  from  one  part  of  the  bowel  slipping  into  another,  which  is 
termed  invagination.  This  form  of  enteritis  occurs  occasionally  in 
animals  of  the  bovine  species. 

Causes. — The  small  intestine,  which  in  the  ox  rests  on  the  right 
side  of  the  rumen,  is,  from  the  position  which  it  occupies,  predisposed 
to  this  accident.  It  has  been  ascertained  that  animals  which  have 
shown  symptoms  of  this  malady  have  trotted,  galloped,  or  made  other 


36  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

violent  exertions  in  coming  from  drinking,  or  that  they  have  been 
chased  by  dogs  or  by  animals  of  their  own  species  Avhile  at  pasture. 
The  accident  is  most  likel}'  to  occur  among  cattle  on  very  hilly  pas- 
tures. The  danger  of  jumping  or  running  is  greatest  when  the  rumen 
is  distended  with  food. 

Symytomis. — This  form  of  enteritis  or  obstruction  is  manifested  by 
severe  colicky  pains;  the  ox  scrapes  and  strikes  the  gi"Ound  with  his 
front  and  hind  feet  alternately;  keeps  lying  down  and  getting  up 
again;  he  keeps  his  tail  constantly  raised  and  turns  his  nose  fre- 
quently^ to  his  right  flank;  he  is  frequently  bloated,  or  tympanitic, 
on  that  side.  He  refuses  feed  and  does  not  ruminate,  and  for  some 
hours  suffers  severe  pains.  At  first  he  frequently  passes  thin  dung, 
and  also  urinates  frequently,  but  passes  only  a  little  urine  at  a  time. 
On  the  second  day  the  pains  have  become  less  acute;  the  animal 
remains  lying  down;  moans  occasionally;  his  pulse  is  small  and 
quick;  he  still  refuses  feed  and  does  not  ruminate.  At  this  stage  he 
does  not  pass  any  dung,  though  sometimes  a  small  quantity  of  bloody 
mucus  may  be  passed.  The  animal  passes  very  little  urine.  This 
condition  may  continue  for  a  considerable  time,  as  cattle  so  affected 
may  live  for  15  or  even  20  days. 

Post-mortem  appearance. — At  death  the  bowels  are  found  to  be 
misplaced  or  obstructed,  as  mentioned  above,  and  inflamed,  the  in- 
flammation always  originating  at  the  point  where  the  intestine  has 
been  invaginated,  twisted,  or  laiotted.  Sometimes  the  part  is  gan- 
grenous, the  compression  of  the  blood  vessels  preventing  circulation, 
and  thus  causing  the  death  of  the  tissues. 

Treatment. — Purgatives,  anodj'nes,  and  other  remedies  are  of  no 
service  in  such  cases,  and  bleeding  also  fails  to  produce  any  benefit. 
Indeed,  it  is  usually  true  that  in  such  cases  treatment  is  useless. 
Some  cases  are  recorded  in  which  an  incision  has  been  made  in  the 
flank,  so  as  to  enable  the  operator  to  restore  the  intestine  to  its  normal 
position  or  to  remove  the  kink. 

CONSTIPATION. 

Constipation  is  to  be  regarded  rather  as  a  symptom  of  disease  or  of 
faults  in  feeding  than  as  a  disease  in  itself.  It  occurs  in  almost  all 
general  fevers  unless  the  bowels  are  involved  in  local  disease,  in 
obstructions  of  all  kinds,  from  feeding  on  dry,  bulky  feed,  etc.  In 
order  to  remove  the  constipation  the  treatment  must  be  applied  to 
remove  the  causes  which  give  rise  to  it.  Calves  sometimes  suffer 
from  constipation  immediately  after  birth  when  the  meconium  that 
accumulates  in  the  bowels  before  birth  is  not  passed.  In  such  cases, 
give  a  rectal  inpection  of  warm  water  and  an  ounce  of  castor  oil 
shaken  up  with  an  ounce  of  new  milk.    The  mother's  milk  is  the  best 


DISEASES   OF    THE   DIGESTIVE   ORGANS.  37 

food  to  prevent  constipation  in  the  new-born  calf,  as  it  contains  a 
large  amount  of  fatty  matter  which  renders  it  laxative  in  its  effects. 
'  It  is  usually  better  to  treat  habitual  constipation  by  a  change  of 
diet  than  by  medicine.  Flaxseed  is  a  good  feed  laxative.  If  the 
constipation  has  lasted  long,  repeated  small  doses  of  purgatives  are 
better  than  a  single  large  dose. 

INTESTINAL  WORMS. 

[See  chapter  on  "  The  animal  parasites  of  cattle,"  p.  510.] 
RUPTURES   (VENTRAL  HERNIA). 

Ventral  hernia,  or  rupture,  is  an  escape  of  some  one  of  the  abdom- 
inal organs  through  a  rupture  in  the  abdominal  muscles,  the  skin 
remaining  intact.  The  rumen,  the  small  mtestine,  or  part  of  the 
large  intestine,  and  the  fourth  stomach  are  the  parts  which  usually 
form  a  ventral  hernia  in  bovine  animals. 

Causes. — Hernia  is  frequently  produced  by  blows  of  the  horns, 
kicks,  and  falls.  In  old  cows  hernia  may  sometimes  occur  without 
any  direct  injury. 

Hernia  of  the  rumen. — Hernia  of  the  rumen  is  generally  situated 
on  the  left  side  of  the  abdomen,  on  account  of  the  situation  of  the 
rumen.  In  exceptional  cases  it  may  take  place  on  the  right  side, 
and  in  such  cases  it  also  generally  happens  that  some  folds  of  the 
intestine  pass  into  the  hernial  sac.  Hernias  have  been  classified  into 
simple  or  complicated,  recent  or  old,  traumatic  (from  mechanical 
injury)  or  spontaneous. 

In  recent  traumatic  hernia  there  is  swelling  on  the  left  side  of  the 
lower  part  of  the  abdomen.  The  swelling  is  greatest  in  the  cases  of 
hernia  which  are  situated  on  the  lower  part  of  the  abdomen.  Unless 
an  examination  is  made  iimnediately  after  the  injury  has  been  in- 
flicted it  is  difficult,  and  sometimes  impossible,  to  ascertain  the  exact 
extent  of  the  rupture,  owing  tg  the  swelling  which  subsequently  takes 
place.  Frequently  there  is  no  loss  of  appetite,  fever,  or  other  general 
symptoms  attending  the  injurj^  From  the  twelfth  to  the  fifteenth 
day  the  swelling  has  generally  subsided  to  such  an  extent  that  it  is 
possible  by  an  examination  to  determine  the  extent  of  the  rupture. 

In  old  cows  what  is  termed  spontaneous  hernia  may  sometimes  take 
place  without  any  direct  injury.  The  occurrence  of  this  form  of 
hernia  is  explained  by  the  increase  in  the  size  of  the  abdomen,  which 
takes  place  in  an  advanced  stage  of  pregnancy,  causing  a  thinning 
and  stretching  of  the  muscular  fibers,  which  at  last  may  rupture,  or 
give  way.  Such  hernias  frequently  occur  about  the  end  of  the  period 
of  gestation,  and  in  some  instances  have  contained  the  right  sac  of 
the  rumen,  the  omentum,  the  small  and  large  intestines,  a  portion  of 
the  liver,  and  the  pregnant  uterus. 


38  DISEASES  OF   CATTLE. 

In  old  hernias  the  swelling  is  soft  and  elastic,  and  if  they  have  not 
contracted  adhesions  to  the  sides  of  the  laceration,  they  can  be  made 
to  disappear  by  pressure  carefully  applied.  Sometimes  this  accident 
is  complicated  by  a  rupture  of  the  rumen,  constituting  a  complicated 
hernia.  If  a  portion  of  the  contents  of  the  rumen  escape  into  the 
abdomen,  the  case  will  be  aggravated  by  the  occurrence  of  peritonitis. 

Hernia  of  the  bowel. — When  the  intestines  (PL  III.  fig.  6)  form 
the  contents  of  the  hernia,  it  will  be  situated  at  the  right  side  of  the 
abdomen.  In  an  intestinal  hernia  the  swelling  is  usually  not  painful, 
of  a  doughy  consistence  or  elastic,  according  as  the  intestine  does  or 
does  not  contain  alimentary  matter.  This  swelling  can  generally  be 
made  to  disappear  h\  pressure,  and  when  it  has  been  reduced  one 
can  easily  recognize  the  direction  and  extent  of  the  hernial  opening. 
Hernias  of  the  bowel  which  are  situated  at  the  upper  and  right  side 
of  the  abdomen  are  usually  formed  by  the  small  intestine.  They  are 
less  easily  reduced  than  a  hernia  in  a  lower  situation,  but  when 
reduction  has  been  effected  they  are  less  readily  reproduced  than 
those  occurring  lower.  In  hernias  of  the  small  intestme,  adhesion  of 
the  protruding  parts  to  the  walls  of  the  opening,  or  strangulation, 
are  complications  M'hich  sometimes  take  place.  If  adhesion  has  taken 
place  the  hernia  can  not  be  reduced  by  pressure,  and  when  strangu- 
lation has  occurred  the  animal  shows  symptoms  of  pain — ^^is  restless, 
turns  its  nose  to  the  painful  part,  and  shows  those  symptoms  which 
are  usually  collectively  designated  under  the  term  colic.  If  relief  is 
not  afforded,  the  animal  will  die. 

Hernia  or  the  rennet,  or  fourth  stomach. — This  disease  occa- 
sionally occurs  in  calves  and  is  usually  caused  by  a  blow  from  a  cow's 
horn  on  the  right  flank  of  the  calf.  After  such  an  accident  a  swell- 
ing forms  on  the  right  flank  near  the  last  rib.  This  swellmg  may  be 
neither  hot  nor  painful,  even  at  first,  and  is  soft  to  the  touch.  It  can 
be  made  to  disappear  by  careful  pressure,  when  the  sides  of  the  aper- 
ture through  which  it  has  passed  can  be  felt.  The  application  of 
pressure  so  as  to  cause  the  disappearance  of  the  hernia  is  best  made 
immediately  after  the  occurrence  of  the  accident,  or  when  the  edema 
which  accompanies  the  swelling  has  disappeared. 

Treatment. — ^lien  a  hernia  is  reducible — that  is.  can  be  pushed 
back  into  the  abdomen — then,  if  it  is  of  recent  occurrence,  it  is  advis- 
able to  maintain  the  natural  position  of  the  parts  by  bandaging  and 
to  allow  the  walls  of  the  laceration  to  grow  together.  The  bowels 
should  be  kept  reasonably  empty  by  avoiding  the  use  of  bulky  feed, 
and  the  aiiunal  must  be  kept  quiet. 

The  following  method  of  bandaging  is  recommended  by  Bouley : 

First  prepare  a  bandage  (must  be  of  strong  material),  about  10  yards  long 
find  between  3  and  4  inches  broad,  and  a  flexible  and  solid  piece  of  pasteboard 
adapted  in  size  to  the  surface  of  the  hernia.    The  protruding  organ  must  then 


DISEASES   OP   THE   DIGESTIVE   ORGANS.  39 

be  replaced  in  the  abdomen  and  maiutained  in  that  position  during  the  applica- 
tion of  the  bandage.  This  being  done,  a  layer  of  melted  pitch  and  tuut)eutine 
is  quickly  spread  on  the  skin  covering  the  seat  of  the  hernia,  so  as  to  extend 
somewhat  beyond  that  space.  This  adhesive  layer  is  then  covered  with  a  layer 
of  fine  tow,  then  a  new  layer  of  pitch  and  turpentine  is  spread  on  the  tow,  and 
the  piece  of  pasteboard  is  applied  on  the  layer  of  pitch,  its  outer  surface  being 
covered  with  the  same  preparation.  Lastly,  the  bandage,  adhering  to  the  piece 
of  pasteboard,  to  the  skin,  and  to  the  dilferent  turns  which  it  makes  around  the 
body,  is  carefully  applied  so  as  to  form  an  immovable,  rigid,  and  solid  bandage, 
which  will  retain  the  hernia  long  enough  for  the  wound  in  the  abdominal  walls 
to  heal  permanently. 

If  the  hernia  is  old  and  small  it -may  be  treated  by  injecting  a 
strong  solution  of  common  salt  about  the  edges  of  the  tear.  This 
causes  swelling  and  inflammation,  which,  respectively,  forces  the  pro- 
truded organ  back  and  closes  the  opening.  There  is  some  risk 
attached  to  this  method  of  treatment. 

In  small,  old,  ventral  hernias  the  method  of  compressing  and 
sloughing  off  the  skin  has  been  used  successfully.  If  the  hernia  is 
large  a  radical  operation  will  be  necessary,  and  this  is  also  true  when 
the  symptoms  indicate  that  a  hernia  is  strangulated.  This  operation 
is  performed  b}^  cutting  down  on  the  hernia,  restoring  the  organ  to 
the  abdominal  cavity,  and  then  closing  the  wound  w^th  two  sets  of 
stitches;  the  inner  stitches,  in  the  muscular  wall,  should  be  made 
with  catgut  and  the  outer  stitches,  in  the  skin,  may  be  made  with  silk 
or  sih-^er  wire.  The  strictest  surgical  cleanliness  must  be  observed. 
Bleeding  vessels  should  be  tied.  Then  a  compress  composed  of  ten 
or  twelve  folds  of  cloth  must  be  placed  smoothly  over  the  seat  of 
injury  and  a  bandage  applied  around  the  body,  the  two  ends  being 
fastened  at  the  back.  In  the  smaller  kinds  of  hernia,  nitric  acid  may 
sometimes  be  applied  with  success.  This  treatment  should  not  be 
applied  until  the  swelling  and  inflammation  attending  the  appearance 
of  the  hernia  have  subsided ;  then,  the  contents  of  the  hernia  having 
been  returned,  the  surface  of  skin  corresponding  to  it  is  sponged  over 
with  a  solution  composed  of  1  part  of  nitric  acid  to  2  of  water. 
This  treatment  acts  by  exciting  considerable  inflammation,  which 
has  the  effect  of  causing  swelling,  and  thus  frequently  closing  the 
hernial  opening  and  preventing  the  contents  of  the  sac  from  return- 
ing. A  second  apj)lication  should  not  be  made  until  the  inflammation 
excited  by  the  first  has  subsided.  In  what  is  termed  spontaneous 
hernia  it  is  useless  to  applj^  any  kind  of  treatment. 

Umbilical  hernia. — The  umbilicus,  or  naval,  is  the  aperture 
through  which  the  blood  vessels  pass  from  the  mouth  to  the  fetus, 
and  naturally  the  sides  of  this  aperture  ought  to  adhere  or  unite  after 
birth.  In  very  young  animals,  and  sometimes  in  new-born  calves, 
this  aperture  in  the  abdominal  muscles  remains  open  and  a  part  of 
the  bowel  or  a  portion  of  the  mesentery  may  slip  through  the  open- 


40  DISEASES    OF   CATTLE. 

ing,  constituting  what  is  called  umbilical  hernia.  The  Avail  of  the  sac 
is  formed  by  the  skin,  which  is  covered  on  the  inner  siu-face  by  a 
layer  of  cellular  tissue,  and  within  this  there  is  sometimes,  but  not 
always,  a  layer  of  peritoneum.  The  contents  of  the  hernia  may  be 
formed  by  a  part  of  the  bowel,  by  a  portion  of  the  peritoneum,  or  may 
contain  portions  of  both  peritoneum  and  bowel.  AVhen  the  sac  con- 
tains only  the  peritoneum  it  has  a  doughy  feel,  but  when  it  is  formed 
b}'^  a  portion  of  the  bowel  it  is  more  elastic  on  pressue. 

Causes. — In  the  new-born  animal  the  opening  of  the  naval  is  gen- 
erally large,  and  may  sometimes  give  Avay  to  the  pressure  of  the 
bowel  on  account  of  the  weak  and  relaxed  condition  of  the  abdominal 
muscles.  This  defective  and  abnormal  condition  of  the  umbilicus  is 
frequently  hereditary.  It  may  be  occasioned  by  roughly  pulling 
away  the  umbilical  cord;  through  kicks  or  blows  on  the  belly; 
through  any  severe  straining  by  which  the  sides  of  the  navel  are 
stretched  apart.  We  may  mention  in  this  connection  that  it  is  best 
in  new-born  calves  to  tie  the  umbilical  cord  tightly  about  2  inches 
from  the  navel,  and  then  to  leave  it  alone,  Avhen  in  most  cases  it  will 
drop  off  in  a  few  days,  leaving  the  navel  closed. 

Treatment. — It  is  well  to  bear  in  mind  that  man}^  and  especially 
the  smaller,  umbilical  hernias  heal  spontaneously;  that  is,  nature 
effects  a  cure.  As  the  animal  gets  older  the  abdominal  muscles  get 
stronger  and  possess  more  power  of  resistance  to  pressure,  the  bowels 
become  larger  and  do  not  pass  so  readily  through  a  small  opening,  so 
that  from  a  combination  of  causes  there  is  a  gradual  grooving  to- 
gether or  adhesion  of  the  sides  of  the  navel.  In  cases  of  umbilical 
hernia  in  which  there  are  no  indications  that  a  spontaneous  cure  will 
take  place,  the  calf  should  be  laid  on  its  back,  immediately  on  this 
being  done  the  hernia  will  often  disappear  into  the  abdomen.  If 
it  does  not,  its  reduction  may  be  brought  about  b}'  gentle  handling, 
endeavoring,  if  need  be,  to  empty  the  organs  forming  the  hernia 
before  returning  them  into  the  abdomen.  After  the  hernia  has  been 
returned,  the  hair  should  be  clipped  from  the  skin  coA'ering  it  and  a 
compress  composed  of  10  or  12  folds  of  linen  or  cotton  should  be 
applied,  first  smearing  the  skin  with  pitch  and  then  a  bandage  about 
3  inches  wide  should  be  passed  round  the  bodj'  so  as  to  retain  the 
compress  in  position.  The  lower  part  of  the  compress  should  be 
smeared  with  pitch,  and  also  those  portions  of  the  bandage  which 
pass  over  it,  so  as  to  keep  it  solid  and  prevent  it  from  shifting.  In 
some  cases  it  will  be  found  that  the  contents  of  the  sac  can  not  be 
returned  into  the  abdomen,  and  this  generally  arises  from  the  fact 
that  some  part  of  the  contents  of  the  sac  has  grown  to  or  become 
adherent  to  the  edges  of  the  umbilical  opening.  In  such  a  case  the 
skin  must  be  carefully  laid  open  in  the  long  direction,  the  adhesions 
of  the  protruding  organs  carefully  separated  from  the  umbilicus,  and 


DISEASES   OF    THE   DIGESTIVE   OBGANS.  41- 

after  the  protruding  parts  have  been  returned  into  the  abdomen,  the 
sides  of  the  umbilicus  must  be  freshened  if  necessary  by  paring,  and 
then  the  edges  of  the  opening  brought  together  by  catgut  stitches; 
the  wound  in  the  skin  must  then  also  be  brought  together  by  stitches. 
The  Avound  must  be  carefully  dressed  every  day  and  a  bandage  passed 
round  the  body  so  as  to  cover  and  protect  the  part  operated  on. 

In  small  hernias  nitric  acid  has  been  used  successfully  in  the  same 
manner  as  has  been  described  in  the  treatment  of  ventral  hernia. 
Sulphuric  acid  has  also  been  used  for  a  similar  purpose,  diluting  it 
to  the  extent  of  1  part  of  acid  to  3  or  5  of  water.  In  thin-skinned 
animals  the  Aveaker  preparations  ought  to  be  preferred,  and  caution 
must  be  exercised  in  using  such  preparations  so  as  not  to  destroy 
the  tissues  on  which  they  are  applied. 

Another  method  of  treatment  is,  after  the  contents  of  the  sac  have 
been  returned  into  the  abdomen,  to  tie  a  piece  of  strong  waxed  cord 
round  the  pendulous  portion  which  formed  the  outer  covering  of  the 
hernia.  The  string  is  apt  to  slacken  after  two  or  three  days,  when  a 
new  piece  of  cord  should  be  applied  above  the  first  one.  The  con- 
striction of  the  skin  sets  up  inflammation,  which  generally  extends  to 
the  umbilicus  and  causes  the  edges  to  adhere  together,  and  by  the 
time  the  portion  of  skin  below  the  ligature  has  lost  its  vitality  and 
dropped  off,  the  umbilicus  is  closed  and  there  is  no  danger  of  the 
abdominal  organs  protruding  through  it.  This  is  what  takes  place 
when  this  method  has  a  favorable  result,  though  if  the  umlnlicus  does 
not  become  adherent  and  the  skin  sloughs,  the  bowels  will  protrude 
through  the  opening. 

Gut-tie  (peritoneal  hernia). — In  peritoneal  hernia  of  the  ox  a 
loop  or  laiuckle  of  intestine  enters  from  the  abdomen  into  a  rent  in 
that  part  of  the  peritoneum  which  is  situated  at  the  margin  of  the 
hip  bone  or  it  passes  under  the  remains  of  the  spermatic  cord,  the 
end  of  which  may  be  grown  fast  to  the  inner  inguinal  ring.  The 
onward  pressure  of  the  bowel,  as  well  as  the  occasional  turning  of  the 
latter  round  the  spermatic  cord,  is  the  cause  of  the  cord  exercising 
considerable  pressure  on  the  bowel,  which  occasions  irritation,  ob- 
structs the  passage  of  excrement,  and  excites  inflammation,  which 
terminates  in  gangrene  and  death. 

The  rent  in  the  peritoneum  is  situated  at  the  upper  and  front  part 
of  the  pelvis,  nearer  to  the  sacrum  than  the  pubis. 

Causes. — Among  the  causes  of  peritoneal  hernia  considerable  im- 
portance is  attached  to  a  method  of  castration  which  is  practiced  in 
certain  districts,  viz,  the  tearing  or  rupturing  of  the  spermatic  cord 
by  main  force  instead  of  dividing  it  at  a  proper  distance  above  the 
testicle  in  a  surgical  manner.  After  this  violent  and  rough  method 
of  operating,  the  cord  retracts  into  the  abdomen  and  its  stump  be- 
comes adherent  to  some  part  of  the  peritoneum,  or  it  may  wind 


42  DISEASES  OF   CATTLE. 

around  the  bowel  and  then  the  stump  becomes  adherent,  so  that 
strangulation  of  the  bowel  results.  The  rough  dragging  on  the  cord 
may  also  cause  a  tear  in  the  peritoneum,  the  result  of  which  need  not 
be  described.  The  severe  exertion  of  ascending  hills  and  mountains, 
drawing  heavy  loads,  or  the  straining  which  oxen  undergo  while 
fighting  each  other  may  also  give  rise  to  peritoneal  hernia. 

Sy7)i2)toms. — The  ox  suddenly  becomes  very  restless,  stamps  with 
his  feet,  moves  backward  and  forward,  hurriedly  lies  down,  rises, 
moves  his  tail  uneasily,  and  kicks  at  his  belly  with  the  foot  of  the 
affected  side.  The  pain  evinced  may  diminish  but  soon  returns 
again.  In  the  early  stage  there  are  frequent  passages  of  dung,  but 
after  the  lapse  of  18  or  24  hours  this  ceases,  the  bowel  apparently 
being  emptied  to  the  point  of  strangulation,  and  the  passages  now 
consist  only  of  a  little  mucus  mixed  with  blood.  When  injections  are 
given  at  this  time  the  water  passes  out  of  the  bowel  without  even 
being  colored.  The  animal  lies  down  on  the  side  where  the  hernia 
exists  and  stretches  out  his  hind  feet  in  a  backward  direction.  These 
two  particular  symptoms  serve  to  distinguish  this  affection  from  en- 
teritis and  invagination  of  the  bowel.  As  time  passes  the  animal 
becomes  quieter,  but  this  cessation  of  pain  may  indicate  that  gangrene 
of  the  bowel  has  set  in,  and  may.  therefore,  under  certain  circum- 
stances, be  considered  a  precursor  of  death.  Gangrene  may  take 
place  in  from  four  to  six  days,  when  perforation  of  the  bowel  may 
occur  and  death  result  in  a  short  time. 

Treatinent. — In  the  first  place  the  ox  should  be  examined  by  pass- 
ing the  oiled  hand  and  arm  into  the  rectum;  the  hand  should  be 
passed  along  the  margin  of  the  pelvis,  beginning  at  the  sacrum  and 
continuing  downward  toward  the  inguinal  ring,  when  a  soft,  painful 
swelling  will  be  felt,  which  may  vary  from  the  size  of  an  apple  to  that 
of  the  two  fists.  This  swelling  will  be  felt  to  be  tightly  compressed 
by  the  spermatic  cord.  It  very  rarely  happens  that  there  is  any 
similar  swelling  on  the  left  side,  though  in  such  cases  it  is  best  to  make 
a  thorough  examination.  The  bowel  has  sometimes  been  released 
from  its  position  by  driving  the  ox  down  a  hill;  by  causing  him  to 
jump  from  a  height  of  2  feet  to  the  ground;  the  expedient  of  trot- 
ting him  also  has  been  resorted  to  witli  the  hope  that  the  jolting 
movement  might  bring  about  a  release  of  the  bowel.  If  the  simple  ex- 
pedients mentioned  have  been  tried  and  failed,  then  the  hand  being 
passed  into  the  rectum  should  be  pressed  gently  on  the  swelling  in  an 
upward  and  forward  direction,  so  as  to  endeavor  to  push  the  im- 
prisoned portion  of  the  bowel  back  into  the  abdomen.  While  this  is 
being  done  the  ox's  hind  feet  should  stand  on  higher  ground  than  the 
front,  so  as  to  favor  the  slipping  out  of  the  bowel  by  its  own  weight, 
and  at  the  same  time  an  assistant  should  squeeze  the  animal's  loins, 
so  as  to  cause  it  to  bend  downward  and  so  relax  tlie  band  formed  by 


DISEASES   OF   THE   DIGESTIVE   OEGANS.  43 

the  spermatic  cord.  If  the  imprisoned  portion  of  gut  is  freed,  which 
may  be  ascertained  by  the  disappearance  of  the  swelling,  the  usual 
sounds  produced  by  the  bowels  moving  in  the  abdomen  will  be  heard, 
and  in  a  few  hours  the  feces  and  urine  will  be  passed  as  usual.  If  the 
means  mentioned  fail  to  release  the  imprisoned  portion  of  the  gut, 
then  an  incision  about  4  inches  long  must  be  made  in  the  right  flank 
in  a  downward  direction,  the  hand  introduced  into  the  abdomen,  the 
situation  and  condition  of  swelling  exactly  ascertained,  and  then  a 
probe-pointed  Imife  inserted  between  the  imprisoned  bowel  and  band 
compressing  it,  and  turned  outward  against  the  band,  the  latter 
being  then  cautiously  divided  and  the  imprisoned  gut  allowed  to 
escape,  or,  if  necessar}^,  the  bowel  should  be  drawn  gently  from  its 
position  into  the  abdomen.  The  wound  in  the  flank  must  be  brought 
together  in  the  same  way  as  in  the  case  of  the  wound  made  in  operat- 
ing for  impaction  of  the  rumen. 

WOUNDS  OF  THE  ABDOMEN. 

A  wound  of  the  abdomen  may  merely  penetrate  the  skin;  but  as 
such  cases  are  not  attended  with  much  danger,  nor  their  treatment 
with  much  difficulty,  we  will  consider  here  merely  those  wounds 
which  penetrate  the  entire  thickness  of  the  abdominal  walls  and 
expose  to  a  greater  or  less  extent  the  organs  contained  in  that  cavity. 

Causes. — Such  accidents  may  be  occasioned  by  falling  on  fragments 
of  broken  glass  or  other  sharp  objects.  A  blow  from  the  horn  of 
another  animal  ma}^  penetrate  the  abdomen.  Exposure  and  pro- 
trusion of  some  of  the  abdominal  organs  may  also  be  occasioned  by 
the  incautious  use  of  caustics  in  the  treatment  of  umbilical  or  ventral 
hernia.  The  parts  which  generally  escape  through  an  abdominal 
wound  are  the  small  intestine  and  floating  colon. 

Symptoms. — When  the  abdominal  w^ound  is  small,  the  bowel  ex- 
posed presents  the  appearance  of  a  small  round  tumor,  but  in  a  few 
moments  a  loop  of  intestine  may  emerge  from  the  opening.  The  ani- 
mal then  shows  symptoms  of  severe  pain  by  pawing  with  his  feet, 
which  has  the  effect  of  accelerating  the  passage  of  new  loops  of  in- 
testine through  the  wound,  so  that  the  mass  which  they  form  may 
even  touch  the  ground.  The  pain  becomes  so  great  that  the  ox  now 
not  only  paws  but  lies  down  and  rolls,  thus  tearing  and  crushing  his 
bowels.  In  such  cases  it  is  best  to  slaughter  the  animal  at  once ;  but 
in  the  case  of  a  valuable  animal  in  Avhich  tearing  and  crushing  of  the 
bowels  has  not  taken  place  the  bowels  should  be  washed  with  freshly 
boiled  water  reduced  to  the  temperature  of  the  body  and  returned 
and  the  wounds  in  the  muscle  and  skin  brought  together  in  a  manner 
somewhat  similar  to  that  described  in  speaking  of  ventral  hernia. 


44  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

DISEASES  OF  THE  LIVER  AND  SPLEEN. 

JAUNDICE    (THE  YELLOWS,   OR  CONGESTION  OF   THE  LIVER). 

When  jaundice  exists,  there  is  a  yellow  appearance  of  the  white  of 
the  eyes  and  of  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth.  A  similar  aspect 
of  the  skin  may  also  be  observed  in  animals  which  are  either  partly 
or  altogether  covered  with  white  hair.  Jaundice  is  then  merely  a 
sjanptom  of  disease  and  ought  to  direct  attention  to  ascertaining,  if 
possible,  the  cause  or  causes  which  have  given  rise  to  it.  A  swollen 
condition  of  the  mucous  membrane  of  that  part  of  the  bowel  called 
the  duodenum  may  produce  jaundice,  as  that  mechanically  closes  the 
orifice  of  the  biliary  duct.  In  constipation  there  is  an  inactive  or  tor- 
pid condition  of  the  bowel,  and  the  bile  which  passes  into  the  intes- 
tine may  be  absorbed  and  cause  the  yellow  staining  of  jaundice. 
Jaundice  is  one  of  the  symptom.s  of  Texas  fever.  It  may  also  arise 
from  the  presence  of  parasites  or  gallstones  in  the  ducts,  forming  a 
mechanical  obstruction  to  the  onward  flow  of  bile.  The  conditions 
under  which  jaundice  most  commonly  calls  for  treatment  are  when 
cattle  have  been  highly  fed  and  kept  in  a  state  of  inactivity.  At  such 
time  there  is  an  excess  of  nutritive  elements  carried  into  the  blood, 
which  is  associated  with  increased  fullness  of  the  portal  vein  and 
hepatic  artery.  "^^Hien  continued  high  feeding  has  produced  this 
congested  state  of  the  liver,  the  functions  of  that  organ  become  dis- 
ordered, so  that  a  considerable  portion  of  the  bile,  instead  of  being 
excreted  and  passing  into  the  intestine,  is  absorbed  by  the  hepatic 
veins. 

The  structui'e  of  the  liver  is  shown  in  Plate  IV. 

^Symptoms. — This  disease,  although  rare,  occurs  most  frequently 
among  stall-fed  cattle.  Pressure  along  the  margin  of  the  short  ribs 
on  the  right  side  produces  pain ;  the  appetite  is  poor  and  the  animal 
shows  hardly  any  inclmation  to  drink ;  the  mucous  membranes  of  the 
eye  and  mouth  are  yellow,  the  urine  has  a  ^^ellow  or  brown  appear- 
ance, the  animal  lies  down  much  and  moves  with  reluctance,  moans 
occasionally,  and  has  a  tottering  gait.  The  ears  and  horns  are  alter- 
nately hot  and  cold ;  in  cows  the  secretion  of  milk  is  much  diminished, 
and  that  which  is  secreted  has  a  bitter  taste;  sometimes  the  animal 
has  a  dry,  painful  cough  and  presents  a  dull,  stupefied  appearance. 

Treatment. — In  such  cases  it  is  advisable  to  produce 'a  free  action 
of  the  bowels,  so  as  to  remove  the  usually  congested  condition  of  the 
portal  vein  and  liver.  For  this  purpose  the  administration  of  the 
following  dose  is  recommended:  Sulphate  of  soda,  IG  ounces; 
molasses,  1  pint;  warm  water,  1  quart.  The  sulphate  of  soda  is  dis- 
solved by  stirring  it  up  in  tepid  water.  Following  this  the  animal 
should  have  a  heaping  tablespoonful  of  artificial  Carlsbad  salt  in 
the  feed  three  times  daily.    This  treatment  may  be  assisted  by  giv- 


DISEASES  OF   THE   DIGESTIVE  OEGANS.  45 

ing  occasional  injections  of  warm  water  and  soap.  The  diet  should 
be  laxative  and  moderate  in  quantity  and  may  consist  of  coarse  bran 
mash,  pulped  roots,  grass  in  the  season,  and  hay  in  moderate 
quantity. 

HEPATITIS    (INFLAMMATION  OF  THE  LIVER). 

Hepatitis  is  an  inflammation  of  the  li^er  and  usually  occurs  as  a 
complication  of  some  infectious  disease.  It  may  also  occur  as  a 
complication  of  gastrointestinal  catarrh  or  in  hot  weather  from 
overheating  or  damaged  (putrid  or  fermented)  feeds. 

Symptoms. — The  symptoms  are  sometimes  obscure  and  their  real 
significance  is  frequently  overlooked.  The  most  prominent  symp- 
toms are  yellowness  of  the  white  of  the  eye  and  of  the  membrane 
lining  the  mouth;  the  appetite  is  poor,  the  body  presents  an  emaci- 
ated appearance,  the  feces  are  light  colored,  while  the  urine  is  likely 
to  be  unusually  dark ;  there  is  thirst,  and  pain  is  caused  by  pressing 
over  the  liver.  The  gait  is  weak  and  the  animal  lies  down  more 
than  usual,  and  while  doing  so  frequently  rests  its  head  on  the  side 
of  its  chest. 

Treatm,ent. — Give  a  purge  of  Glauber's  salts  and  after  it  has  oper- 
ated give  artificial  Carlsbad  salts  in  each  feed,  as  advised  under 
"  Jaundice."  Give  green  feed  and  plenty  of  water.  Oil  of  turpen- 
tine should  be  rubbed  in  well  once  a  day  over  the  region  of  the  liver. 
The  skin  on  which  it  should  be  applied  extends  from  the  false  ribs 
on  the  right  side  to  6  inches  in  front  of  the  last  one,  and  from  the 
backbone  to  12  inches  on  the  right  side  of  it. 

FLUKE  DISEASE. 

[See  chapter  on  "  The  animal  parasites?  of  cattle,"  p.  510.] 
SPLENITIS   (INFLAMMATION  OF  THE  SPLEEN). 

This  disease  occurs  almost  solely  as  a  result  of  the  existence  of 
some  infectious  disease,  and  the  symptoms  caused  by  it  merge  with 
the  symptoms  of  the  accompany  causative  disease.  The  spleen  is 
seriously  involved  and  iDecomes  enlarged  and  soft  in  Texas  fever, 
anthrax,  and  blood  poisoning. 

DISEASES  OF  THE  PERITONEUM. 

PERITONITIS. 

Peritonitis  consists  in  an  inflammation  of  the  peritoneum,  which  is 
the  thin,  delicate  membrane  that  lines  the  abdomen  and  covers  the 
abdominal  organs. 

Causes. — Wounds  are  the  usual  cause  in  cattle.  The  wound  may 
be  of  the  abdominal  wall  or  of  the  intestines,  stomach,  or  uterus ;  or 
inflammation  may  extend  from  one  of  the  organs  of  the  abdominal 


46  DISEASES  OF   CATTLE. 

cavity  to  the  peritoneum ;  so  this  disease  may  complicate  enteritis  or 
inflamed  womb.  A  sliarp  metal  body  may  i^erforate  the  second 
stomach  and  allow  the  gastric  contents  to  escape,  irritating  the  peri- 
toneum.   This  disease  may  follow  castration  or  operation  for  hernia. 

Symptoms. — A  continuous  or  occasional  shivering;  the  animal  lies 
down,  but  appears  uneasy;  it  frequently  turns  its  head  toward  its 
belly  and  lows  plaintively;  pressure  on  the  flanks  produces  pain;  has 
no  appetite;  muzzle  is  dry  and  no  rumination;  while  standing,  its  legs 
are  placed  well  under  its  body ;  pulse  small  and  hard.  The  evacua- 
tions from  the  bowels  are  dry  and  hard.  If  this  disease  is  compli- 
cated by  the  presence  of  inflammation  of  the  bowels,  the  j)ain  is  more 
severe  and  the  animal  is  more  restless.  The  skm  is  cold  and  dry  in 
the  early  stage  of  this  disease,  but  in  a  more  advanced  stage  this  con- 
dition may  be  succeeded  by  heat  of  the  skin  and  quick  breathing. 
The  fits  of  trembling,  uneasiness,  small  and  hard  pulse,  and  tension  of 
the  left  flank  are  symptoms  the  presence  of  which  would  enable  one 
to  reach  the  conclusion  that  peritonitis  exists. 

Post-mortem  appearance. — The  membrane  lining  the  abdomen  and 
covering  the  surface  of  the  bowels  is  reddened  to  a  greater  or  less 
extent,  and  there  is  usually  considerable  serous,  or  watery,  fluid  col- 
lected in  the  abdomen. 

Treatment. — When  we  have  to  do  with  the  form  of  peritonitis  re- 
sulting from  an  injury,  as  when  the  horn  of  another  animal  has  been 
thrust  tlirough  the  abdominal  walls,  this  lesion  must  be  treated  in 
accordance  with  directions  before  given,  but  the  general  treatment 
must  be  similar  to  that  which  follows.  Peritonitis  resultmg  from 
castration  or  from  parturient  fever  must  also  be  treated  in  connec- 
tion with  the  special  conditions  which  give  rise  to  it,  as  the  general 
treatment  of  this  disease  must  be  modified  to  some  extent  by  the 
exciting  cause. 

The  aim  must  be  to  discover  and  remove  the  cause.  The  cause 
must  be  treated  according  to  its  nature.  Harms  strongly  recommends 
borax  in  the  treatment  of  peritonitis.  He  gives  6  ounces  in  the  first 
24  hours,  divided  into  three  doses,  and  afterwards  he  gives  6  drams 
three  times  daily.  Opium  in  doses  of  2  to  3  drams  may  be  given. 
To  bring  on  evacuations  of  the  bowels  it  is  better  to  give  rectal  injec- 
tions than  to  administer  purges.  The  strength  may  be  sustained  by 
coffee,  whisky,  or  camphor. 

The  body  should  be  warmly  clothed,  and  it  is  advisable,  when  prac- 
ticable, to  have  a  blanket  which  has  been  wrung  out  of  hot  water 
placed  over  the  abdomen,  then  covered  by  several  dry  blankets,  which 
are  maintained  in  position  by  straps  or  ropes  passing  round  the  body. 
The  wet  blanket  must  be  changed  as  it  cools — ^the  object  of  treatment 
being  to  Avarm  the  surface  of  the  body  and  to  determine  as  much 
blood  to  the  skin  as  possible.     The  diet  should  consist  of  laxative 


DISEASES   OF    THE   DIGESTIVE   ORGANS.  47 

food  and  drinks,  such  as  linseed  tea.  If  peritonitis  assumes  chronic 
form  the  diet  should  be  nutritions,  such  as  selected  clover  hay,  linseed 
cake,  grass,  etc.,  and  iodid  of  potassium  should  be  given  three  times 
a  day  in  gram  doses  dissolved  in  a  j)int  of  water. 

DROPSY  OF  THE  ABDOMEN    (ASCITES). 

In  this  disease  there  is  a  serous,  or  watery,  effusion  in  the  cavity 
of  the  abdomen. 

Causes. — When  old  animals  are  fed  on  innutritions  feed  or  when 
reduced  hy  disease,  they  become  anemic :  in  other  words,  their  blood 
becomes  impoverished  and  drops}'^  may  follow.  An  innutritions  and 
insufficient  diet  produces  the  same  effect  in  J^oung  animals.  It  is  one 
of  the  results  of  peritonitis,  and  may  also  arise  from  acute  or  chronic 
inflammation  of  the  liver,  such  as  is  of  common  occurrence  when 
flukes  are  present  in  the  liver  in  large  numbers.  Heart  disease  and 
chronic  lung  disease  may  be  followed  by  ascites.  It  is  sometimes,  in 
calves,  a  symptom  of  infestation  with  worms. 

Syrivptoms. — A  gradual  increase  in  the  size  of  the  abdomen  at  its 
lower  part,  AThile  the  flanks  becomes  hollow ;  pallor  of  the  mucous 
membrane  of  the  mouth  and  eye;  weak  and  sluggish  gait:  want  of 
appetite,  and  irregularity  in  ruminating.  On  percussion  or  tapping 
the  surface  of  the  abdomen  with  the  fingers,  a  dull  sound  is  produced. 
If  the  hand  and  arm  are  oiled  and  passed  into  the  rectum  as  far  as 
possible,  on  moving  the  hand  from  one  side  to  the  other  the  fluctua- 
tion caused  by  the  presence  of  fluid  in  the  abdomen  may  be  felt. 

Treattnent, — :If  possible  the  cause  must  be  discovered  and  removed. 
The  diet  should  be  nutritious,  and  in  those  cases  in  which  we  have 
merelj''  to  deal  with  anemia  (the  bloodless  state)  arising  from  insuffi- 
cient diet,  the  use  of  tonics  and  diuretics,  at  the  same  time  keeping 
the  skin  warm,  may  bring  about  a  gradual  absorption  of  the  fluid 
contained  in  the  abdomen.  One  of  the  following  powders  may  be 
mixed  with  the  animal's  feed  three  times  a  day;  or,  if  there  is  any 
uncertainty  as  to  its  being  taken  in  that  way,  it  should  be  mixed  with 
sirup,  so  as  to  form  a  paste,  and  smeared  well  back  on  the  animal's 
tongue  with  a  flat  wooden  spoon:  Carbonate  of  iron,  3  ounces;  pow- 
dered gentian. 3  ounces:  poAvdered  nitrate  of  potassium, 3 ounces ;  mix 
and  divide  into  12  powders.  The  administration  of  purgatives  which 
promote  a  watery  discharge  from  the  mucous  surface  of  the  bowels 
also  tends,  by  diminishing  the  serum  of  the  blood,  to  bring  about 
absorption  and  a  gradual  removal  of  the  fluid  contained  in  the  abdo- 
men. Large  doses  should  not  be  given,  but  moderate  ones  should 
be  administered  morning  and  night,  so  as  to  produce  a  laxative  effect 
on  the  bowels  for  several  days.  To  attain  this  end  the  following  may 
be  used :  Sulphate  of  soda,  8  ounces;  powdered  ginger,  half  an  ounce; 
to  be  mixed  in  2  quarts  of  tepid  water  and  given  at  one  dose. 


DISEASES  OF  THE  DIGESTIVE  ORGANS. 

DKSCKIPTIOX    OF    PLATES. 

Plate  I.  Position  of  the  first  stomach  (rumen  or  paunch)  on  tlie  left  side. 
Tlie  area  is  inclosed  by  heavj'  dotted  lines  I'epresents  the  rumen;  the 
elongated,  shaded  organ  is  the  spleen  resting  upon  it.  The  skin  and 
muscles  have  been  removed  from  the  ribs  to  show  the  position  of  the 
lungs  and  their  relation  to  the  paunch. 
Plate  II.  Stomach  of  ruminants. 

Pig.  1.  Stomach  of  a  full-grown  sheep,  i  natural  size  (after  Thanhoffer, 
from  R.  Meade  Smith's  Physiology  of  Domestic  Animals)  :  a,  rumen, 
or  first  stomach ;  b,  reticulum,  or  second  stomach ;  c,  omasum,  or  third 
stomach ;  d,  abomasum,  or  foui'th  stomach ;  c,  esophagus,  or  gullet, 
opening  into  the  first  and  second  stomachs ;  /,  opening  of  fourth  stomach 
into  small  intestine ;  ff,  opening  of  second  stomach  into  third ;  7(,  open- 
ing of  third  stomach  into  fourth. 

The  lines  indicate  the  course  of  the  food  in  the  stomachs.  The  incom- 
pletely masticated  food  passes  down  the  esophagus,  or  gullet,  into  the 
first  and  second  stomachs,  in  which  a  claiming  motion  is  kept  up, 
carrying  the  food  from  side  to  side  and  from  stomach  to  stomach. 
From  the  first  stomach  regurgitation  takes  place;  that  is,  the  food  is 
returned  through  the  gullet  to  the  mouth  to  be  more  thoroughly  chewed, 
and  this  constitutes  what  is  known  as  "  chewing  the  cud."  From  the 
second  stomach  the  food  passes  into  the  third,  and  from  the  third  into 
the  fourth,  or  true,  stomach,  and  from  there  into  the  intentines. 

Fig.  2.  Stomach  of  ox  (after  Colin,  from  R.  Meade  Smith's  Physiology  of 
Domestic  Animals)  :  a,  rumen;  h,  reticulum;  c,  omasum;  d,  abomasum; 
c,  esophagus ;  /,  opening  of  fourth  stomach  into  small  intestine. 

Fiirstenberg  calculated  that  in  an  ox  of  1.400  pounds  weight  the  capacity  of 

the  stomach  is  as  follows : 

Per  cent. 

Rmnen,  149.25  quarts,  liquid  measure 02.  4 

Reticidum,  23.77  quarts 10 

Omasum,   36.98  quarts 15 

Abomasum,  29.05  quarts 12.  6 

According  to  Colon —  Quarts. 

The  capacity  of  a  beef's  stomach  is 2CG.  81 

Small  intestine 69.  74 

Cecum 9.51 

Colon  and  rectum . 25.  58 

Plate  III.  Instruments  used  in  treating  diseases  of  digestive  organs. 

Fig.  1.  Clinical  thermometer,  ^  natural  size.  This  is  used  to  determine  the 
temperature  of  the  animal  body.  Tlie  thermometer  is  passed  into  the 
rectum  after  having  been  moistened  with  a  little  saliva  from  the  mouth, 
or  after  having  had  a  little  oil  or  lard  rubbed  upon  it  to  facilitate  its 
passage.  There  it  is  allowed  to  remain  t^\•o  or  three  minutes,  then  with- 
48 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  II. 


Stomach  of  Ruminants. 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  III. 


(j.«WMI«|«!Mta»«>»V! 


5jfl:;-i7      P'j''''PI!'|'"f'll|'"H'l'lpl'f"f''l'illl|il'l|IM||i'l|llll|ni||ni)|iiii[iMi|i^  ■    A 


»      m^_im   -m 


Instruments  Used  in  Treating  Diseases  of  Digestive  Organs. 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  IV. 


Microscopic  Anatomy  of  the  Liver. 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  V. 


Ergot  in  Hay. 


Diseases  of  Cattle— U.  S.  Dept   of  Agr. 


Plate  VI. 


Marx,  from  nature 


4  ft  CO    BALTIMORE 


Ergotism. 


DISEASES   OF   THE   DIGESTIVE   ORGANS.  49 

Plate  III. — Instruments  used  in  treating  diseases  of  digestive  organs — Contd. 
drawn,  and  the  temperature  read  as  in  any  ordinary  thermometer.  The 
clinical  thermometer  is  made  self-registering;  that  is,  the  mercury  in 
the  stem  remains  at  the  height  to  which  it  was  forced  by  the  heat  of 
the  body  until  it  is  shaken  'back  into  the  bulb  by  taking  hold  of  the 
upper  portion  of  the  instrument  and  giving  it  a  short,  sharp  swing. 
The  normal  temperature  of  cattle  varies  from  100°  to  103°  F.  In 
young  animals  it  is  somewhat  higher  than  in  old.  The  thermometer 
is  a  very  useful  instrument  and  frequently  is  the  means  by  which 
disease  is  detected  before  the  appearance  of  any  external  sign. 

Fig.  2.  Simple  probang,  used  to  dislodge  foreign  bodies,  like  apples,  pota- 
toes, eggs,  etc.,  which  have  become  fastened  or  stuck  in  the  esophagus 
or  gullet. 

Fig.  3.  Grasping  or  forceps  probang.  This  instrument,  also  intended  to 
reiuove  obstructions  from  the  gullet,  has  a  spring  forceps  at  one  end  in 
the  place  of  the  cup-like  arrangement  at  the  end  of  the  simple  probang. 
The  forceps  are  closed  while  the  probang  is  being  introduced ;  their 
blades  are  regulated  by  a  screw  in  the  handle  of  the  instrument.  This 
probang  is  used  to  grasp  and  withdraw  an  article  which  may  have 
lodged  in  the  gullet  and  can  not  be  forced  into  the  stomach  by  \ise  of 
the  simple  probang. 

Fig.  4.  Wooden  gag,  used  when  the  probang  is  to  be  passed.  The  gag  is  a 
piece  of  wood  which  fits  in  the  animal's  mouth ;  a  cord  passes  over  the 
head  to  hold  it  in  place.  The  central  opening  in  the  wood  is  intended 
for  the  passage  of  the  probang. 

Figs.  5a  and  5b.  Trocar  and  cannula ;  5ff  shows  the  trocar  covered  by  the 
cannula  ;  5b,  the  cannula  from  which  the  trocar  has  been  withdrawn. 
This  instrument  is  used  when  the  rumen  or  first  stoiuach  becomes 
distend(Hl  with  gas.  The  trocar  covered  by  the  cannula  is  forced  into 
the  rumen,  the  trocar  withdrawn,  and  the  cannula  allowed  to  remain 
untl!  the  gas  has  escaped. 

Fig.  0.  Section  at  right  angles  through  the  abdominal  wall,  showing  a 
hernia  or  rupture.  (Taken  from  D'Arborval.  Dictionnaire  de  M?(lecine, 
de  Chirurgie  de  Hygiene)  :  a  a,  The  abdominal  muscles  ciit  across;  v, 
opening  in  the  abdominal  wall  permitting  the  intestines  i  i  to  pass 
through  and  outward  between  the  abdominal  wall  and  the  skin ;  p  p, 
peritoneum,  or  membrane  lining  the  abdominal  cavity,  carried  through 
the  opening  o  by  the  loop  of  intestine  and  forming  the  sac  S,  the  outer 
walls  of  which  are  marked  b  f  b. 
Plate  IV.  Microscopic  anatomy  of  the  liver.  The  liver  is  composed  of  innu- 
merable small  lobules,  from  -j^-^  to  tij  inch  in  diameter.  The  lobules 
are  held  together  by  a  small  amount  of  fibrous  tissue,  in  which  the 
bile  ducts  and  larger  bloml  vessels  are  lodged. 

Fig.  1  illustrates  the  structure  of  a  lobule ;  v  v,  interlobular  veins  or  the 
veins  between  the  lobules.  These  are  branches  of  the  portal  vein, 
which  carries  blootl  from  the  stomach  and  intestines  to  the  liver ;  c  c, 
capillaries,  or  very  fine  blood  vessels,  extending  as  a  very  fine  network 
between  the  groups  of  liver  cells  from  the  interlobular  vein  to  the 
center  of  the  lobule  and  emptying  there  into  the  intralobular  vein  to 
the  center  of  the  lobule ;  v  c,  intralobular  vein,  or  the  vein  within  the 
lobule.  This  vessel  passes  out  of  the  lobule  and  there  becomes  the 
sublobular  vein ;  v  s,  sublobular  vein.  This  joins  other  similar  veins 
and  lielps  to  form  the  hepatic  vein,  through  which  the  blood  leaves 
33071°— 16 4 


50  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

Plate  IV.  Microscopic  anatomy  of  tlie  liver — Continued. 

tlie  liver;  d  d,  tlie  position  of  the  liver  colls  between  the  meshes  of 
the  capillaries ;  A  A,  branches  of  the  hepatic  artery  to  the  interlobular 
connective  tissue  and  the  walls  of  the  large  veins  and  large  bile 
ducts.  These  branches  are  seen  at  r  r  and  form  the  vena  vascularis ; 
V  V,  vena  vascularis;  i  i,  branches  of  the  hepatic  artery  entering  the 
substance  of  the  lobule  and  connecting  with  capillaries  from  the  inter- 
lobular vein.  The  use  of  the  hepatic  artery  is  to  nourish  the  liver, 
while  the  other  vessels  carry  blood  to  be  modified  by  the  liver  cells  in 
certain  important  directions;  g,  branches  of  the  bile  ducts,  carrying 
bile  from  the  various  lobules  into  the  gall  bladder  and  into  the  intes- 
tines ;  X  X,  intralobular  bile  capillaries  between  the  liver  cells.  These 
form  a  network  of  very  minute  tubes  surrounding  each  ultimate  cell, 
which  receives  the  bile  as  it  is  formed  by  the  liver  cells  and  carried 
outward  as  described. 
Fig.  2.  Isolated  liver  cells :  c,  blood  capillary ;  a,  fine  bile  capillary  channel. 

Plate  V.  Ergot  in  hay:  1,  bluegrass;  2,  timothy;  3,  wild  rye;  4,  red  top. 
Ergot  is  a  fungus  which  may  affect  any  member  of  the  grass  family. 
The  spore  of  the  fungus,  by  some  means  brought  in  contact  with  the 
undeveloped  seed  of  the  grass,  grows,  obliterates  the  seed,  and  prac- 
tically takes  its  place.  When  hay  affected  with  ergot  is  fed  to  animals 
it  is  productive  of  a  characteristic  and  serious  affection  or  poisoning 
known  as  ergotism. 

Plate  VI.  Ergotism,  or  the  effects  of  ergot.  The  lower  part  of  the  limb  of  a 
cow,  showing  the  loss  of  skin  and  flesh  in  a  narrow  ring  around  the 
pastern  bone  and  the  exposure  of  the  bone  itself. 


POISONS  AND  POISONING. 

By  V.  T.  Atkinson,  V.  S. 
[Revised  by  C.  Dwigbt  Marsh,  Ph.  D.] 

DEFINITION  OF  A  POISON. 

To  define  clearly  the  meaning  of  the  word  "  poison "  would  be 
somewhat  difficult.  Even  in  law  the  word  has  never  been  defined, 
and  when  a  definition  is  attempted  we  are  apt  to  include  either  too 
much  or  too  little.  The  following  definition  given  by  Husemann  is 
perhaps  the  best :  "  Poisons  are  those  unorganized  substances,  inor- 
ganic or  organic,  existing  in  the  organism  or  introduced  from  the 
outside,  produced  artificially  or  formed  as  natural  products,  which, 
through  their  chemical  nature,  under  definite  conditions,  so  affect 
some  organ  of  a  living  organism  that  the  health  or  well-being  of  the 
organism  is  temporarily  or  chronically  injured."  The  common  con- 
ception of  a  poison  is  any  substance  which,  in  small  quantity,  will 
destroy  life,  except  such  as  act  by  purely  mechanical  means,  as,  for 
example,  powdered  glass. 

Some  substances  that  are  not  usually  looked  upon  as  poisons  may 
destroy  life  if  given  in  large  doses,  such  as  common  salt.  Other  sub- 
stances which  are  perfectly  harmless  when  taken  into  the  body  in 
the  usual  way  are  poisons  if  injected  into  the  circulation,  such  as 
distilled  water,  milk,  or  glycerin.  Living  organisms  are  not  "  chem- 
ical substances,"  and  are  not  considered  in  this  connection. 

SOURCES  OF  POISONING. 

Poisoning  insij  come  from  many  causes,  among  the  chief  of  which 
are  the  following : 

(1)  Errors  in  medication. — By  using  the  wrong  substance  or  too 
large  dose  an  animal  may  be  poisoned. 

(2)  The  ex'posure  of  poisons  used  for  Twrticulturcd,  technical.,  or 
other  legitimate  purposes. — Poisons  used  for  spraying  plants,  disin- 
fecting, poisoning  vermin,  dipping  cattle  or  sheep,  painting,  smelt- 
ing, dyeing,  or  other  purposes  may  be  so  handled  as  to  come  within 
the  reach  of  animals. 

(3)  DaTMLged  food. — Food  that  has  undergone  putrefaction  or  cer- 
tain kinds  of  fermentation  or  heating,  may  have  become  poisonous, 
producing  forage  poisoning,  meat  poisoning,  cheese  poisoning,  etc. 

(4)  Poisonous  pJants  in  the  pasture  or  forage. 

(5)  The  bite  or  sting  of  a  poisonous  insect  or  the  bite  of  an  anim/il. 

(6)  Malicious  poisoning. 

51 


'52  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

THE  ACTION  OF  POISONS. 

The  action  of  poisons  may  be  either  local,  and  exerted  directly  on 
the  tissues  with  which  they  come  in  contact,  or  remote,  acting  through 
the  circulation  or  the  nervous  system ;  or  both  local  and  remote  action 
may  be  exerted  by  the  same  drug.  Poisons  which  act  locally  gener- 
ally either  destroy  by  corrosion  the  tissues  with  which  they  come  in 
contact  or  by  inhalation  set  up  acute  inflammation.  When  any  cor- 
rosive agent  is  taken  into  the  stomach  in  poisonous  quantities,  a  group 
of  symptoms  is  developed  which  is  common  to  all.  The  tissues  with 
which  the  agent  comes  in  contact  are  destroyed,  sloughing  and  acute 
inflammation  of  the  surrounding  structures  take  place ;  intense  pain 
in  the  abdomen  and  death  ensue.  In  a  like  manner,  but  with  less 
rapidity,  the  same  result  is  reached  if  the  agent  used  be  not  of  a  suffi- 
ciently corrosive  nature  to  destroy  the  tissues,  but  sufficiently  irritat- 
ing to  set  up  acute  inflammation  of  the  mucous  membrane  of  the 
digestive  tract.  If  the  poison  exerts  a  remote  influence  alone,  the 
action  is  quite  different,  little  or  no  local  effect  being  produced  upon 
the  digestive  organs. 

To  produce  an  effect  on  some  part  of  the  body  distant  from  the 
channel  of  entrance,  a  poison  must  have  been  absorbed  and  carried 
in  the  blood  to  the  central  nervous  system  or  other  region  involved. 
The  poisonous  effect  of  any  substance  is  modified  by  the  quantity 
used ;  by  its  chemical  combinations ;  by  the  part  of  the  animal  struc- 
ture with  which  it  comes  in  contact ;  by  the  physical  condition  of  the 
subject ;  and  also  by  the  rapidity  with  which  the  poison  is  excreted. 
As  an  illustration,  opium  may  be  given  with  safety  in  much  larger 
doses  to  an  animal  suffering  from  acute  pain  than  to  one  free  from 
pain,  and  to  an  adult  animal  with  greater  safety  than  to  a  young  one. 
The  rapidity  with  which  the  poison  is  absorbed,  owing  to  the  part  of 
the  body  with  which  it  is  brought  in  contact,  is  also  an  important 
factor.  So  marked  is  this  quality  that  some  agents  which  have  the 
power  of  destroying  life  with  almost  absolute  certainty  when  inti'o- 
duced  beneath  the  skin,  may  be  taken  into  the  stomach  without  caus- 
ing inconvenience,  as  curara,  the  arrow  poisons,  or  the  venomous 
secretion  of  snakes.  Other  agents  in  chemical  combination  may 
tend  to  intensify,  lessen,  or  wholly  neutralize  the  poisonous  effect. 
For  example,  arsenic  in  itself  has  well-marked  poisonous  properties, 
but  when  brought  in  contact  with  dialyzed  iron  it  forms  an  insoluble 
compound  and  becomes  innocuous.  Idiosyncrasies  are  not  go  notice- 
able in  cattle  practice  as  in  practice  among  human  beings,  but  the 
uncertainty  with  which  some  drugs  exert  their  influence  would  lead 
us  to  believe  that  well-marked  differences  in  susceptibility  exist. 
Even  in  some  cases  a  tolerance  for  poison  is  engendered,  so  that  in  a 


POISONS   AND   POISONING.  53 

herd  of  animals  equally  exposed  injurious  or  fatal  effects  do  not 
appear  with  uniformity.  For  example,  among  cattle  that  are  com- 
pelled to  drink  water  holding  in  solution  a  salt  of  lead  the  effects  of 
the  poisoning  will  be  found  varying  all  the  way  from  fatality  to 
imperceptibility. 

GENERAL  SYMPTOMS  OF  POISONING. 

It  is  not  always  easy  to  differentiate  between  poisoning  and  some 
disease.  Indeed,  examination  during  the  life  of  the  animal  is  some- 
times wholly  inadequate  to  the  formation  of  an  opinion  as  to  whether 
the  case  is  one  of  poisoning  or,  if  it  is,  as  to  what  the  poison  may  be. 
A  chemical  and  physical  examination  after  the  death  of  the  animal 
may  be  necessary  to  clear  up  the  doubt.  On  the  other  hand,  the 
symptoms  may  be  of  such  a  nature  as  to  point  unmistakably  to  poi- 
soning with  a  certain  agent.  In  general,  the  following  classes  of 
symptoms  may  be  regarded  as  indicative  of  poisoning :  Sudden  onset 
of  the  disease  without  visible  cause,  a  number  of  animals  being  simi- 
larly affected  at  once,  with  severe  gastrointestinal  disorder  or  de- 
rangement of  the  nervous  system,  or  both ;  sudden  alteration  of  heart 
action  in  relation  to  frequency,  force,  or  rhythm;  local  irritation, 
dyspnea,  or  change  in  the  urine  or  urination. 

After  death,  lesions  of  the  greatest  variety  may  be  found,  and  it  is 
necessary  for  one  to  be  skilled  in  anatomy  and  pathology  in  order 
to  determine  their  significance.  Oftentimes  the  stomach  and  intes- 
tines are  red,  have  thick  walls,  and  contain  blood.  This  signifies  a 
severe  irritant,  such  as  arsenic  or  corrosive  sublimate.  Other  altera- 
tions sometimes  found  are  inflammation  of  the  kidneys  or  bladder, 
points  of  hemorrhage  in  various  organs,  changes  in  the  blood,  con- 
gestion of  the  lungs,  and  certain  microscopic  changes. 

GENERAL  TREATMENT. 

The  treatment  of  animals  suffering  from  poison  must  vary  accord- 
ing to  the  nature  of  the  toxic  agent.  There  are  a  few  general  plans 
of  action,  however,  Avhich  should  be  folloAved  so  far  as  possible.  In 
man  and  in  some  of  the  smaller  animals  it  is  possible  to  eliminate 
unabsorbed  poison  by  the  use  of  the  stomach  pump  or  by  causing 
vomiting.  These  proceedings  are  impracticable  in  cattle.  It  is 
well,  therefore,  in  many  cases  to  endeavor  to  expel  the  unabsorbed 
poison  by  emptying  the  digestive  tract,  so  far  as  may  be,  with  a 
nonirritating  purge.  Castor  oil  in  doses  of  1  pint  to  2  quarts  is 
adapted  to  this  purpose.  If  the  poison  is  known  to  be  nonirritant — 
as  a  narcotic  plant — from  10  to  20  drops  of  croton  oil  may  be  given 
with  a  quart  of  castor  oil.  When  poisons  are  somewhat  prolonged  in 
their  effect,  Epsom  salt  in  doses  of  1  pound  can  be  given  advantage- 


54  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

ously.  To  protect  the  mucous  membrane  from  the  action  of  strong 
irritants,  one  may  give  flaxseed  tea,  barley  water,  the  whites  of  eggs, 
milk,  butter,  olive  oil,  or  fresh  lard.  Chemical  antidotes  may  some- 
times be  used  for  special  poisons,  as  advised  below.  In  general,  if 
an  acid  has  been  taken  it  may  be  neutralized  with  an  alkali,  such  as 
chalk,  magnesia,  bicarbonate  of  soda  (baking  soda),  ammonia 
(diluted),  or  soap.  If  the  poison  is  an  alkali,  such  as  caustic  soda 
or  potash  (lye),  or  ammonia,  an  acid,  such  as  diluted  (1  per  cent) 
sulphuric  acid  or  vinegar,  may  be  administered.  Special  treatments 
and  antidotes  are  considered  below. 

A  poisonous  agent  may  be  so  gradually  introduced  into  the  system 
as  to  slowly  develop  the  power  of  resistance  against  its  own  action. 
In  other  cases  where  the  poison  is  introduced  slowly  the  poisonous 
action  becomes  accumulative,  and,  although  there  is  no  increase  in  the 
quantity  taken,  violent  symptoms  are  suddenly  developed,  as  if  the 
whole  amount,  the  consumption  of  which  may  have  extended  over 
a  considerable  period,  had  been  given  in  one  dose.  Other  agents, 
poisonous  in  their  nature,  tend  to  deteriorate  some  of  the  important 
organs,  and,  interfering  with  their  natural  functions,  are  productive 
of  conditions  of  ill  health  which,  although  not  necessarily  fatal,  are 
important.  Such  might  properly  be  called  chronic  poisons.  Poisons 
of  themselves  dangerous  when  administered  in  large  doses  are 
used  medicinally  for  curative  purposes,  and  a  very  large  percentage 
of  the  pharmaceutical  preparations  used  in  the  practice  of  medicine 
if  given  in  excessive  quantities  may  produce  serious  results.  In  the 
administration  of  medicines,  therefore,  care  should  be  exercised  not 
only  that  the  animal  is  not  poisoned  by  the  administration  of  an 
excessive  dose  but  that  injury  is  not  done  by  continued  treatment 
with  medicines  the  administration  of  which  is  not  called  for. 

MINERAL  POISONS. 

ARSENIC  POISONING. 

Of  the  common  irritant  and  corrosive  poisons,  arsenic,  especially 
one  of  its  compounds  (Paris  green),  is  likely  to  be  the  most  danger- 
ous to  our  class  of  patients.  The  common  practice  of  using  Paris 
green  and  other  compounds  of  arsenic  as  insecticides  for  the  destruc- 
tion of  potato  beetle  and  other  insect  enemies  of  the  farmer  and  fruit 
grower  has  had  the  effect  of  introducing  it  into  almost  all  farming 
establishments.  White  arsenic  is  also  a  principal  ingredient  in  many 
of  the  popular  sheep-dipping  preparations,  and  poisoning  from  this 
source  occasionally  takes  place  when,  after  dipping,  the  flock  are 
allowed  to  run  in  a  yard  in  which  there  is  loose  fodder.    The  drip- 


POISONS  AND  POISONING.  55 

pings  from  the  wool  of  the  sheep  falling  on  the  fodder  render  it 
poisonous  and  dangerous  to  animal  life  if  eaten.  Familiarity  with 
its  use  has  in  many  instances  tended  to  breed  contempt  for  its 
potency  as  a  poison.  Rat  poisons  often  contain  arsenic.  The  exces- 
sive use  of  arsenic  as  a  tonic,  or  of  "  condition  powders  "  containing 
arsenic,  has  been  the  means  of  poisoning  many  animals.  This  is  the 
common  poison  used  by  malicious  persons  with  criminal  intent.  The 
poison  may  also  be  absorbed  through  wounds  or  through  the  skin  if 
used  as  a  dip  or  bath. 

If  a  large  dose  is  given,  at  once  acute  poisoning  is  produced:  if 
repeated  small  doses  are  given,  chronic  poisoning  may  result.  The 
poisonous  dose  for  an  ox  is  from  3  drams  to  1  ounce. 

SymjJtmns. — The  symptoms  of  acute  poisoning  first  appear  as  those 
of  colic;  the  animal  is  restless,  stamping  with  the  feet,  lying  down 
and  getting  up.  There  is  tenderness  on  pressure  over  the  abdomen. 
The  acute  symptoms  increase;  in  a  few  hours  violent  diarrhea  is 
developed ;  in  many  cases  blood  and  shreds  of  detached  mucous  mem- 
brane are  mixed  with  the  evacuations.  There  is  irregular  and  feeble 
pulse  and  respiration,  and  death  is  likely  to  supervene  between  the 
eighteenth  hour  and  the  third  day.  If  the  latter  period  is  passed, 
there  is  a  reasonable  hope  of  recovery. 

In  chronic  poisoning  the  symptoms  are  similar  to  those  of  chronic 
gastrointestinal  catarrh,  with  indigestion,  diarrhea,  and  general 
weakness  and  loss  of  condition. 

Treatment. — The  antidote  for  arsenic  is  a  solution  of  hydrated 
oxid  of  iron  in  water.  It  should  be  prepared  fresh  by  mixing  a  solu- 
tion of  sulphate  of  iron,  made  by  dissolving  4  ounces  of  sulphate  of 
iron  in  one-half  pint  water,  with  a  suspension  of  1  ounce  of  magnesia 
in  one-half  pint  water.  This  quantity  is  sufficient  for  one  dose  for  a 
cow  and  may  be  repeated  in  an  hour,  if  much  arsenic  was  taken.  A 
solution  of  calcined  magnesia  or  powdered  iron  or  iron  filings  or  iron 
scale  from  a  blacksmith's  forge  may  be  given  in  the  absence  of  other 
remedies.  Powdered  sulphur  is  of  some  value  as  an  antidote.  One 
must  also  administer  protectives,  such  as  linseed  tea,  barley  water, 
whites  of  eggs,  etc. 

LEAD  POISONING. 

Lead  poisoning  of  cattle  sometimes  comes  from  their  having  licked 
freshly  painted  surfaces  and  thus  swallowed  compounds  containing 
white  lead.  In  several  instances  cattle  have  been  poisoned  by  silage 
from  a  silo  painted  inside  with  lead  paint  shortly  before  filling. 
Sometimes  cattle  eat  dried  paint  scrapings  with  apparent  relish  and 
are  poisoned.  Cattle  grazing  on  rifle  ranges  have  been  poisoned  by 
lead  from  the  bullets.     Sugar  of  lead  has  been  administered  by  mis- 


66  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

take  for  Glauber's  salt.  Lead  poisoning  may  be  acute  or  chronic. 
The  fatal  dose  of  sugar  of  lead  is  from  1  to  4  ounces.  AVater  drawn 
from  lead  pipes  or  held  in  a  lead-lined  tank  may  cause  poisoning. 

Symptoms. — The  symptoms  are  generally  dullness,  lying  down  with 
the  head  turned  toward  the  flank,  colic,  rumbling  in  the  abdomen,  loss 
of  control  of  the  limbs  when  walking,  twitching,  champing  of  the 
jaws,  moving  in  a  circle,  convulsions,  delirium,  violent  belloAving,  fol- 
lowed by  stupor  and  death.  The  symptoms  generally  extend  over 
considerable  time  but  may  end  in  death  after  24  hours. 

Treatment. — The  treatment  should  first  be  directed  toward  remov- 
ing the  cause.  A  large  dose  of  purgative  medicine  should  be  given, 
and  the  brain  symptoms  be  relieved  by  giving  bromid  of  potas- 
sium in  half-ounce  doses  every  4  or  5  hours  and  by  the  application  of 
cold  water  to  the  head.  Dilute  sulphuric  acid  in  half-ounce  doses 
should  be  given  with  the  purgative  medicine.  In  this  case  sulphate 
of  magnesia  (Epsom  salt)  is  the  best  purgative,  and  it  may  be  given 
in  doses  of  from  1  to  2  pounds  dissolved  in  warm  water.  After  the 
acute  symptoms  have  abated,  iodid  of  potassium  may  be  given,  in 
doses  of  2  drams  each,  three  times  a  day  for  a  week. 

Chronic  lead  poisoning  occasionally  occurs  in  districts  where  lead 
mining  is  the  principal  industry.  The  waste  products  of  the  mine 
thrown  into  streams  contaminate  the  water  supply,  so  that  the  min- 
eral is  taken  into  the  system  gradually,  and  a  very  small  per  cent  of 
any  of  the  salts  taken  into  the  system  in  this  way  is  pernicious. 
Water  which  contains  any  salt  of  lead  to  the  extent  of  more  than 
one-tenth  of  a  grain  to  the  gallon  is  unfit  to  drink.  Such  water  when 
used  continually  is  likely  to  produce  colic  from  the  resulting  intesti- 
nal irritation,  and  in  aggravated  cases  paralysis  more  or  less  severe 
is  likely  to  be  developed.  A  blue  line  on  the  margin  of  the  gums, 
the  last  symptom,  is  regarded  as  diagnostic  and  its  presence  as  con- 
clusive evidence  of  the  nature  of  the  disorder.  The  free  use  of  pur- 
gatives is  indicated  with  iodid  of  potassium. 

Treatment. — No  treatment  is  likely  to  be  of  avail  until  the  cause  is 
removed. 

COPPER  POISONING. 

The  soluble  salts  of  copper,  though  used  as  a  tonic  in  the  medicinal 
treatment  of  cattle,  are  poisonous  when  taken  in  large  quantities. 
Like  lead  and  arsenic,  they  have  an  irritant  effect  upon  the  mucous 
membrane  with  which  they  come  in  contact  in  a  concentrated  form. 
Cattle  are  not  very  likely  to  be  poisoned  from  this  cause  unless 
through  carelessness.  Sulphate  of  copper,  commonly  called  blue 
vitriol,  is  occasionally  used  for  disinfecting  and  cleansing  stables, 
where  it  might  inadvertently  be  mixed  with  the  feed.  It  is  also  used 
largely  for  making  the  Bordeaux  mixture  used  in  spraying  fruit 


POISONS  AND  POISONING.  57 

trees.    The  general  symptoms  produced  are. those  of  intestinal  irrita- 
tion, short  breathing,  stamping,  and  tender  abdomen. 

Treatment. — Give  powdered  iron,  or  iron  reduced  by  hydrogen,  or 
calcined  magnesia.  Sulphur  may  be  used.  This  should  be  followed 
by  a  liberal  supply  of  demulcents,  linseed  infusion,  boiled  starch, 
whites  of  eggs,  etc. 

ZINC  POISONING. 

Several  of  the  soluble  salts  of  zinc  are  irritant  poisons.  The 
chlorid  and  sulphate  are  those  in  most  common  use.  In  animals 
A.Iiich  have  power  to  vomit  they  are  emetic  in  their  action.  In 
others,  when  retained  in  the  stomach,  they  set  up  more  or  less  irri- 
tation of  the  mucous  membrane  and  abdominal  pain,  producing 
symptoms  already  described  in  the  action  of  other  poisons  which 
produce  the  same  result. 

Treatment. — The  treatment  should  be  the  same  as  for  copper  poi- 
soning, 

PHOSPHORUS   POISONING. 

Only  one  of  the  forms  of  phosphorus  in  common  use-r-the  ordinary 
yellow — is  poisonous.  Phosphorus  in  this  form  is  used  for  the 
destruction  of  rats  and  mice  and  other  vermin,  and  has  been  largely 
used  in  the  manufacture  of  matches. 

SymptoTns. — The  symptoms  are  loss  of  appetite,  colic,  diarrhea, 
irritation  of  the  mouth  and  throat,  and  paralysis  of  the  throat. 
Thei'e  is  also  weakness,  difficult  breathing,  and  rapid  pulse.  The 
course  of  the  poisoning  is  usually  rapid,  terminating  in  either  recov- 
ery or  death  Avithin  three  days.  The  toxic  dose  for  cattle  is  from 
5  to  30  grains.  If  taken  in  large  quantities  the  excreta  are  occa- 
sionally noticed  to  be  luminous  when  examined  in  the  dark. 

Treatment. — Turpentine  is  given  in  an  emulsion  with  flaxseed  tea  in 
a  single  dose  of  from  2  to  8  ounces.  Permanganate  of  potassium  may 
be  given  in  a  one-fourth  of  1  per  cent  solution.  Stimulants,  such 
as  alcohol  and  ether,  should  be  administered.  Oils  and  milk  must 
not  be  given. 

MERCURY  POISONING. 

Mercury  poisoning  is  not  rare  in  cattle  from  the  fact  that  these 
animals  have  a  specifvl  susceptibility  to  the  action  of  this  substance. 
Antiseptic  washes  or  injections  containing  the  bichlorid  of  mercury 
(corrosive  sublimate)  must  be  used  on  cattle  with  gi*eat  care.  Mer- 
curial disinfecting  solutions  or  salves  must  be  used  cautiously. 
Calomel  can  not  be  given  freely  to  cattle. 

SymptoTns. — The  symptoms  are  salivation,  sore  mouth,  indiges- 
tion, diarrhea,  skin  eruption,  paralysis  of  local  groups  of  muscles, 
and  nephritis. 


58  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

Treatment. — The  treatment  consists  in  administering  sulphur  in 
large  doses  (2  to  4  ounces)  or  iron  powder.  Both  make  insoluble 
compounds  with  mercury.  Follow  with  the  whites  of  eggs  mixed 
with  water  and  with  linseed  tea.  If  the  case  does  not  terminate 
promptly,  give  iodid  of  potash  in  1-dram  doses  twice  daily. 

POISONING  BY  ACIDS. 

Mineral  acids. — The  mineral  acids — nitric,  sulphuric,  hydrochlo- 
ric, etc. — when  used  in  a  concentrated  form  destroy  the  animal 
tissues  with  which  they  come  in  contact,  and  in  this  respect  differ 
from  most  of  the  poisons  previously  described.  Wlien  taken  into 
the  stomach  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth,  pharynx,  esophagus, 
and  stomach  is  apt  to  be  more  or  less  completely  destroyed.  If  taken 
in  large  quantities  death  is  likely  to  result  so  speedily  that  nothing 
can  be  done  to  relieve  the  patient,  and  even  if  time  is  allowed  and  the 
action  of  the  acid  can  be  arrested  it  can  not  be  done  until  consider- 
able and,  perhaps,  irreparable  damage  has  been  done.  The  mucous 
membrane  with  which  the  acid  has  come  in  contact  in  the  esophagus 
may  be  destroyed  by  its  corrosive  action  and  carried  away,  leaving 
the  muscular  tissues  exposed.  The  raw  surface  heals  irregularly, 
the  cicatrice  contracting  causes  stricture,  and  an  animal  so  injured 
is  likely  to  die  of  starvation.  In  the  stomach  even  greater  damage 
is  likely  to  be  done.  The  peristaltic  action  of  the  esophagus  carries 
the  irritant  along  quickly,  but  here  it  remains  quiet  in  contact  with 
one  surface,  destroying  it.  It  is  likely  to  perforate  the  organ  and, 
coming  in  contact  with  the  abdominal  lining  or  other  organs  of  di- 
gestion, soon  sets  up  a  condition  that  is  beyond  repair.  In  a  less 
concentrated  form,  when  this  is  not  sufficiently  strong  to  be  corrosive, 
it  exerts  an  irritant  effect.  In  this  form  it  may  not  do  much  harm 
unless  taken  in  considerable  quantity.  When  thus  the  mucous 
membrane  of  the  stomach  and  intestines  becomes  inflamed-  pain  and 
diarrhea  are  likely  to  result. 

Treatment. — Any  of  the  alkalies  may  be  used  as  an  antidote. 
Most  convenient  of  these  are  chalk,  baking  soda,  marble  dust,  mag- 
nesia, lime,  soap,  or  plaster  from  a  wall.  Mucilaginous  drinks 
should  be  given  in  large  quantities. 

Vegetable  acids. — Oxalic  acid  in  particular  is  corrosive  in  its 
action  when  taken  in  concentrated  solution,  losing  its  corrosive 
effect  and  becoming  irritant  when  more  dilute.  It  also  exerts  a 
specific  effect  on  the  heart,  frequently  causing  death  from  syncope. 
Taken  in  the  form  either  of  the  crystals  or  solution  it  is  likely  to 
cause  death  in  a  very  short  time.  Failure  of  heart  action  and  the 
attendant  small  pulse,  weakness,  staggering,  and  convulsions  are  the 
more  noticeable  symptoms.  Acetic  acid  is  irritant  to  the  gastro- 
intestinal tract,  and  may  cause  sudden  paralysis  of  the  heart. 


POISONS  AND  POISONING.  59 

Treatment. — The  action  of  the  acid,  should  be  counteracted  by  the 
use  of  alkalies,  as  advised  above,  by  limewater  or  lime  or  plaster 
given  promptly,  by  protectives  to  the  digestive  tract,  and  by  stimu- 
lants. 

POISONING  BY  ALKALIES. 

The  carbonates  of  potasli  and  soda  and  the  alkalies  themselves  in 
concentrated  form  cause  symptoms  of  intestinal  irritation  similar  to 
those  produced  by  mineral  acids.  Ammonia,  caustic  soda,  and  caus- 
tic potash  (lye)  are  those  to  which  animals  are  most  exposed.  The 
degree  of  their  caustic  irritant  effects  depends  on  their  degree  of 
concentration.  When  they  reach  the  stomach  the  symptoms  are 
nearlj'^  as  well  marked  as  in  the  case  of  the  acids.  The  irritation  is 
even  more  noticeable,  and  purgation  is  likely  to  be  a  more  prominent 
symptom.  If  death  is  not  caused  soon,  the  irritation  of  the  gastro- 
intestinal tract  and  malnutrition  will  last  for  a  long  time. 

Treatment. — Treatment  consists  in  neutralizing  the  alkali  by  an 
acid,  such  as  dilute  sulphuric  acid.  (1  per  cent)  or  strong  vinegar. 
The  administration  of  such  an  antidote  and  its  action  must  be  care- 
fully watched  during  administration.  In  the  chemical  change  which 
takes  place  when  the  acid  and  alkali  are  combined,  carbonic-acid  gas 
is  liberated,  which  may  be  to  an  extent  sufficient  to  cause  considerable 
distention  of  the  abdomen,  and  even  to  produce  asphyxia  from  pres- 
sure forward  on  the  diaphragm.  Should  this  danger  present  itself, 
it  may  be  averted  by  opening  the  flank,  permitting  the  gas  to  escape. 
(See  "Acute  tympanites,  or  Bloating,"  p.  22.)  Flaxseed  or  slippery- 
elm  decoction  must  be  given  to  sooth  the  inflamed  mucous  surface. 
Opium  may  be  used  to  allay  pain. 

COAL-OIL  POISONING. 

Coal  oil  is  sometimes  administered  empirically  as  a  treatment  for 
intestinal  parasites.  If  given  in  large  doses  it  produces  poisonous 
effects,  which  are  likely  to  be  manifested  some  time  after  the  adminis- 
tration. It  acts  as  an  irritant  to  the  digestive  tract,  causing  drib- 
bling of  ropy  saliva  from  the  mouth,  diarrhea,  tenesmus,  and  loss 
of  appetite,  with  increased,  temperature  and  cold  extremities.  Visible 
mucous  membranes  are  injected,  pupils  of  the  eyes  are  contracted, 
and  there  is  a  watery  discharge  from  the  eyes  and  nostrils.  Re- 
motely it  exerts  a  depressing  influence  on  the  functions  of  the  brain 
and  slight  coma,  and  occasionally  convulsions,  from  which  the  animal 
is  easily  aroused.  The  kidneys  also  suffer.  The  urine  is  dark 
colored  and  has  the  characteristic  odor  of  coal  oil.  Death  may  re- 
sult from  gastroenteritis  or  convulsions. 

Treatment. — The  patient's  strength  should  be  fostered  by  the  fre- 
quent administration  of  mild  stimulants,  of  which  aromatic  spirits 


60  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

of  ammonia  is  perhaps  the  best.     The  animal  should  be  encouraged 
to  eat  soft  feed  and  given  mucilaginous  drinks. 

Crude  coal  oil  is  sometimes  applied  to  the  skin  to  kill  parasites. 
If  too  much  is  used,  especially  in  hot  weather,  great  weakness  and 
depression  may  be  caused  and  in  some  cases  death  may  result. 

CARBOLIC-ACID  POISONING. 

Although  one  of  the  most  valuable  antiseptic  remedies,  carbolic 
acid  in  a  concentrated  form,  when  taken  internally  or  used  over  a 
large  surface  externally,  is  likely  to  produce  poisonous  effects.  It 
causes  whitening,  shrinldng,  and  numbness  of  the  structures  with 
which  it  comes  in  contact,  and,  besides  its  irritant  effect,  exerts  a 
powerful  influence  on  the  nervous  system.  Being  readily  absorbed, 
it  i^roduces  its  effect  whether  swallowed,  injected  into  the  rectum, 
inhaled,  or  applied  to  wounds,  or  even  to  a  large  tract  of  unbroken 
skin.  Used  extensively  as  a  dressing,  it  may  produce  nausea,  dizzi- 
ness, and  smoky  or  blackish  colored  urine.  The  last  symptom  is 
nearly  always  noticeable  where  the  poisonous  effect  is  produced.  In 
more  concentrated  form,  or  used  in  larger  quantities,  convulsions, 
followed  by  fatal  coma,  are  likely  to  take  place.  Even  in  smaller 
quantities,  dullness,  trembling,  and  disinclination  for  food  often 
continue  for  several  days.  In  a  tolerably  concentrated  solution  it 
coagulates  albumen  and  acts  as  an  astringent. 

Treatment. — As  an  antidote  internally,  a  solution  of  sulphate  of 
soda  or  sulphate  of  magnesia  (Glauber's  or  Epsom  salt)  may  be 
given.  The  white  of  egg  is  also  useful.  Stimulants  may  be  given  if 
needed.  When  the  poisoning  occurs  through  too  extensive  applica- 
tions to  wounds  or  the  skin,  as  in  treatment  of  mange,  cold  water 
should  be  freely  applied  so  as  to  wash  off  any  of  the  acid  that  may 
still  remain  unabsorbed.  As  a  surgical  dressing  a  3  per  cent  solu- 
tion is  strong  enough  for  ordinary  purposes.  Water  will  not  hold 
more  than  5  per  cent  in  permanent  solution.  No  preparation 
.stronger  than  the  saturated  solution  should  be  used  medicinally 
under  any  circumstances. 

SALTPETER  POISONING. 

Both  nitrate  of  soda  and  nitrate  of  potassium  are  poisonous  to  cattle. 
These  substances  are  used  for  manure  and  for  preserving  meats. 
They  may  be  administered  in  a  drench  by  error  in  place  of  Glauber's 
salt,  or  they  may  be  exposed  within  reach  of  cattle  and  thus  be  eaten. 
The  toxic  dose  depends  upon  the  condition  of  fullness  of  the  stomach. 
If  in  solution  and  given  on  an  empty  stomach,  as  little  as  3  ounces  of 
saltpeter  (nitrate  of  potassium)  may  be  fatal  to  a  cow.  More  of  the 
Chile  saltpeter  (nitrate  of  soda)  is  required  to  cause  serious  trouble. 


POISONS  AND  POISONING.  61 

Symptoms. — Severe    gastroenteritis,    colic,    tympanites,    diarrhea, 
excessive  urination,  wealaiess,  trembling,  convulsions,  collapse. 
Treatment. — Same  as  for  poisoning  by  common  salt. 

POISONING  BY  COMMON  SALT. 

A  few  pounds  (3  to  5)  of  common  salt  will  produce  well-marked 
signs  of  poisoning  in  cattle.  So  much  salt  as  this  will  not  be  taken 
by  cattle  except  under  unusual  conditions.  If  the  feed  is  poor  in 
salt,  and  if  no  salt  has  been  given  for  a  long  time,  an  intense  "  salt 
hunger "  may  occur  that  may  lead  an  animal  to  eat  a  poisonous 
quantity  if  it  is  not  restricted;  or  an  overdose  of  salt  may  be  given 
by  error  as  a  drench. 

Herring  and  mackerel  brine  and  pork  pickle  are  also  poisonous, 
and  are  especially  dangerous  for  hogs.  In  these  substances  there 
are,  in  addition  to  salt,  certain  products  extracted  from  the  fish  or 
meat  which  undergo  change  and  add  to  the  toxicity  of  the  solution. 
Sometimes  saltpeter  is  present  in  such  brines. 

Symptoms. — The  symptoms  are  gi-eat  thirst,  abdominal  pain,  diar- 
rhea, poor  appetite,  redness  and  dryness  of  the  mouth,  increased 
urination,  paralysis  of  the  hind  legs,  weak  pulse,  general  paralysis, 
coma,  and  death  in  from  six  to  eight  hours. 

TreatTTient. — Allow  as  much  warm  water  as  the  animal  will  drink ; 
give  j)rotectives,  such  as  linseed  tea,  etc.  Linseed  or  olive  oil  may 
be  given.  To  keep  up  the  heart  action  give  ether,  alcohol,  camphor, 
digitalis,  or  coffee.    To  allay  pain,  give  opium. 

VEGETABLE  POISONS. 

Vegetable  poisons  may  be  divided  into  two  classes — those  that 
are  likely  to  be  administered  to  the  animal  as  medicine,  and  such 
as  may  be  taken  in  the  feed,  either  in  the  shape  of  poisonous  plants 
or  as  plants  or  feeds  of  vegetable  origin  that  have  been  damaged 
by  fungi  or  by  bacteria  which  have  produced  fermentation  or  putre- 
faction. 

VEGETABLE  POISONS  USED  AS  MEDICINE. 

OPIUM    (MORPHIN.   LAUDANUM)    POISONING. 

Opium  and  its  alkaloid,  morphia,  are  so  commonly  used  in  the 
practice  of  medicine  that  the  poisonous  result  of  an  overdose  is  not 
uncommon.  The  common  preparations  are  gum  opium,  the  inspis- 
sated juice  of  the  poppy;  powdered  opium,  made  from  the  gimi; 
tincture  of  opium,  commonly  called  laudanum;  and  the  alkaloid  or 
active  principle,  morphia.  Laudanum  has  about  one-eighth  the 
strength  of  the  gum  or  powder.  Morphia  is  present  in  good  opium 
to  the  extent  of  about  10  per  cent.  In  medicine  it  is  a  most  useful 
agent   in   allaying   pain.     It   first    produces    a    stimulating    action, 


62  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

which  is  followed  by  drowsiness,  a  disposition  to  sleep  or  complete 
anesthesia,  depending  on  the  quantitj'^  of  the  drug  used.  In  poi- 
sonous doses  a  state  of  exhilaration  is  well  marked  at  first.  This 
is  particularly  noticeable  in  cattle  and  in  horses.  The  animal  be- 
comes much  excited,  and  this  stage  does  not  pass  into  insensibility 
unless  an  enormous  dose  has  been  given.  If  the  dose  is  large  enough, 
a  second  stage  sometimes  supervenes,  in  which  the  sjmiptoms  are 
those  of  congestion  of  the  brain.  The  visible  membranes  have  a 
bluish  tint  (cyanotic)  from  interference  with  the  air  supply.  The 
breathing  is  slow,  labored,  and  later  stertorous;  the  pupils  of  the 
eyes  are  very  much  contracted ;  the  skin  dry  and  warm.  Gas  accu- 
mulates in  the  stomach,  so  that  tympanites  is  a  prominent  symptom. 
The  patient  may  be  aroused  by  great  noise  or  the  infliction  of  sharp 
pain,  when  the  breathing  becomes  more  natural.  A  lapse  into  the 
comatose  condition  takes  place  when  the  excitement  ceases.  Later, 
there  is  perfect  coma  and  the  patient  can  no  longer  be  aroused  from 
the  insensible  condition.  The  contraction  of  the  pupil  becomes  more 
marked,  the  breathing  intermittent  and  slower,  there  is  perspiration, 
the  pulse  more  feeble  and  rapid,  till  death  takes  place.  Poisoning  of 
cattle  with  opium  or  its  products  rarely  goes  beyond  the  stage  of 
excitement,  because  the  quantity  of  the  drug  required  for  the  later 
effects  is  so  great.  Seventy-five  grains  of  morphia  administered  sub- 
cutaneously  has  sufficed  merely  to  excite  for  12  hours. 

Treatment. — Give  strong  coffee,  1  to  4  quarts,  aromatic  spirits  of 
ammonia  or  carbonate  of  ammonia.  Atropia  is  the  physiological 
antidote. 

STRYCHNIN  POISONING. 

Strychnin  is  a  very  concentrated  poison  and  produces  its  effect 
very  quickly,  usually  only  a  few  minutes  being  necessary  if  given  in 
sufficient  dose  and  in  such  a  way  that  it  will  be  at  once  absorbed. 
When  employed  as  a  medicine,  as  a  rule,  minimum  doses  should  be 
used,  as  cattle  are  quite  susceptible  to  its  effects  and  may  be  killed 
by  the  maximum  doses  given  in  the  common  manuals  of  veterinary 
medicine.  The  first  noticeable  symptom  is  evidence  of  unrest  or 
mental  excitement;  at  the  same  time  the  muscles  over  the  shoulder 
and  croup  may  be  seen  to  quiver  or  twitch,  and  later  there  occurs  a 
more  or  less  well-marked  convulsion;  the  head  is  jerked  back,  the 
back  arched  and  leg  extended,  the  eyes  drawn.  The  spasm  continues 
for  only  a  few  minutes,  when  it  relaxes  and  another  occurs  in  a  short 
time.  The  return  is  hastened  by  excitement  and  in  a  short  time 
again  disappears,  continuing  to  disappear  and  reappear  until  death 
results.  As  the  poisonous  effect  advances  the  intervals  between  the 
spasms  become  shorter  and  less  marked  and  the  spasms  more  severe 
until  the  animal  dies  in  violent  struggles. 


POISONS  AND   POISONING.  63 

Treatment. — The  best  method  is  to  put  the  patient  under  the  influ- 
ence of  chloral,  chloroform,  or  ether,  and  keep  it  there  continuously 
until  the  effect  of  the  poison  has  passed  off.  Alcohol  may  be  given 
in  large  doses. 

ACONITE  POISONING. 

In  recent  years  tincture  of  aconite  has  become  a  popular  stable 
remedy.  If  an  animal  is  ailing,  aconite  is  given  whether  indicated 
or  not.  Fortunately  the  dose  used  is  generally  small,  and  for  this 
reason  the  damage  done  is  much  less  than  it  would  otherwise  be. 
Aconite  is  one  of  the  most  deadly  poisons  laiown.  It  produces 
paralysis  of  motion  and  sensation,  depresses  the  heart's  action,  and 
causes  death  by  paralysis  of  respiration.  In  large  doses  it  causes 
profuse  salivation,  champing  of  the  jaws,  and  attempts  at  swallow- 
ing. If  not  sufficient  to  cause  death,  there  is  impaired  appetite  with 
more  or  less  nausea  for  some  time  after.  In  poisonous  doses  it  causes 
the  animal  to  tremble  violently,  to  lose  power  to  support  itself,  and 
brings  on  slight  convulsions,  with  perspiration.  The  pulse  is  de- 
pressed, irregular,  and  afterwards  intermittent. 

Treatment. — The  chemical  antidote  is  tannic  acid,  which  forms  an 
insoluble  compound  with  the  aconitin.  The  depressing  effect  on  the 
heart  should  be  counterated  by  the  use  of  ammonia,  digitalis,  alcohol, 
camphor,  or  other  diffusible  stimulants,  which  have  a  physiological 
effect  opposite  to  aconite. 

POISONOUS  PLANTS. 

An  important  group  of  poisons  may  be  classed  under  this  head. 
In  some  cases  it  is  poison  naturally  belonging  to  the  plant;  in  other 
cases  the  poisonous  principle  is  developed  in  what  would  otherwise 
be  harmless  plants  as  a  plant  disease,  or  as  a  fermentation  or  putre- 
faction due  to  bacterial  growth  and  observed  in  forage,  grain,  or 
meat  that  has  become  heated,  damaged,  or  "  spoilt." 

The  subject  of  poisonous  plants  is  an  important  one  and  is  of 
especial  interest  to  those  using  the  western  stock  ranges,  for  it  is 
probable  that  there  is  no  other  single  cause  producing  so  many  fatali- 
ties. In  this  article  only  a  few  of  the  more  important  plants  are 
treated  in  a  brief  way,  for  an  extended  treatise  would  be  necessary 
if  the  subject  were  to  be  handled  adequately.  Further  information 
should  be  sought  in  the  more  elaborate  publications.  Many  of  the 
American  poisonous  plants  have  been  treated  in  bulletins  issued 
from  the  United  States  Department  of  Agriculture. 

Treatment  for  plant  poisoning. — Remedies  given  by  the  mouth  in 
most  cases  fail  to  give  relief  to  cattle  affected  by  poisonous  plants. 
The  material  of  the  poisonous  plant  in  the  first  stomach  is  not  very 
largely  affected  by  a  remedy  given  as  a  drench.     If  any  beneficial 


64  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

result  is  effected,  it  must  be  on  the  material  which  has  already  passed 
into  the  fourth  stomach,  so  that  to  get  any  re-al  antidotal  result  the 
remedy  must  be  given  repeatedly  in  order  to  meet  the  alkaloid  poi- 
sons as  they  are  passing  through  the  fourth  stomach.  While  certain 
substances  like  tannic  acid  and  potassium  permanganate  are  the 
logical  antidotes  for  plant  poisons,  in  practical  application  they  are 
^ery  disappointing  in  the  treatment  of  ruminant  animals.  Reliance 
must  be  mainly  on  prevention  and  upon  such  remedies  as  will  in- 
crease elimination.  A  laxative  or  purgative  is  always  helpful,  and 
for  this  purpose  Epsom  salt  may  be  given  in  pound  doses,  or  linseed 
oil  in  doses  of  1  or  2  pints.  In  some  few  cases  special  remedies  can 
be  given  as  is  indicated  below. 

ACORNS. 

Many  cases  of  the  poisoning  of  cattle  by  acorns  have  been  reported 
in  England  and  Germany,  and  there  have  been  some  complaints  in 
the  United  States.  Harmful  results  do  not  seem  likely  to  occur 
except  as  the  acorns  are  eaten  in  a  considerable  quantity,  and  a 
change  of  diet  ordinarily  leads  to  recovery.  The  most  prominent 
symptoms  are  depression  and  constipation,  followed  by  diarrhea. 

HORSE    CHESTNUT— BUCKEYE. 

All  the  species  of  ^sculus,  popularly  known  as  horse  chestnut  or 
buckeye,  are  considered  poisonous.  The  bark,  leaves,  and  fruit  are 
injurious.  It  is  said  that  if  the  fruit  is.  boiled  or  roasted  and  washed 
out  it  becomes  harmless  and  even  is  a  desirable  addition  to  the  feed 
of  cattle.  The  Indians  in  time  of  scarcity  of  food  have  used  the  fruit 
after  preparing  it  in  this  way.  The  buckeyes  are  said  to  have  a 
specific  effect  in  producing  abortion  in  cattle  and  goats. 

FLY  POISON— CHROSPERMA. 

This  plant,  belonging  to  the  lily  family,  and  sometimes  kno^sTn  as 
"  stagger  grass,"  causes  a  considerable  loss  in  the  Southern  States. 
It  grows  earlier  than  the  grasses,  and  on  this  account  is  more  likely 
to  be  eaten.  It  is  very  poisonous.  It  produces  pronounced  nausea, 
resulting  in  vomiting  and  weakness,  and  in  cases  which  recover  the 
effects  may  continue  for  several  days.  Apparently  the  injurious 
effects  are  more  common  in  the  case  of  cattle  than  in  other  domestic 
animals.  There  is  no  known  way  of  treating  these  animals,  though 
doubtless  purgatives  would  be  beneficial. 

YEW    (TAXUS  BACCATA). 

The  European  yew  has  long  been  known  as  a  very  poisonous  plant. 
It  is  cultivated  in  America,  and  while  cases  of  poisoning  have  not 
been  common,  it  is  well  to  recognize  its  dangerous  character.     A 


POISONS  AND  POISONING.  65 

comparatively  small  dose  is  poisonous  and  ordinarily  acts  with  great 
rapidity.  It  causes  respiratory  paralysis  and  the  animal  dies  in 
convulsions. 

LAUREL. 

The  laurels,  including  the  broad-leafed  laurel,  Kalmia  latifolia^ 
the  narrow-leafed  laurel,  Kalmm  angustifolia^  the  rhododendrons, 
and  other  closely  related  plants  are  poisonous  and  cause  considerable 
losses.  It  is  dangerous  to  let  cattle  graze  where  these  plants  are 
abundant  at  times  when  other  forage  is  scarce.  The  symptoms  are 
salivation,  nausea  and  vomiting,  spasms,  dizziness,  stupor,  and  death. 

FERN. 

The  common  brake  or  bracken  fern,  Pteris  aqwilina^  has  been  con- 
sidered responsible  for  the  poisoning  of  many  hoi^ses  and  cattle. 
Many  cases  have  been  reported  in  England  and  Germany,  and  some 
well-authenticated  cases  in  the  United  States.  Very  little  has  been 
learned  experimentally  of  fern  poisoning,  but  there  seems  to  be  little 
question  that  it  has  been  the  cause  of  many  deaths.  The  symptoms 
are  said  to  be  temperature  higher  than  normal,  loss  of  appetite, 
bloody  discharges  from  mouth,  nose,  and  bowels,  and  great  depres- 
sion followed  by  coma  and  death.  Some  authors  say  that  the  urine 
is  colored  by  blood.  It  is  thought  by  some  that  the  disease  known  as 
"  red  water "  in  the  northwestern  United  States  and  Canada  is 
caused  by  eating  ferns. 

SORGHUM  POISONING. 

Under  certain  conditions  sorghum  contains  enough  hydrocyanic 
acid  to  make  it  exceedingly  dangerous  to  cattle.  These  cases  of  poi- 
soning most  commonly  occur  when  cattle  are  pastured  upon  the 
young  plant  or  upon  a  field  where  the  crop  has  been  cut  and  is  mak- 
ing a  second  gi'owth.  .Conditions  of  drought  make  the  sorghum 
especially  dangerous.  There  is  some  reason  to  think  that  the  frosted 
second  growth  is  particularly  rich  in  hydrocyanic  acid.  The  cases 
of  poisoning  occur  when  animals  are  grazed  upon  the  plant,  but  not 
from  the  harvested  crop  or  from  silage.  If  cattle  are  grazed  on 
sorghum  or  sorghum  stubble  they  should  at  first  be  under  constant 
observation  and  should  be  removed  as  soon  as  any  signs  of  illness 
appear.     Similar  precautions  should  be  used  in  grazing  kafir. 

CORNSTALK  DISEASE. 

Considerable  losses  of  cattle  have  occurred  when  they  were  turned 

upon  cornfields  in  the  fall.     Deaths  come  very  suddenly  and  there 

is  no  opportunity  to  apply  remedies.    It  has  been  thought  that  these 

fatalities,  like  those  from  sorghum,  were  caused  by  hydrocyanic  acid, 

33071°— 16 5 


66  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

but  there  is  good  reason  to  think  that  this  is  not  true,  and  at  the 
present  time  there  is  no  accepted  explanation  of  this  disease,  al- 
though there  seems  to  be  no  doubt  that  it  is  connected  in  some  way 
with  the  condition  of  the  corn.  Whether  a  given  field  is  poisonous 
or  not  can  only  be  determined  by  experiment,  and  the  wise  farmer 
will  keep  his  cattle  under  close  observation  when  they  are  first  turned 
into  a  cornfield. 

WATER   HEMLOCK    (CICUTA). 

This  plant,  growing  in  wet  places  by  ditches  and  along  creeks, 
is  the  most  poisonous  of  North  American  plants.  The  root  is  the 
poisonous  part,  and  cattle  generally  get  it  when  it  is  plowed  up  or 
washed  out  by  high  water.  Sometimes  they  pull  it  up,  for  the  plant 
occasionally  grows  out  into  ditches  so  that  the  whole  plant  will  be 
taken  in  grazing.  The  most  marked  symptoms  of  Cicuta  poisoning 
are  the  violent  convulsions,  which  remind  one  of  the  effect  of 
strychnin. 

Treatment. — Little  can  be  done  in  the  way  of  treatment.  The 
logical  thing  is  to  attempt  to  control  the  convulsions  by  means  of 
morphia,  but  in  view  of  the  fact  that  the  stomach  can  not  be  emptied, 
the  prognosis  is  not  good,  and  most  cases  die. 

LARKSPURS. 

The  larkspurs  are  a  source  of  heavy  loss  to  cattle  owners  in  the 
higher  ranges  of  the  West.  There  are  a  number  of  species,  growing 
at  altitudes  from  4,000  feet  to  timber  line,  and  all  are  poisonous. 
KSome  few  cases  of  poisoning  by  larkspurs  have  been  reported  in  the 
eastern  United  States,  but  most  of  the  losses  are  confined  to  the 
West,  both  because  larkspurs  grow  there  in  greater  profusion  and 
because  cattle  are  grazed  in  that  region  on  the  open  ranges.  The 
losses  are  confined  to  cattle,  for  sheep  and  horses  can  graze  on  lark- 
spur with  no  resulting  harm.  Most  of  the  larkspur  losses  occiu-  in 
the  spring  and  early  summer,  as  the  plants  lose  their  toxicity  after 
maturing. 

SymptoTns. — Larkspur  poisoning  is  accompanied  by  a  definite  line 
of  symptoms.  In  range  animals  the  first  symptom  noted  is  generally 
the  sudden  falling  of  the  animal  and  consequent  inability  to  rise. 
After  a  while  it  may  rise,  only  to  fall  again.  This  may  happen  re- 
peatedly. In  severe  cases  the  animal  lies  prone  and  exhibits  nausea, 
accompanied  by  vomiting.  It  dies  of  respiratory  paralysis,  death 
many  times  being  hastened  by  the  asphyxia  following  the  vomiting. 

Treatinent' — The  animal,  if  found  down,  should  be  turned  so  that 
its  head  is  uphill  in  order  to  relieve  the  lungs.  Many  cases  will 
recover  with  no  further  treatment.     Nearlv  all  cases  will  recover 


POISONS   AND  POISONING.  67 

if  a  hypodermic  injection  is  given  immediately  of  pliysostigmin 
salicylate  1  grain,  pilocarpin  hydrochlorid  2  grains,  strychnin  sul- 
phate ^  grain. 

LOCO. 

The  loco  plants  have  caused  especially  heavy  losses  of  cattle,  horses, 
and  sheep.  They  grow  in  the  semiarid  regions  of  the  West  and  some- 
times in  great  luxuriance.  The  best  known  are  the  "  woolly  loco  " 
or  "purple  loco"  and  the  "white  loco"  or  "rattle  weed."  The 
purple  loco,  Astragalus  mollissimus^  is  common  in  Texas  and  the 
adjoining  States  and  extends  north  as  far  as  Nebraska  and  Colorado. 
It  is  especially  destructive  to  horses.  The  white  loco,  Oxytropis  lam- 
Ijerti^  is  still  more  widely  distributed,  being  found  in  the  plains 
region  from  Alaska  to  Mexico  and  west  of  the  Eocky  Mountains  to 
central  Utah.  The  white  loco  is  much  more  important  than  the 
purple  loco,  for  it  affects  not  only  horses  but  cattle  and  sheep.  These 
plants  belong  to  the  pea  family,  and  there  are  a  number  of  other 
species  of  this  family  in  Arizona,  New  Mexico,  and  California  that 
are  loco  plants  and  produce  the  same  symptoms.  Just  how  many  of 
these  loco  plants  there  are  is  not  known,  as  definite  experimental  work 
has  been  carried  on  only  in  the  cases  of  the  white  loco  and  the  purple 
loco. 

Syrrbftorris. — Loco  poisoning  is  a  chronic  condition  and  symptoms 
are  shown  only  after  somewhat  prolonged  feeding.  The  condition 
is  one  of  cumulative  poisoning,  and  animals  sometimes  decline  very 
rapidly  after  the  first  symptoms  appear.  In  many  cases  animals 
acquire  a  habit  of  eating  loco  and  prefer  it  to  any  other  feed.  The 
poison  affects  the  central  nervous  system.  There  is  a  lack  of  mus- 
cular coordination  and  the  animal  performs  very  erratic  movements. 
In  the  later  stages  the  animal  becomes  emaciated  and  eventually  dies 
of  starvation. 

Treatment. — Locoed  animals  are  badly  constipated,  and  it  is  im- 
portant that  this  condition  should  be  remedied  at  the  start.  Any 
purgative  can  be  used,  but  Epsom  salt  has  been  found  especially 
effective.  If  locoed  animals  can  be  turned  into  a  field  of  alfalfa,  a 
large  proportion  of  them  will  recover  with  no  further  treatment. 
Recovery  may  be  aided  by  giving  cattle,  hypodermically,  daily  doses 
of  three-twentieths  to  four-twentieths  grain  of  strychnin.  By  this 
treatment  cattle  can  be  cured  and  put  in  condition  for  market. 

ERGOTISM. 

The  poisonous  effects  of  ergot  (Pis.  V,  VI)  appear  chiefly  in  the 
winter  and  spring  of  the  year  and  among  cattle.  It  is  developed 
among  grasses  grown  on  rich  soil  in  hot,  damp  seasons.  Rye  seems 
more  liable  to  ergot  than  any  of  our  other  crops.     Of  the  grasses 


68  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

which  enter  into  the  composition  of  haj^  bhiegrass  is  the  most  likely 
to  become  affected.  Ergot  may  also  affect  redtop,  oats,  grasses, 
and  grains.  On  the  plant  the  fungus  manifests  itself  on  the  seeds, 
where  it  is  easily  recognized  Avhen  the  hay  is  examined  in  the  mow. 
The  ergotized  seeds  are  several  times  larger  than  the  natural  seeds — 
hard,  black,  and  generally  curved  in  shape. 

The  effect  of  the  protracted  use  of  ergot  in  the  feed  is  pretty  well 
understood  to  be  that  of  producing  a  degeneration  and  obstruction 
of  the  smaller  arterial  branches.  The  result  is  to  shut  off  the  blood 
supply  to  the  distal  parts  of  the  body,  where  the  circulation  is  weak- 
est, and  thus  to  produce  a  mummification  or  dry  gangrene  of  the 
extremities,  as  the  ears,  tail,  feet,  etc.  Cattle  seem  to  be  more  suscep- 
tible than  other  animals  to  the  influence  of  ergot,  possibly  on  account 
of  the  slowness  of  the  heart's  action.  AA-lien  the  effect  of  the  poison 
has  become  sufficient  to  entirely  arrest  the  circulation  in  any  part,  the 
structures  soon  die.  The  disorder  manifests  itself  as  lameness  in  one 
or  more  limbs;  swelling  about  the  ankle  which  may  result  in  only 
a  small  slough  or  the  loss  of  a  toe,  but  it  may  circumscribe  the  limb 
at  any  point  below  the  knee  or  hock  by  an  indented  ring,  below 
which  the  tissues  become  dead.  The  indentation  soon  changes  to  a 
crack,  which  extends  completely  around  the  limb,  forming  the  line 
of  separation  between  the  dead  and  living  structures.  The  crack 
deepens  till  the  parts  below  drop  off  without  loss  of  blood,  and  fre- 
quently with  very  little  pus.  Ergot  may  cause  serious  in-itation  of 
the  digestive  tract,  or  by  acting  upon  the  nervous  system  it  may 
cause  lethargy  or  paralysis.  It  also  operates  to  cause  contraction  of 
the  uterus,  and  may  thus  cause  abortion. 

Treatment. — Regarding  the  treatrnent,  change  of  feed  and  local 
antiseptics  are,  of  course,  indicated.  The  former  may  be  useful  as  a 
preventive,  but  when  the  symptoms  have  appeared  the  animal  is  nec- 
essarily so  completely  saturated  that  recovery  is  likely  to  be  tedious. 
Tannin  ma;'/  be  given  internally  in  doses  of  one-half  dram  twice 
daily  for  a  few  days  to  neutralize  the  unabsorbed  alkaloids  of  the 
ergot.  At  the  same  time  give  castor  oil.  To  dilate  the  blood  vessels 
give  chloral  hydrate.  Bathe  the  affected  parts  with  hot  water.  If 
sloughing  has  gone  far,  amputation  must  be  resorted  to. 

OTHER   POISONOUS   FUNGI. 

Many  other  fungi  poison  herbivora.  In  some  instances,  however, 
where  fungi  are  blamed  for  causing  disease  their  presence  on  the 
feedstuff  or  herbage  is  but  coincidental  with  some  other  and  more 
potent  disease-producing  factor.  For  example,  if  the  conditions  are 
favorable  to  the  growth  of  fungi  they  are  also  favorable  to  the 
growth  of  bacteria,  and  bacteria  may  produce  poisons  in  feeds.  In 
general  it  may  be  said  that  any  feed  that  is  moldy,  musty,  or  putrid 


POISONS  AND  POISONING.  69 

is  possibly  dangei^ous.  Silage,  properly  cured,  does  not  belong  to  this 
class,  because  the  curing  of  silage  is  not  a  bacterial  process.  But 
spoiled  silage  and  silage  matted  with  mold  is  dangerous  and  should 

not  be  fed. 

POISONING  BY  ANIMAL  PRODUCTS. 

SNAKE  BITES. 

The  poison  contained  in  the  tooth  glands  of  certain  venomous  rep- 
tiles, particularly  some  of  the  snakes,  which  is  injected  into  or  mider 
the  skin  of  an  animal  bitten  by  the  reptile,  is  a  very  powerful  agent. 
It  is  likely  to  produce  a  serious  local  irritation,  and  in  the  case  of  the 
more  poisonous  snakes  serious  constitutional  disturbances,  even  to 
causing  death,  which  it  may  do  in  either  of  two  ways:  First,  Avhen 
very  strong,  by  exerting  a  narcotic  influence  similar  to  that  of  some  of 
the  powerful  poisons,  checking  heart  action.  Second,  by  diffused 
inflammation  of  the  areolar  tissue,  gangrene,  and  extensive  sloughing. 

Symptoms. — The  symptoms  of  snake  bite  are  a  local  swelling 
caused  by  an  intense  local  inflammation,  pricks  showing  where  the 
fangs  penetrated,  depression,  weakness,  feeble  pulse,  difficult  breath- 
ing, bluish  discoloration  of  the  visible  mucous  membranes,  stupor, 
or  convulsions.  If  the  poison  is  not  powerful  or  plentiful  enough 
to  produce  death,  it  is,  at  any  rate,  likely  to  cause  severe  local  ab- 
scesses or  sloughs. 

Treatment. — The  treatment  may  be  divided  into  local  and  general. 
Locally  every  effort  should  be  made  to  prevent  absorption  of  the 
poison.  If  discovered  at  once  the  bitten  part  had  better  be  excised. 
If  that  is  impracticable  and  a  ligature  can  be  apj^lied,  as  in  the  case 
of  a  bite  to  one  of  the  limbs,  no  time  should  be  lost  in  applying  it 
above  the  injury.  It  should  be  made  sufficiently  tight  to  so  far  as 
possible  arrest  circulation  in  the  bitten  part.  The  wound  should  be 
freely  incised,  so  that  it  will  bleed  freely,  and  the  poison  should  be 
extracted  by  cupping,  or  pressed  out  by  squeezing  with  the  fingers. 
Permanganate  of  potassium  in  5  per  cent  solution  should  be  applied  to 
and  injected  into  the  wound.  The  depressing  effect  of  the  poison  on 
the  general  system  should  be  counteracted  by  hypodermic  injections 
of  strychnin,  or  by  liberal  drenching  with  stimulants,  such  as  alcohol, 
coffee,  digitalis,  or  the  aromatic  spirits  or  carbonate  of  ammonia. 
In  animal  practice  the  alcoholic  stimulants  and  local  treatment 
above  described  are  likely  to  meet  with  best  success.  A  special 
antitoxin  for  use  in  treating  snake  bite  is  now  prepared  and  may  be 
had  from  the  leading  druggists.    It  is  quite  effective  if  used  promptly. 

WASP  AND   BEE   STINGS. 

Wasps  and  bees  secrete  a  poisonous  substance  which  they  are  able 
to  insert  through  the  skin  of  an  animal  by  the  aid  of  their  sharp 


70  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

stings.  This  poison  is  a  severe  local  irritant  and  may  even  cause 
local  gangrene.  It  also  has  a  depressing  effect  upon  the  central 
nervous  sj^stem  and  destroys  the  red-blood  corpuscles.  To  produce 
these  general  effects  it  must  be  introduced  in  very  large  quantities,  as 
when  an  animal  is  stung  by  a  swarm  of  bees  or  wasps. 

Treatment. — The  treatment  is  to  wash  the  parts  with  diluted  am- 
monia or  permanganate  of  potassium  solution  and  to  give  stimulants 
internally.  If  there  is  so  much  swelling  about  the  head  and  nostrils 
as  to  interfere  with  breathing,  tracheotomy  may  be  necessary. 

POISONING  WITH   SPANISH  FLY. 

Spanish  fly,  in  the  form  of  powdered  cantharides,  may  be  given  in 
an  overdose,  or  when  applied  as  a  blister  to  too  large  a  surface  of 
skin  enough  vc\^y  be  absorbed  to  poison.  If  given  b}^  the  mouth,  it 
causes  severe  irritation  of  the  gastrointestinal  tract,  shown  by  saliva- 
tion, sore  throat,  colic,  bloody  diarrhea,  etc.  It  also  produces,  whether 
given  by  the  mouth  or  absorbed  through  the  skin,  irritation  of  the 
urinary  tract,  as  shown  by  frequent  and  painful  urination.  If  death 
results,  it  is  due  to  respirator}'^  paralysis. 

Treatment. — Give  f)rotectives  and  the  white  of  egg,  with  of)ium. 
Do  not  give  oils  or  alcohol. 


DISEASES   OF  THE   HEART,  BLOOD  VESSELS,  AND 

LYMPHATICS. 

By  W.  H.  Habbaugh,  V.  S. 
[Revised  by  Leonard  Pearson,  B.  S.,  V.  M.  D.] 

THE  CIRCULATORY  SYSTEM. 

In  cattle,  as  in  human  beings,  the  heart,  blood  vessels,  and  lym- 
phatics may  be  described  as  the  circulatory  apparatus. 

The  heart  is  in  the  thoracic  cavity  (chest).  It  is  conical  in  form, 
with  the  base  or  large  part  uppermost,  while  the  apex,  or  point, 
rests  just  above  the  sternum  (breastbone).  It  is  situated  between 
the  right  and  left  lungs,  the  apex  inclining  to  the  left,  and  owing 
to  this  the  heart  beats  are  best  felt  on  the  left  side  of  the  chest,  behind 
the  elbow.  The  heart  may  be  considered  as  a  hollow  muscle,  contain- 
ing four  compartments,  two  on  each  side.  The  upper  compartments 
are  called  auricles  and  the  lower  ones  ventricles.  The  right  auricle 
and  ventricle  are  completely  separated  from  the  left  auricle  and 
ventricle  by  a  thick  septum  or  wall,  so  that  there  is  no  communication 
between  the  right  and  left  sides  of  the  organ. 

At  the  bottom  of  each  auricle  is  the  auriculo-ventricular  opening, 
each  provided  with  a  valve  to  close  it  when  the  heart  contracts  to 
force  the  blood  into  the  arteries.  In  the  interval  between  the  con- 
tractions these  valves  hang  down  into  the  ventricles. 

The  muscular  tissue  of  the  heart  belongs  to  that  class  known  as 
involuntary,  because  its  action  is  not  controlled  by  the  will. 

The  cavities  of  the  heart  are  lined  by  serous  membrane,  called  the 
endocardium,  which  may  be  considered  as  a  continuation  of  the  veins 
and  the  arteries,  forming  their  internal  lining.  The  walls  of  the 
ventricles  are  thicker  than  those  of  the  auricles,  and  the  walls  of  the 
left  ventricle  are  much  thicker  than  those  of  the  right. 

The  heart  is  enveloped  by  a  fibrous  sac  (or  bag),  called  the  pericar- 
dium, which  assumes  much  of  the  general  shape  of  the  outer  surface 
of  the  heart. 

The  action  of  the  heart  is  similar  to  that  of  a  pump  and  its  function 
is  to  keep  the  blood  in  circulation.  The  auricles  may  be  considered  as 
the  reservoirs  or  receivers  of  the  blood  and  the  ventricles  as  the  pump 
chambers.  During  the  interval  between  contractions,  the  heart  being 
in  momentary  repose,  the  blood  pours  into  the  auricles  from  the 

71 


72  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

veins;  the  auriculo- ventricular  orifices  being  Tvidely  open,  the  ven- 
tricles also  receive  blood ;  the  auricles  contract  and  the  ventricles  are 
filled;  contraction  of  the  ventricles  follows;  the  auriculo- ventricular 
valves  are  forced  up  by  the  pressure  of  the  blood  and  close  the  auric- 
ulo-ventricular  openings  and  prevent  the  return  of  blood  into  the 
auricles;  the  contraction  of  the  ventricles  forces  the  blood  from  the 
right  ventricle  into  the  lungs  through  the  pulmonary  artery  and  its 
branches,  and  from  the  left  ventricle  into  the  aorta,  thence  through 
the  arteries  to  all  parts  of  the  body.  After  the  contraction  of  the 
ventricles  the  heart  is  again  in  momentary  repose  and  being  filled 
with  blood,  while  the  valves  in  the  aorta  and  pulmonary  artery  close 
to  prevent  the  return  of  blood  into  the  ventricles.     (See  PL  VII.) 

The  average  weight  of  the  heart  of  an  ox  is  said  to  be  from  3^  to  5 
pounds ;  but,  of  course,  owing  to  the  many  breeds  and  sizes  of  cattle, 
it  must  vary  in  different  animals. 

The  vessels  that  convey  the  blood  from  the  heart  to  all  parts  of 
the  body  are  called  arteries;  those  which  return  the  blood  to  the 
heart  are  called  veins.  The  arteries  divide  and  subdivide  (like  the 
branches  of  a  tree),  become  smaller  and  smaller,  and  ultimately 
ramify  into  every  part  of  the  body.  Between  the  ultimate  ramifica- 
tions of  the  arteries  and  the  beginning  of  the  veins  there  is  an  inters 
mediate  system  of  very  minute  vessels  called  capillaries,  which  con- 
nect the  arterial  with  the  venous  system  of  the  circulation.  The 
walls  of  the  arteries  are  possessed  of  a  certain  amount  of  rigidity, 
sufficient  to  keep  the  tubes  open  when  they  are  empty. 

The  blood  leaves  the  left  ventricle  through  a  single  vessel,  the  com- 
mon aorta,  consisting  of  the  anterior  and  posterior  aortas,  which 
give  off  the  large  arteries. 

The  veins  take  the  blood  from  the  capillaries  in  all  parts  of  the 
body.  They  begin  in  very  small  tubes,  which  unite  to  become  larger 
in  size  and  less  in  number  as  they  approach  the  heart. 

In  its  course  an  artery  is  usually  accompanied  with  a  vein  and  in 
many  situations  with  a  nerve.  The  more  important  arteries  are 
placed  deep  within  the  body;  when  they  are  superficial,  however, 
they  are  generally  found  where  least  exposed  to  injury,  as,  for  exam- 
ple, on  the  inner  side  of  the  legs.  Arteries  are  le&s  numerous  than 
veins,  and  their  total  capacity  is  much  less  than  that  of  the  veins 
A  great  number  of  veins  are  in  the  tissue  immediately  beneath  the 
skin  and  do  not  generally  accompany  arteries. 

The  blood,  throughout  its  course  in  the  heart,  arteries,  capillaries, 
and  veins,  is  inclosed  within  these  vessels.  Except  where  the  large 
lymphatics  empty  into  the  venous  blood,  there  is  no  opening  into  the 
course  of  the  blood. 

All  the  arteries  except  the  pulmonary  and  its  branches  carry 
bright-red   blood,   and   all   the   veins,  except   the   puhnonary   veins. 


DISEASES  OF  THE  HEART,  BLOOD  VESSELS,  AND  LYMPHATICS.       73 

carry  dark-red  blood.  The  impure  dark-red  blood  is  collected  from 
the  capillary  vessels  and  carried  to  the  right  auricle  by  the  veins ;  it 
passes  down  into  the  right  ventricle,  and  thence  into  the  pulmonary 
artery  and  through  its  branches  to  the  capillaries  of  the  lungs,  where 
the  carbonic-acid  gas  and  other  impurities  are  given  up  to  the  air  in 
the  air  cells  of  the  lungs  (through  the  thin  walls  between  the  capilla- 
ries and  the  air  cells),  and  where  it  also  absorbs  from  the  air  the 
oxygen  gas  necessary  to  sustain  life.  This  gas  changes  it  to  the 
bright-red,  pure  blood.  It  passes  from  the  capillaries  to  the  branches 
of  the  pulmonary  veins,  which  convey  it  to  the  left  auricle  of  the 
heart;  it  then  passes  through  the  auriculo- ventricular  opening  into 
the  left  ventricle,  the  contraction  of  which  forces  it  through  the 
common  aorta  into  the  posterior  and  anterior  aortas,  and  through  all 
the  arteries  of  the  body  into  the  capillaries,  where  it  parts  with  its 
ox^'gen  and  nutritive  elements  and  where  it  absorbs  carbonic-acid 
gas  and  becomes  dark  colored.  (See  theoretical  diagram  of  the 
circulation,  PL  VII.) 

The  branches  of  certain  arteries  in  different  parts  unite  again  after 
subdividing.  This  reuniting  is  called  anastomosing,  and  assures  a 
quota  of  blood  to  a  part  if  one  of  the  anastomosing  arteries  should  be 
tied  in  case  of  hemorrhage,  or  should  be  destroyed  by  accident  or 
operation. 

THE  BLOOD. 

The  various  kinds  of  food,  after  being  digested  in  the  alimentary 
canal,  are  absorbed  and  carried  into  the  blood  by  the  lymphatics,  and 
by  the  blood  to  the  places  where  nutrition  is  required.  The  blood 
takes  from  all  parts  of  the  body  all  that  is  no  longer  required,  and 
carries  it  to  the  different  organs  through  w^hich  it  is  eliminated 
from  the  body.  It  contains  within  itself  all  the  elements  which 
nourish  the  body. 

The  blood  may  be  considered  as  a  fluid  holding  in  solution  certain 
inorganic  elements  and  having  certain  bodies  suspended  in  it.  To 
facilitate  description,  the  blood  may  be  considered  as  made  up  of  the 
corpuscles  and  the  liquor  sanguinis.  The  corpuscles  are  of  two  kinds, 
the  red  and  the  white,  the  red  being  the  more  numerous.  The  color 
of  the  blood  is  caused  by  the  coloring  matter  in  the  red  corpuscles, 
which  are  the  oxygen  carriers.  Both  kinds  are  very  minute  bodies, 
which  require  the  aid  of  the  microscope  to  recognize  them.  The 
liquor  sanguinis  is  composed  of  water  containing  in  solution  salts, 
albumen,  and  the  elements  of  fibrin. 

The  lymphatics,  or  absorbents,  are  the  vessels  which  carry  the 
lymph  and  chyle  in  the  blood.  Thej'^  begin  as  capillaries  in  all  parts 
of  the  body,  gradually  uniting  to  form  larger  trunks.  Placed  along 
the  course  of  the  lymphatic  vessels  are  glands,  in  some  situations 
collected  into  groups;  for  example,  in  the  groin.     These  glands  are 


74  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

often    involved    in    inflammation    arising    from   the    absorption   of 
deleterious  matter. 

Absorption  is  the  function  of  the  lymphatics.  The  liquor  san- 
guinis passes  from  the  blood  capillaries  to  supply  nutrition  to  the 
tissues.  All  of  the  liquor  sanguinis  that  is  not  required  is  absorbed 
by  the  lymphatic  vessels  and  conveyed  back  to  the  blood  by  the  h'm- 
phatic  ducts.  The  lymphatics  which  proceed  from  the  intestines 
convey  the  chyle  into  the  blood  during  digestion.  As  a  rule,  the 
lymphatic  vessels  follow  the  course  of  the  veins.  All  the  absorbent 
vessels  convey  their  contents  to  the  thoracic  duct  and  right  great 
lymphatic  vein,  which  empty  into  the  anterior  vena  cava,  where 
the  lymph  and  chyle  mix  with  the  venous  blood,  and  thus  maintain 
the  supply  of  nutritive  elements  in  the  blood. 

THE  PULSE. 

As  fully  explained,  the  heart  pumps  the  blood  throughout  the 
arterial  system.  The  arteries  are  always  full  and  each  contraction  of 
the  ventricle  pumps  more  blood  into  them ;  this  distends  their  elastic 
walls  and  sends  along  them  a  wave  which  graduall}^  becomes  less 
perceptible  as  it  nears  the  very  small  arteries.  This  wave  constitutes 
the  pulse,  and  is  lost  before  the  capillaries  are  reached.  The  sen- 
sation or  impression  given  to  the  finger  when  placed  upon  the  artery 
shows  the  force  exerted  by  the  heart  and  some  important  facts  con- 
cerning the  condition  of  the  circulation.  In  adult  cattle  the  average 
number  of  pulsations  in  a  minute  is  from  50  to  60.  The  pulse  is 
faster  than  normal  after  exercise,  excitement,  on  hot  days,  from 
pain,  and  as  a  result  of  fullness  of  the  stomach.  In  old  animals  it  is 
slower  than  in  the  young  and  in  males  slightly  slower  than  in 
females.  In  fevers  and  inflammations  and  in  local  diseases  of  the 
heart  the  pulse  rate  is  increased.  If  the  rate  is  greater  than  100  or 
110  to  the  minute  the  outlook  for  recovery  is  not  good. 

Other  variations  of  the  pulse  are  known  as  infrequent  pulse,  which 
means  that  the  number  of  pulsations  in  a  given  time  is  less  than  nor- 
mal. The  irregular  or  the  intermittent  pulse  is  when  the  pulsations 
do  not  follow  in  regular  order.  The  large  pulse  and  the  small  pulse 
refer  to  the  volume  of  the  pulse,  which  may  be  larger  or  smaller 
than  usual.  The  strong  pulse  and  the  feeble  pulse  refer  to  the 
strength  or  weakness  of  the  pulsation.  The  pulse  is  said  to  be  hard 
when  the  vessel  feels  hard  and  incompressible,  the  soft  pulse  being 
the  opposite.  By  dicrotic  pulse  is  meant  that  kind  of  pulsation 
Avhich  makes  each  beat  seem  double,  and  therefore  it  is  generally 
called  the  double  pulse. 

The  venous  or  "jugular  pulse"  is  the  pulsation  so  frequently 
observed  in  the  jugular  vein  of  cattle  and  is  particularly  noticeable 
while  they  are  ruminating — ^"  chewing  the  cud."     It  is  not  always 


DISEASES  OF  THE  HEART,  BLOOD  VESSELS,  AND  LYMPHATICS.       75 

associated  with  disease,  but  may  be  a  symptom  of  some  disease  of  the 
heart;  in  such  cases  the  jugular  pulse  is  continuous. 

The  place  selected  for  feeling  the  pulse  in  cattle  is  where  the 
submaxillary  artery  winds  around  the  low^er  jawbones,  just  at  the 
lower  edge  of  the  flat  muscle  on  the  side  of  the  cheek ;  or,  if  the  cow 
is  lying  down,  the  metacarpal  artery  on  the  back  part  of  the  fore 
fetlock  is  very  convenient  for  the  purpose. 

THE  EXAMINATION  OF  THE  HEART. 

Corresponding  to  the  beats  of  the  heart  two  sounds  are  emitted 
which  are  of  a  definite  type  in  healthy  animals.  The  first  is  pro- 
duced by  the  contraction  of  the  heart  and  the  flow  of  blood  out  of  it ; 
the  second  is  caused  by  the  rebound  of  blood  in  the  aorta  and  the 
closure  of  the  valves  that  prevent  it  from  flowing  backward  into  the 
heart,  whence  it  came.  The  first  sound  is  the  longer  and  louder  of 
the  two,  though  of  low  pitch.  The  second  sound  is  sharper  and 
shorter,  and  is  not  always  easy  to  hear.  There  is  a  brief  interval 
between  them. 

To  distinguish  these  sounds,  the  ear  is  placed  against  the  left  side 
of  the  chest,  a  little  above  the  point  where  the  elbow  rests  when  the 
animal  is  standing  in  a  natural  position,  and  about  opposite  the  sixth 
rib.  Both  heart  sounds  are  reduced  in  intensity  when  the  animal  is 
weak  or  when  the  heart  is  forced  away  from  the  chest  wall  by  col- 
lections of  fluid  or  by  tubercular  or  other  gi'owths.  Nonrhythmical 
heart  sound  is  often  caused  by  pericarditis  or  by  disease  of  the 
valves.  It  may  also  be  attributable  to  overfilling  of  the  heart  upon 
the  right  side,  as  occurs  in  severe  congestion  of  the  lungs  and  in 
some  febrile  diseases. 

In  pericarditis,  sounds  like  scraping,  rubbing,  or  splashing  may  be 
heard,  entirely  apart  from  the  two  normal  sounds  above  described. 

The  impulse  of  the  heart,  as  felt  by  placing  the  hand  against  the 
chest,  is  of  some  consequence  in  reaching  a  conclusion  in  respect  to 
disease  of  the  heart;  but  it  must  be  remembered  that  the  impulse 
may  be  very  much  increased  by  diseases  other  than  those  of  the  heart, 
as,  for  example,  inflammation  of  various  organs,  severe  pains,  etc. 
The  impulse  may  be  increased  also  (when  disease  does  not  exist)  by 
work,  exercise,  fright,  or  any  cause  of  excitement,  or,  in  general,  by 
anything  that  causes  acceleration  of  the  pulse. 

The  impulse  of  the  heart  may  be  felt  and  the  sounds  may  be  heard 
fairly  well  in  lean  cattle,  but  in  fat  ones  it  is  difficult  and  often 
impossible  to  detect  either  impulse  or  sound  with  any  degree  of 
satisfaction. 

PALPITATION. 

"Wlien  the  impulse  of  the  heart  is  excessive — that  is,  when  it  beats 
more  or  less  tumultuously — the  familiar  expression  "  palpitation  of 


76  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

the  heart "  is  applied;  by  many  it  is  called  "  thumps."  The  hand  02 
ear  placed  against  the  chest  easily  detects  the  unnatural  beating.  In 
some  cases  it  is  so  violent  that  the  motion  may  be  seen  at  a  distance. 
Palpitation  is  but  a  symptom,  and  in  many  instances  not  connected 
"with  disease  of  the  structure  of  the  heart  or  its  membranes.  A  badly 
frightened  animal  may  haA'e  palpitation.  "Wlien  it  comes  on  sud- 
denly and  soon  passes  away,  it  depends  on  some  cause  other  than 
diseases  of  the  heart;  ^Yhen  it  is  gradually  manifested,  however,  and 
becomes  constant,  although  more  pronounced  at  one  time  than  an- 
other, heart  disease  may  be  suspected,  especially  if  other  symptoms 
of  heart  disease  are  present. 

INJURY  TO  THE  HEART  BY  FOREIGN  BODIES. 

Cattle  are  addicted  to  the  habit  of  chewing  and  swallowing  many 
objects  not  intended  as  articles  of  food.  Every  veterinarian  of  ex- 
perience has  met  with  instances  to  remind  him  of  this,  and  it  is  well 
known  to  butchers.  Among  the  great  variety  of  things  that  have 
thus  found  their  way  into  the  stomachs  of  cattle  the  following  have 
been  noticed :  Finger  rings,  knitting  needles,  old  shoes,  table  knives, 
wood,  pieces  of  leather,  pieces  of  wire,  buttons,  hairpins,  brushes, 
nails,  coins  etc.  The  more  sharply-pointed  objects  sometimes  pene- 
trate the  wall  of  the  stomach  during  which  they  may  or  may  not 
cause  gastric  irritation  enough  to  produce  indigestion,  gradually 
work  their  way  through  the  diaphragm  toward  the  heart,  pierce  the 
pericardium  (bag  inclosing  the  heart),  wound  the  heart,  and  thus 
prove  fatal  to  the  animal.  Cases  ai-e  recorded  in  which  the  foreign 
body  has  actually  worked  its  way  into  one  of  the  cavities  of  the  heart. 
Instances  are  known,  however,  in  which  the  object  took  a  different 
course,  and  finally  worked  its  way  toward  the  surface  and  was  ex- 
tracted from  the  wall  of  the  chest.  While  it  is  possible  that  the 
foreign  body  may  pierce  the  wall  at  different  parts  of  the  alimentary 
canal,  as  it  frequently  does  that  of  the  rumen  (paunch),  it  is  thought 
that  in  most  cases  it  passes  through  the  wall  of  the  reticulum  (smaller 
hoiieycombed  compartment,  or  second  stomach)  and  is  drawn  toward 
the  heart  by  the  suctionlike  action  of  the  chest.  Post-mortem  ex- 
aminations have  demonstrated  the  course  it  pursued,  as  adhesions 
and  other  results  of  the  inflammation  it  caused  were  plainly  to  be 
seen.  All  manner  of  symptoms  may  precede  those  showing  involve- 
ment of  the  heart,  depending  upon  the  location  of  the  foreign  body 
and  the  extent  of  inflammation  caused  by  it.  Severe  indigestion 
may  occur;  stiffness  and  difficulty  in  moving  about  owing  to  the  prods 
of  the  sharp  body  following  muscular  contraction;  pain  on  pressure 
over  the  front,  lower,  or  right  side  of  the  abdomen;  coughing  and 
difficult,  quick  breathing.  In  most  cases  the  foreign  body  does  not 
penetrate  to  the  heart,  nor  even  to  the  pericardium. 


DISEASES  OF  THE  HEART,  BLOOD  VESSELS,  AND  LYMPHATICS.        77 

Symptoms. — The  symptoms  are  as  follows:  The  animal  ]s  disin- 
clined to  move  actively,  the  step  is  restricted  and  cautious,  sudden 
motion  causes  grunting,  the  attitude  is  constrained,  the  feet  are 
drawn  somewhat  together,  the  back  is  arched,  the  face  has  an  anxious 
expression.  If  the  disease  is  of  several  days'  standing,  there  is  likely  to 
be  soft  swelling  (edema)  beneath  the  neck,  in  the  dewlap,  and  under 
the  chest,  between  the  fore  legs.  Breathing  is  short  and  difficult;  it 
may  clearly  be  painful.  The  pulse  is  rapid,  80  to  120  per  minute. 
The  muscles  quiver  as  though  the  animal  were  cold.  Rumination  and 
appetite  are  depressed  or  checked.  The  dung  is  hard,  and  to  void  it 
appears  to  cause  pain.  These  symptoms  usually  develop  gi-adually, 
and,  of  course,  they  vary  considerably  in  different  animals,  depending 
upon  the  size  and  location  of  the  foreign  body  and  the  irritation  it 
causes. 

As  a  matter  of  course,  in  such  cases  treatment  is  useless,  but  when 
it  is  possible  to  diagnose  correctly  the  animal  could  be  turned  over 
to  the  butcher  before  the  flesh  becomes  unfit  for  use ;  that  is,  before 
there  is  more  than  a  little  suppuration  and  before  there  is  fever. 
Knowing  that  cattle  are  prone  to  swallow  such  objects,  ordinary 
care  may  be  taken  in  keeping  their  surroundings  as  free  of  them  as 
possible. 

PERICARDITIS. 

Inflammation  of  the  pericardium  (heart  bag)  is  often  associated 
with  pneumonia  and  pleurisy,  rheumatism,  and  other  constitutional 
diseases,  or  with  an  injury.  It  also  occurs  as  an  independent  affec- 
tion, owing  to  causes  similar  to  those  of  other  chest  affections,  as  ex- 
posure to  cold  or  dampness  and  changes  of  the  weather. 

Symptoms. — It  ma}^  be  ushered  in  with  a  chill,  followed  by  fever, 
of  more  or  less  severity;  the  animal  stands  still  and  dull,  with  head 
kanging  low,  and  anxiety  expressed,  in  its  countenance.  The  pulse 
may  be  large,  perhaps  hard ;  there  is  also  a  venous  pulse.  The  hand 
against  the  chest  will  feel  the  beating  of  the  heart,  which  is  often 
irregular,  sometimes  violent,  and  in  other  instances  weak,  depending 
in  part  upon  the  quantity  of  fluid  that  has  transuded  into  the  pe«'i- 
cardial  sac.  The  legs  are  cold,  the  breathing  quickened  and  usually 
abdominal;  if  the  left  side  of  the  chest  is  pressed  on  or  stiiick,  the 
animal  evinces  pain.  There  may  be  spasms  of  the  muscles  in  the 
region  of  the  breast,  neck,  or  hind  legs.  After  a  time,  which  varies  in 
length,  swelling  may  also  appear  in  the  legs  and  under  the  chest 
and  brisket. 

In  those  animals  in  which  the  heart  sounds  may  be  heard  somewhat 
distinctly,  the  ear  applied  against  the  chest  will  detect  a  to-and-fro 
friction  sound,  corresponding  to  the  beats  of  the  heart.  This  sound 
is  produced  by  the  rubbing  of  the  internal  surface  of  the  heart  bag 


78  DISEASES  OF   CATTLE. 

against  the  external  surface  of  the  heart.  During  the  first  stages  of 
the  inflammation  these  surfaces  are  dry,  and  the  rubbing  of  one 
against  the  other  during  the  contraction  and  relaxation  of  the  heart 
produces  this  sound.  The  dry  stage  is  followed  by  the  exudation  of 
fluid  into  the  heart  sac,  and  the  friction  is  not  heard  until  the  fluid 
is  absorbed  sufficiently  to  allow  the  surfaces  to  come  in  contact  again. 
But  during  the  time  the  friction  sound  is  lost  a  sound  which  has  been 
called  a  "  churning  noise  "  may  take  its  place. 

The  friction  sound  of  pericarditis  can  not  be  mistaken  for  the  fric- 
tion sound  of  pleurisy  if  the  examination  is  a  careful  one,  because 
in  the  heart  affection  the  sound  is  made  in  connection  with  the  heart 
beats,  while  in  the  pleuritic  affection  the  sound  is  synchronous  with 
each  respiration  or  breath  of  air  taken  in  and  expelled  from  the 
lungs. 

Treatment. — ^^lien  pericarditis  is  complicated  with  rheumatism  or 
other  diseases  the  latter  must  be  treated  as  directed  in  the  description 
of  them.  The  animal  must  be  kept  in  a  quiet,  comfortable  place, 
where  it  will  be  free  from  excitement.  Warm  clothing  should  be 
applied  to  the  body,  and  the  legs  should  be  hand-rubbed  until  the  cir- 
culation in  them  is  reestablished,  and  then  they  should  be  snugly 
bandaged.  The  food  should  be  nutritive  and  in  moderate  quantity. 
Bleeding  should  not  be  performed  unless  the  case  is  in  the  hands  of 
an  expert. 

At  the  beginning  give  as  a  purgative  Epsom  salt — 1  pound  to  an 
average-sized  cow — dissolved  in  about  a  quart  of  warm  water  and 
administered  as  a  drench.  Wlien  there  is  much  pain  2  ounces  of 
laudanum,  diluted  with  a  pint  of  water,  may  be  given  every  three 
hours  until  the  animal  is  better.  Do  not  give  the  laudanum  unless 
demanded  by  the  severity  of  the  pain,  as  it  tends  to  constipate.  Give 
one-half  ounce  of  nitrate  of  potassium  (saltpeter) ,  dissolved  in  drink- 
ing water,  four  or  five  times  a  day.  After  the  attack  has  abated 
mustard  mixed  with  water  may  be  rubbed  well  over  the  left  side 
of  the  chest  to  stimulate  the  absorption  of  the  fluid  within  the 
pericardium.  The  other  medicines  may  be  discontinued  and  the 
following  administered:  Sulphate  of  iron,  2  ounces;  powdered  gen- 
tian, 6  oimces;  mix  and  make  8  powders.  Give  one  powder  every 
day  at  noon,  mixed  with  feed,  if  the  animal  will  eat  it,  or  shaken  up 
with  water  in  a  bottle  as  a  drench.  Also  the  following:  lodid  of 
potassium,  2  ounces;  nitrate  of  potassium,  8  ounces;  mix  and  make 
16  powders.  Give  one  in  drinking  water  or  in  drench  every  morning 
and  evening.  The  last  two  prescriptions  may  be  continued  for  sev- 
eral weeks  if  necessary. 

If  at  any  time  during  the  attack  much  weakness  is  manifested, 
give  the  following  drench  every  three  hours :  Spirits  of  nitrous  ether, 


DISEASES  OF  THE  HEABT,  BLOOD  VESSELS,  AND  LYMPHATICS.       79 

3  ounces ;  rectified  spirits,  4  ounces ;  water,  1  pint ;  mix  and  give  as  a 
drench. 

In  extreme  cases  tapping  the  pericardium  with  a  trocar  and  can- 
nula to  draw  off  the  fluid  is  resorted  to,  but  the  operation  requires 
exact  anatomical  knowledge. 

After  death  from  pericarditis  there  is  always  more  or  less  fluid 
found  in  the  pericardium ;  the  surfaces  are  rough  and  covered  with  a 
yellow-colored  exudate.  There  are  also  in  many  cases  adhesions  to 
a  greater  or  less  extent  between  the  heart  and  pericardium. 

MYOCARDITIS. 

Inflammation  of  the  muscular  structure  of  the  heart  occurs  in 
limited,  circumscribed  areas,  as  evidenced  by  post-mortem  examina- 
tion, and  it  is  probably  always  somewhat  involved  in  connection  with 
pericarditis  and  endocarditis.  It  may  readily  be  inferred  that  if  the 
whole  organ  were  inflamed  death  would  ensue  immediately.  Usually 
myocarditis  results  from  the  preexistence  of  blood  poisoning  or  of 
some  infectious  febrile  disease. 

SymiHoms. — The  chief  symptoms  are  those  of  heart  weakness. 
The  heart  beat  is  fast,  weak,  and  often  irregular.  Respiration  is 
difficult  and  rapid.  There  is  great  general  weakness  and  depression. 
Death  comes  suddenly. 

Treatment. — Treatment  consists  in  supporting  the  animal  by  the 
use  of  stimulants,  such  as  alcohol,  ammonia,  coffee,  digitalis,  cam- 
phor, etc.  Complete  quiet  must  be  provided,  and  the  general  care 
should  be  as  in  pericarditis. 

ENDOCARDITIS. 

When  the  membrane  which  lines  the  cavities  of  the  heart — ^the 
endocardium — suffers  inflammation,  the  disease  is  called  endocarditis. 
The  cause  is  another  disease,  during  which  substances  that  irritate 
the  lining  of  the  heart  are  produced  and  admitted  into  the  circula- 
tion. These  substances  are  usually  living  organisms,  or  it  is  possible 
that  in  some  cases  they  are  chemical  irritants.  Endocarditis  occurs 
as  a  complication  of  or  sequel  to  pneumonia,  blood  poisoning,  inflam- 
mation of  the  womb,  rheumatism,  or  severe  wounds  or  abscesses. 
The  symptoms  are  much  the  same  as  those  of  pericarditis,  and  it  is 
difficult  to  discriminate  between  the  two  affections.  There  is  a 
jugular  pulse,  the  legs  may  become  dropsical,  and  there  is  a  tendency 
to  faint  if  the  head  is  elevated  suddenly.  The  bellowslike  sound 
is  more  distinct  than  it  is  in  pericarditis.  It  is  the  most  fatal  of 
heart  diseases,  because  of  the  liability  of  the  formation  of  clots, 
which  may  adhere  to  the  valves,  change  in  the  structure  of  the  valves, 
and  often  a  complication  with  an  abnormal  condition  of  the  blood. 


80  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

Clots  may  be  formed  in  the  heart,  and,  being  carried  to  other  parts, 
prove  fatal  by  interrupting  the  circulation  in  some  vital  organ. 

Treatment  similar  to  that  advised  for  myocarditis  may  be  followed 
in  this  disease. 

VALVES  OF  THE  HEART. 

The  valves  are  subject  to  abnormal  growths  and  structural  changes 
in  chronic  endocarditis  or  as  a  result  of  acute  endocarditis.  Some- 
times valves  are  torn  by  sudden,  extreme  muscular  effort  or  a  con- 
genital abnormality.  Cases  are  also  reported  in  which  they  have 
been  found  ruptured. 

Symptoms. — The  general  symptoms  are  those  of  heart  weakness, 
accompanied  with  edema  and  congestion  of  the  lungs. 

Treatment. — Relief  is  sometimes  afforded,  but  usually  only  tempo- 
rarily'^, by  the  use  of  stimulants,  especially  digitalis. 

RUPTURE  OF  THE  HEART. 

Sudden  effort,  blows,  or  disease  may  lead  to  rupture  of  the  heart  of 
the  ox.  The  first  cause  does  not  operate  so  often  in  cattle  as  in  horses. 
Tuberculosis  or  ulceration  from  other  causes,  such  as  a  foreign  body, 
is  the  most  common  source  of  this  accident.  Rupture  is  shown  by 
sudden  fainting,  followed  very  shortly  by  death. 

HYPERTROPHY  AND  DILATATION  OF  THE  HEART. 

This  is  an  enlargement  of  the  heart,  and  may  consist  of  the  thick- 
ening of  the  walls  alone,  or  at  the  same  time  the  cavities  may  be 
either  enlarged  or  diminished.  Dilatation  of  the  cavities  has  been 
noticed  as  existing  independently  of  thickened  walls.  In  hyper- 
trophy the  sounds  of  the  heart  are  loud  and  pronounced,  may  be 
heard  on  both  sides  of  the  chest  distinctly,  and  palpitation  occurs 
to  a  greater  or  less  extent.  Fortunately  both  conditions  are  very  rare 
in  cattle. 

ATROPHY. 

Atrophy  is  the  technical  term  for  wasting  of  the  muscular  tissue. 
Atrophy  of  the  heart  is  very  rare  among  cattle,  and  is  usually  a 
result  of  other  diseases. 

FATTY  DEGENERATION  OF  THE  HEART. 

This  condition  of  the  heart  is  met  with  in  some  very  fat  cattle, 
but  it  must  be  understood  that  the  accumulation  of  fat  around  the 
heart  is  not  referred  to  by  this  designation.  In  fatty  degenera- 
tion the  elements  of  the  muscular  tissue  are  replaced  by  fatty  or  oily 
granules.  The  muscle  becomes  weak,  the  heart  contractions  are 
insufficient,  and  heart  weakness  is  shown  by  general  weakness,  short- 
ness of  breath,  and  weak,  rapid  pulse. 


DISEASES  OF  THE  HEART,  BLOOD  VESSELS,  AXD  LYMPHATICS.        81 

CYANOSIS. 

Owing  to  the  most  prominent  symptoms,  c3'anosis  is  also  called 
"  blue  disease,"  and  is  seen  occasionally  in  new-born  calves.  It  is 
recognized  by  the  blue  color  of  the  mucous  membrane  (easily  seen  by 
looking  Ayithin  the  mouth  and  nostrils),  the  coldness  of  the  surface 
of  the  body,  and  rapid,  labored  breathing.  It  is  caused  by  non- 
closure of  the  foramen  ovale,  connecting  the  right  with  the  left  side 
of  the  heart,  and  the  consequent  mixing  of  the  venous  with  the  arte- 
rial blood.     Calves  so  affected  live  but  a  short  time. 

MISPLACEMENT  OF  THE  HEART. 

Cases  are  recorded  in  which  the  heart  has  been  found  out  of  its 
natural  position,  sometimes  even  outside  the  chest.  This  is  a  con- 
genital condition  for  which  there  is  no  remedy.  A  heifer  calf  with 
the  heart  entirel}^  outside  the  thoracic  cavity  and  beneath  the  skin 
in  the  lower  part  of  the  neck  was  kept  for  two  years  at  tlie  veteri- 
nary' hospital  of  the  University  of  Pennsylvania,  during  which  time 
it  grcAv  to  be  a  well-developed  cow. 

WOUNDS  OF  ARTERIES  AND  VEINS. 

When  a  blood  vessel  is  opened  a  glance  will  tell  Avhether  it  is  an 
artery  or  a  vein  by  simply  remembering  that  bright-red  blood  comes 
from  arteries  and  dark-red  from  veins.  When  a  Aein  or  a  very  small 
artery  is  severed  the  blood  flows  from  the  vessel  in  a  continuous  and 
even  stream,  but  when  one  of  the  larger  artenes  is  severed  the  blood 
comes  in  intermitting  jets  or  spurts  corresponding  to  the  beats  of 
the  heart.  It  is  well  to  call  attention  to  the  fact  that  the  dark-red 
blood  which  flows  or  oozes  from  a  wound  soon  becomes  bright  red, 
because  it  gives  up  its  carbonic-acid  gas  to  the  air,  and  absorbs 
oxygen  gas  from  the  air,  which  is  exactly  the  change  it  undergoes 
in  the  capillaries  of  the  lungs. 

The  general  treatment  of  w  ounds  will  be  found  in  another  section ; 
here  it  is  necessary  only  to  refer  briefly  to  some  of  the  most  practical 
methods  used  to  arrest  hemorrhages,  as  instances  occur  in  which  an 
animal  maj'  lose  much  strength  from  the  loss  of  blood,  or  even  bleed 
to  death  unless  action  is  prompt. 

BLEEDING  (HE3IORRHAGE). 

The  severity'  of  a  hemorrhage  depends  upon  the  size  of  the  vessel 
fi^om  which  the  blood  escapes,  though  it  may  be  stated  that  it  is  more 
serious  when  arteries  are  severed.  If  the  wound  in  an  artery  is  in  the 
direction  of  its  lengih,  the  blood  escapes  more  freely  than  if  the  vessel 
is  completely  severed,  because  in  the  latter  instance  the  severed  ends 
retract,  curl  in,  and  may  aid  very  much  in  arresting  the  flow.  When 
33071°— 16 6 


82  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

the  blood  merely  oozes  from  the  Avoiind,  and  e\'en  when  it  floAvs  in  a 
small  stream,  the  forming  of  the  clot  arrests  the  hemorrhage  in  a 
comparatLvel.y  short  time. 

Slight  hemorrhages  may  be  checked  by  the  continuous  application 
of  cold  water,  ice,  or  snow,  to  the  wound,  as  cold  causes  contraction  of 
the  small  vessels.  Water  from  a  hose  may  be  throw^n  on  a  wound,  or 
dashed  on  it  from  the  hand  or  a  cup,  or  folds  of  cotton  cloths  may  be 
held  on  it  and  kept  wet.  Ice  or  snow  may  be  held  against  the  wound, 
or  they  may  be  put  into  a  bag  and  conveniently  secured  in  position. 

Hot  water  of  an  average  temperature  of  115°  to  120°  F.  injected 
into  the  vagina  or  womb  is  often  efficient  in  arresting  hemorrhages 
from  those  organs.  Tow,  raw  cotton,  lint,  or  sponges  may  be  forced 
into  a  wound  and  held  or  bound  there  with  bandages.  This  is  an 
excellent  method  of  checking  the  flow  of  blood  until  the  arrival  of 
an  expert.  If  the  flow  persists,  these  articles  may  be  saturated  with 
tincture  of  iron,  but  it  is  not  advisable  to  use  it  unless  necessary,  as 
it  is  a  caustic  and  retards  healing  by  causing  a  slough.  In  cases  of 
necessity,  the  articles  may  be  saturated  with  vinegar,  or  tannic  acid 
or  alum  dissolved  in  water  may  be  used  instead.  Whatever  article  is 
used  should  be  left  in  the  wound  sufficiently  long  to  make  sure  that 
its  removal  will  not  be  followed  by  a  renewal  of  the  hemorrhage. 
Sometimes  it  must  remain  there  one  or  two  days. 

An  iron  heated  white  and  then  pressed  on  the  bleeding  vessel  for 
three  or  four  seconds  is  occasionally  used.  It  should  not  be  applied 
longer,  or  else  the  charred  tissue  will  come  aAvay  with  the  iron  and 
thus  defeat  the  purpose  of  its  application. 

Compression  may  be  applied  in  different  ways,  but  only  the  most 
convenient  will  be  mentioned.  To  many  wounds  bandages  may  easily 
be  applied.  The  bandages  may  be  made  of  linen,  muslin,  etc.,  suffi- 
ciently wdde  and  long,  according  to  the  nature  of  the  wound  and  the 
region  to  be  bandaged.  Bed  sheets  torn  in  strips  the  full  length  make 
excellent  bandages  for  this  purpose.  Cotton  batting,  tow,  or  a  piece 
of  sponge  may  be  placed  on  the  wound  and  firmly  bound  there  with 
the  bandages. 

Many  cases  require  ligating,  which  is  almost  entirely  confined  to 
arteries.  A  ligature  is  a  piece  of  thread  or  string  tied  around  the 
vessel.  Veins  are  not  ligated  unless  very  large  (and  even  then  only 
when  other  means  are  not  available)  on  account  of  the  danger  of 
causing  phlebitis,  or  inflammation  of  a  xe'm.  The  ligature  is  tied 
around  the  end  of  the  artery,  but  in  some  instances  this  is  difficult  and 
it  is  necessary  to  include  some  of  the  adjacent  tissue,  although  care 
should  be  taken  not  to  include  a  nerve.  To  apply  a  ligature,  it  is  nec- 
essary to  have  artery  forceps  (tweezers  or  small  pincers  may  suffice) 
by  which  to  draw  out  the  artery  in  order  to  tie  the  string  around  it. 
To  grasp  the  vessel  it  may  be  necessary  to  sponge  the  blood  from  the 


DISEASES  OF  THE  HEART,  BLOOD  VESSELS,  AND  LYMPHATICS.       83 

wound  SO  that  the  end  Avill  be  exposed.  In  case  the  end  of  the  bleed- 
ing artery  has  retracted,  a  sharp-pointed  hook,  called  a  tenaculum, 
is  used  to  draw  it  out  far  enough  to  tie.  The  ligature  should  be 
drawn  tightly,  so  that  the  middle  and  internal  coats  will  be  cut 
through. 

Another  method  of  checking  hemorrhage  is  called  torsion.  It  con- 
sists in  catching  the  end  of  the  bleeding  vessel,  drawing  it  out  a  little, 
and  then  twisting  it  around  a  few  times  with  the  forceps,  which  lacer- 
ates the  internal  coats  so  that  a  check  is  effected.  This  is  very  effec- 
tual in  small  vessels,  and  is  to  be  preferred  to  ligatures,  because  it 
leaves  no  foreign  body  in  the  wound.  A  needle  or  pin  may  be  stuck 
through  tlie  edges  of  the  wound  and  a  string  passed  around  between 
the  free  ends  and  the  skin  (PL  XXVII,  fig,  10).  or  it  may  be  passed 
around  in  the  form  of  a  figure  8,  as  is  often  done  in  the  operation  of 
bleeding  from  the  jugular  vein.  ; 

ANEURISM. 

A  circumscribed  dilation  of  an  artery,  constituting  a  tumor  which 
pulsates  synchronously  with  the  beats  of  the  heart,  is  called  aneurism. 
It  is  caused  by  disease  and  rupture  of  one  or  two  of  the  arterial  coats. 
Tlie  true  aneurism  communicates  with  the  interior  of  the  artery  and 
contains  coagulated  blood.  It  is  so  deeply  seated  in  cattle  that  treat- 
ment is  out  of  the  question.  Such  abnormalities  are  ascribable  to 
severe  exertion,  to  old  age,  to  fatty  or  calcareous  degeneration,  or  to 
parasites  in  the  blood  vessels.  Death  is  sudden  when  caused  by  the 
rupture  of  an  aneurism  of  a  large  artery,  owing  to  internal  hemor- 
rhage. Sometimes  spontaneous  recovery  occurs.  As  a  rule  no  symp- 
toms are  caused  in  cattle  by  the  presence  of  deep-seated  aneurisms, 
and  their  presence  is  not  known  until  after  death. 

A  false  aneurism  results  from  blood  escaping  from  a  wounded 
artery  into  the  adjacent  tissue,  where  it  clots,  and  the  wound,  remain- 
ing open  in  the  artery,  causes  pulsation  in  the  tmnor. 

THROMBOSIS  (OBSTRUCTION)   OF  THE  ARTERIES. 

Arteries  become  obstructed  as  a  result  of  wounds  and  other  injuries 
to  them,  as  those  caused  by  the  formation  of  an  abscess  or  the  ex- 
tension of  inflammation  from  surrounding  structures  to  the  coats 
of  an  artery.  Arteries  are  also  obstructed  by  the  breaking  ojff  of 
particles  of  a  plug  or  clot,  partly  obstructing  the  aorta  or  other  large 
arterj^  These  small  pieces  (emboli)  are  floated  to  an  artery  that  is 
too  small  to  permit  them  to  pass  and  are  there  securely  held,  pro- 
ducing obstruction.  These  obstructions  are  shown  by  loss  of  power 
in  the  muscles  supplied  by  the  obstnicted  artery  and  by  excitation 
of  the  heart  and  by  respiration  after  exercise.  The  loss  of  power  may 
not  come  into  evidence  until  after  exercise. 


84  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

Symptoms. — "While  standing  still  or  Avlien  -walking  slo^Yly  the  .ani- 
mal ma}"  appear  to  be  normal,  but  aft^r  more  acti^  e  exercise  a  group 
of  muscles,  a  leg,  or  both  hind  legs,  may  be  handled  with  difficulty, 
causing  lameness,  and  later  there  is  practically  a  local  paralysis. 
These  symptoms  disappear  with  rest.  In  some  cases  the  collateral 
circulation  develops  in  time,  so  that  the  parts  receive  sufficient  lalood 
and  the  symptoms  disai^pear. 

INFLAMMATION  OF  VEINS   (PHLEBITIS). 

When  bleeding  is  performed  Avithout  proper  care  or  with  an  un- 
clean lancet,  inflammation  of  the  vein  may  result,  or  it  may  be 
caused  by  the  animal  rubbing  the  wound  against  some  object.  When 
inflammation  follows  the  operation,  the  coats  of  the  vein  become  so 
much  enlarged  that  the  vessel  maj^  be  felt  hard  and  knotted  beneath 
the  skin,  and  pressure  produces  pain.  A  thin,  watery  discharge, 
tinged  with  blood,  issues  from  the  wound.  When  the  pin  is  taken 
out  it  is  found  that  the  wound  has  not  healed.  The  blood  becomes 
coagulated  in  the  vessel.  In  inflammation  of  the  jugular  the  coagu- 
lation extends  from  the  wound  upward  to  the  first  large  branch. 
Abscesses  may  form  along  the  course  of  the  vein.  The  inflammation 
is  followed  by  obliteration  of  that  part  in  which  coagulation  exists. 
This  is  of  small  import,  as  cattle  have  an  accessory  jugular  vein 
which  gradually  enlarges  and  accommodates  itself  to  the  increased 
quantity  of  blood  it  must  carry. 

Treatment. — The  treatment  for  inflammation  of  the  vein  is  to  clip 
the  hair  from  along  the  course  of  the  affected  vessel  and  apply  a 
blister,  the  cerate  of  cantharides.  Abscesses  should  be  opened  as 
soon  as  they  form,  because  there  is  a  possibility  of  the  pus  getting 
into  the  circulation. 

In  the  operation  of  bleeding  the  instruments  should  be  clean  and 
free  from  rust.  If  the  skin  is  not  sufficiently  opened,  or  Avhen  closing 
the  wound  the  skin  is  drawn  out  too  much,  blood  may  accumulate  in 
the  tissue,  and  if  it  does  it  should  be  removed  by  pressing  absorbent 
cotton  or  a  sponge  on  the  part.  Care  should  also  be  used  in  opening 
the  vein,  so  that  the  instrument  may  not  pass  entirely  through  both 
sides  of  the  vein  and  open  the  artery  beneath  it. 

DISEASES  OF  THE  HEART,  BLOOD  VESSELS,  AND  LYMPHATICS. 

DESCRIFI'ION    OF    PLATE. 

Plate  VII: 

Diagram  illustrating  the  circiilalioii  of  the  blood.  The  arrows  indicate  the 
direction  in  which  the  blood  flows.  The  valves  of  the  heart,  eittiated 
between  the  right  auricle  and  ventricle,  and  left  auricle  and  ventricle,  and 
between  the  ventricles  and  large  arteries,  are  represented  by  curved  lines. 
These  valves  are  intended  to  prevent  the  flow  of  blood  in  a  direction  con- 
trary to  that  indicated  by  the  arrows. 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  VII. 


NONCONTAGIOUS  DISEASES  OF  THE  ORGANS 
OF  RESPIRATION. 

By  William  Hp;rbeijt  Lowe,  D.  V.  S. 

DIAGNOSIS. 

In  the  determination  of  disease  in  the  human  being  the  physician, 
in  making  his  diagnosis,  is  aided  by  both  subjective  and  objective 
symptoms,  but  the  veterinary  physician,  m  a  very  large  majoi'ity  of 
cases,  is  obliged  to  rely  almost  solely  upon  objective  symptoms,  and 
perhaps  in  no  class  of  diseases  is  this  more  true  than  in  the  explora- 
tion of  those  under  consideration.  This  condition  of  affairs  has  a 
strong  tendency  to  develop  observation  and  discernment  in  the  veter- 
inarian, and  not  infrequently  do  we  find  that  the  successful  veteri- 
nary practitioner  is  a  very  accurate  diagnostician.  In  order  to 
make  a  differential  diagnosis,  however,  it  is  not  only  necessary  to 
know  structure  and  functions  of  the  organs  in  health,  but  to  adopt  a 
rigid  system  of  details  of  examination,  without  which  successful 
results  can  not  be  reached. 

History. — The  history  of  a  case  should  always  be  ascertained  so  far 
as  possible.  The  information  obtained  is  sometunes  unsatisfactory 
and  not  to  be  depended  upon,  but  even  when  this  is  the  case  it  is 
advisable  to  weigh  the  evidence  from  every  point  of  view. 

In  connection  with  the  history  of  every  case  it  is  ahvays  of  pri- 
mary importance  to  ascertain  the  cause  of  illness.  A  knowledge  of 
the  origin  and  development  of  a  disease  is  important,  both  in  making 
a  diagnosis  and  in  formulating  the  treatment.  Exposure  to  cold  and 
dampness  is  frequently  the  exciting  cause  of  affections  of  the  organs 
of  respiration. 

The  experienced  practitioner  is  always  sure  to  ascertain  wdiether 
the  particular  animal  he  is  called  on  to  attend  is  the  only  one  in  the 
stable  or  on  the  premises  that  is  similarly  affected.  If  several  ani- 
mals are  similarly  affected,  the  disease  may  have  a  common  cause, 
which  may  or  ma}'  not  be  of  an  infectious  nature. 

Another  thing  that  the  experienced  practitioner  ascertains  is  what 
previous  treatment,  if  any,  the  animal  has  had.  Medicine  given  in 
excessive  doses  sometimes  produces  symptoms  resembling  those  of 
disease. 

The  hj^gienic  and  sanitary  conditions  must  always  be  considered 
in  connection  with  the  cause  as  well  as  the  treatment  of  disease. 


86  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

Much  of  the  disease  which  occurs  in  large  dairies  and  elsewhere 
could  be  prevented  if  owners  and  those  in  charge  of  animals  had 
proper  regard  for  the  fundamental  laws  of  animal  hj'giene  and 
modern  sanitation.  Disregard  for  these  laws  is  the  cause  of  most  of 
the  diseases  under  consideration  in  this  chapter. 

Attitude  and  general  condition. — The  feeling  of  pain  in  animals 
suffering  from  serious  affections  of  the  organs  of  respiration  is  ex- 
pressed to  the  close  observer  in  no  uncertain  language — by  their 
flinching  when  the  painful  part  is  touched;  by  the  care  with  which 
they  move  or  lie  down;  by  walking  or  standing  to  "  favor  "  the  part; 
by  the  general  attitude  and  expression  of  the  ej^e ;  bj'  the  distress  and 
suffering  apparent  in  the  face;  and  by  other  evidences. 

The  general  physical  condition  and  attitude  of  the  sick  animal  tell 
the  careful  observer  much  that  aids  him  in  making  a  diagnosis  and 
prognosis.  Cows  suffering  from  affections  of  the  organs  of  respira- 
tion usually  assume  a  position  or  attitude  that  is  characteristic,  well 
known  to  experienced  stockmen,  as  well  as  to  veterinarians.  When 
an  animal  has  a  fever  or  is  suffering  from  an  inflammation,  the  skin 
is  one  of  the  first  parts  to  undergo  a  change  that  is  apparent  to  the 
average  observer,  for  it  soon  loses  its  elasticity  and  tone,  and  the  hair 
becomes  dry  and  staring. 

From  the  general  condition  or  state  of  nutrition  one  is  able  to 
judge  the  effect  that  the  disease  has  already  had  upon  the  animal  and 
to  estimate  the  strength  remaining  available  for  its  restoration  to 
health;  from  the  degree  of  emaciation  one  can  approximate  the 
length  of  time  the  animal  has  been  ill.  The  age  and  breed  of  the 
animal,  as  well  as  its  constitution  and  temperament,  are  among  the 
things  that  have  to  be  taken  into  account  in  making  a  diagnosis  and 
in  overcoming  the  disease. 

The  mucous  merribrane. — The  mucous  membrane  should  in  all  cases 
be  examined.  It  can  be  readily  seen  by  everting  the  eyelids  or  by 
an  inspection  of  the  lining  membrane  of  the  nostrils. 

Paleness  of  the  mucous  membrane  indicates  weak  circulation  or 
poor  blood  and  may  result  from  disease,  hemorrhage,  or  from  in- 
appropriate feed. 

In  healthy  animals  increased  redness  of  the  mucous  membrane 
occurs  from  pain,  excitement,  or  severe  exertion,  and  in  such  in- 
stances is  always  transitory.  In  certain  pathological  conditions,  such 
as  fevers  and  inflammation,  this  condition  of  the  mucous  membrane 
Avill  also  be  found.  The  increased  redness  of  the  mucous  membrane 
lasts  during  the  duration  of  the  fever  or  inflanmiation. 

A  bluish  or  blue  mucous  membrane  indicates  that  the  blood  is 
imperfectly  oxidized  and  contains  an  excess  of  carbon  dioxid,  and 
is  seen  in  serious  diseases  of  the  respiratory  tract,  such  as  pneumonia, 
and  in  heart  failure. 


NONCONTAGIOUS  DISEASES   OF    RESPIRATOR  1'   ORGANS.  87 

The  secretions. — The  secretions  may  be  diminished,  increased,  or 
perverted.  In  the  early  stage  of  an  inflammation  of  a  secretory  or- 
gan its  secretion  is  diminished.  In  the  early  stage  of  pleurisy  the 
serous  membrane  is  dry,  and  as  the  disease  advances  the  membrane 
becomes  unnatural!}^  moist.  The  products  of  secretion  are  sometimes 
greatly  changed  in  character  from  the  secretion  in  health,  becoming 
excessively  irritant  and  yielding  evidence  of  chemical  and  other 
alterations  in  the  character  of  the  secretion. 

Cough. — Cough  depends  upon  a  reflex  nervous  action  and  may  be 
primary  when  the  irritation  exists  in  the  lungs  or  air  passages,  or 
secondary  when  caused  by  irritation  of  the  stomach,  intestines,  or 
other  parts  having  nervous  communications  with  the  respiratory  ap- 
paratus. A  cough  is  said  to  be  dry,  moist,  harsh,  hollow,  difficult, 
paroxysmal,  suppressed,  sympathetic,  etc.,  according  to  its  character. 
It  is  a  very  important  symptom,  often  being  diagnostic  in  diseases  of 
the  respiratory  organs,  but  this  is  a  subject,  however,  v.hich  can  be 
more  satisfactorily  treated  in  connection  with  the  special  diseases  of 
the  organs  in  question. 

Respiration. — In  making  an  examination  of  an  animal  observe  the 
depth,  frequency,  quickness,  facility,  and  the  nature  of  th^  respira- 
tory movements.  They  may  be  quick  or  slow,  frequent  or  infre- 
quent, deep  or  imperfect,  labored,  unequal,  irregular,  etc.,  each  of 
which  has  its  significance  to  the  experienced  veterinarian. 

Sleep,  rumination,  pregnancy  in  cows,  etc.,  modify  the  respiratory 
movements  even  in  health.  Respiration  consists  of  two  acts — inspira- 
tion and  expiration.  The  function  of  respiration  is  to  take  in  oxygen 
from  the  atmospheric  air.  which  is  essential  for  the  maintenance  of 
life,  and  to  exhale  the  deleterious  gas  known  as  "  carbon  dioxid." 

The  frequency  of  the  respiratory  movements  is  determined  by 
observing  the  motions  of  the  nostrils  or  of  the  flanks.  The  normal 
rate  of  respiration  for  a  healthy  animal  of  the  bovine  species  is 
from  15  to  18  times  a  minute.  The  extent  of  the  respiratory  sys- 
tem renders  it  liable  to  become  affected  by  contiguity  to  many  parts 
and  its  nervous  connections  are  very  important. 

Eapid,  irregular,  or  difficult  breathing  is  known  as  dyspnea,  and 
in  all  such  cases  the  animal  has  difficulty  in  obtaining  ps  much  oxygen 
as  it  requires.  Among  the  conditions  that  give  rise  to  dyspnea  may 
be  mentioned  restricted  area  of  active  lung  tissue,  owing  to  the  fill- 
ing of  portions  of  the  lungs  with  inflammatory  exudate,  as  in  pneu- 
monia ;  painful  movements  of  the  chest,  as  in  rheumatism  or  pleurisy ; 
fluid  in  the  chest  cavity,  as  in  hydrothorax;  adhesions  between  the 
lungs  and  chest  walls;  compression  of  the  lungs  or  loss  of  elasticity; 
excess  of  carbon  dioxid  in  the  blood;  weakness  of  the  respiratory 
passages;  tumors  of  the  nose  and  paralj^sis  of  the  throat;  swellings 


88  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

of  the  throat;  foreign  bodies  and  constriction  of  the  air  passages 
leading  to  the  lungs;  fevers,  etc. 

As  already  alluded  to,  it  is  only  the  careful  and  constant  examina- 
tion of  animals  in  health  that  Avill  enable  one  properly  to  appreciate 
abnormal  conditions.  One  must  become  familiar  with  the  frequency 
and  character  of  the  pulse  and  of  the  respirations,  must  know  the 
temperature  of  the  animal  in  health,  before  changes  in  abnormal  con- 
ditions can  be  properlj^  appre'ciated. 

Terrbperature. — The  temperature  should  be  taken  in  all  cases  of 
sickness.  Experienced  practitioners  can  approximate  the  patient's 
temperature  with  remarkable  accuracy,  but  I  strongly  recommend 
the  use  of  the  self-registering  clinical  thermometer,  which  is  a  most 
valuable  instrument  in  diagnosing  diseases.  (See  PL  III,  fig.  1.) 
It  is  advisable  to  get  a  tested  instrument,  as  some  thermometers  in  the 
market  are  inaccurate  and  misleading.  The  proper  place  to  in- 
sert the  thermometer  is  in  the  rectum,  where  the  instrument  should 
be  rested  against  the  walls  of  the  cavity  for  about  three  minutes. 
The  normal  temperature  of  the  bovine  is  101°  to  102°  F.,  which 
is  higher  than  that  of  the  horse.  A  cow  breathes  faster,  her  heart 
beats  faster,  and  her  internal  temperature  is  higher  than  that  of  the 
horse.  Ordinary  physiological  influences — such  as  exercise,  diges- 
tion, etc. — give  rise  to  slight  variations  of  internal  temperature ;  but 
if  the  temperature  rises  two  or  three  degi-ees  above  the  standard 
some  diseased  condition  is  indicated. 

Pulse, — The  pulse  in  a  grown  animal  of  the  bovine  species  in  a 
state  of  good  health  beats  from  45  to  55  times  a  minute.  Exercise, 
fright,  fear,  excitement,  overfeeding,  pregnancy,  and  other  physi- 
ological conditions,  as  well  as  disease,  may  affect  the  frequency  and 
character  of  the  pulse.  It  assumes  various  characters  according  to 
its  rapidity  of  beat,  frequency  of  occurrence,  resistance  to  pressure, 
regularity,  and  perceptibilit3\  Thus  we  have  the  (juick  or  slow, 
frequent  or  infrequent,  hard  or  soft,  full  or  imperceptible,  large 
or  small  pulse,  the  character  of  each  of  which  may  be  determined 
from  its  name;  also  that  known  as  the  intermittent,  either  regular 
or  irregular.  We  may  have  a  dicrotic,  or  double  pulse ;  a  thready 
pulse,  which  is  extremely  small  and  scarcely  perceptible ;  the  venous, 
or  jugular,  pulse ;  the  '  running  down  "^ pulse,  and  so  o\\.     (See  p.  74.) 

In  cattle  the  pulse  is  conveniently  felt  over  the  submaxillary  artery 
where  it  winds  around  the  lower  jawbone,  just  at  the  lower  edge  of 
the  flat  muscle  on  the  side  of  the  cheek.  If  the  cow  is  lying  down  the 
pulse  may  bo  taken  from  the  metacarpal  artery  on  the  back  part  of 
the  fore  fetlock.  Tlie  pulsations  can  be  felt  from  any  superficial 
artery,  but  in  order  to  ascertain  the  peculiarities  it  is  necessary  to 
select  an  artery  that  may  be  pressed  against  a  bone.     There  is  a 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  VIII. 


f 


NONCONTAGIOUS   DISEASES    OF    EESPIRATORY    ORGANS.  89 

marked  difference  in  the  normal  or  physiological  pulse  of  the  horse 
and  that  of  the  cow,  that  of  the  hoi*se  being  full  and  rather  tense, 
while  in  the  cow  it  is  soft  and  rolling.  The  pulse  is  faster  in  young 
or  old  cattle  than  it  is  in  those  of  middle  age. 

Auscultation. — Auscidtation  and  percussion  are  the  chief  methods 
used  to  determine  the  various  pathological  changes  that  occur  in 
the  respiratory  organs.  Auscultation  is  the  act  of  listening,  and 
may  be  either  mediate  or  immediate.  Mediate  auscultation  is  accom- 
plished by  aid  of  an  instrument  known  as  the  stethoscope,  one  ex- 
tremity of  which  is  applied  to  the  ear  and  the  other  to  the  chest  of 
the  animal.  In  immediate  auscultation  the  ear  is  aplied  directly  to 
the  part.  Immediate  auscultation  will  answer  in  a  large  majority  of 
cases.  Ausculation  is  resorted  to  in  cardiac  and  certain  abdominal 
diseases,  but  it  is  mainly  employed  for  determining  the  condition  of 
the  lungs  and  air  passages.  Animals  can  not  give  the  various  phases 
of  respiration,  as  can  the  patients  of  the  human  practitioner.  The 
organs  themselves  are  less  accessible  than  in  man,  owing  to  the 
greater  bulk  of  tissue  surrounding  them  and  the  pectoral  position  of 
the  fore  extremities,  all  of  which  render  it  more  difficult  in  deter- 
mining pathological  conditions.     (See  PL  VIII.) 

The  air  going  in  and  out  of  the  lungs  makes  a  certain  soft,  rustling 
sound,  known  as  the  vesicular  murmur,  which  can  be  heard  distinctly 
in  a  healthy  state  of  the  animal,  especially  upon  inspiration.  Exer- 
cise accelerates  the  rate  of  respiration  and  intensifies  this  sound. 
The  vesicular  murmur  is  heard  only  where  the  lung  contains  air  and 
its  function  is  active.  The  vesicular  murmur  is  Aveakened  as  inflam- 
matory infiltration  takes  place  and.  when  the  lungs  are  compressed  by 
fluids  in  the  thoracic  cavity,  and  disappears  when  the  lung  becomes 
solidified  in  pneumonia  or  the  chest  cavity  filled  with  fluid  as  in 
hydrothorax.  The  bronchial  murmur  is  a  harsh,  blowing  sound, 
heard  in  normal  conditions  by  applying  the  ear  over  the  lower  part 
of  the  trachea,  and  may  be  heard  to  a  limited  extent  in  the  anterior 
portions  of  the  lungs  after  severe  exercise.  The  bronchial  murmur 
when  heard  over  other  portions  of  the  lungs  generally  signifies  that 
the  lung  tissue  has  become  more  or  less  solidified  or  that  fluid  has 
collected  in  the  chest  cavit5\ 

Other  sounds,  known  as  mucous  rales,  are  heard  in  the  lungs  in 
pneumonia  after  the  solidified  parts  begin  to  break  down  at  the  end 
of  the  disease  and  in  bronchitis  where  there  is  an  excess  of  secretion, 
as  well  as  in  other  conditions.  Mucous  rales  are  of  a  gargling  or 
bubbling  nature.  They  are  caused  by  air  rushing  through  tubes  con- 
taining secretions  or  pus.  They  are  said  to  be  large  or  small  as  they 
are  distinct  or  indistinct,  depending  upon  the  quantity  of  fluid  that 
is  present  and  the  size  of  the  tubes  in  which  the  sound  is  produced. 


90  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

According  to  their  character  they  are  divided  into  dry  and  moist. 
The  friction  sound  is  produced  by  the  rubbing  together  of  roughened 
surfaces  and  is  characteristic  of  pleurisy. 

Pei'cussion. — Percussion  is  that  mode  of  examination  by  which  we 
elicit  sounds  by  striking  or  tapping  over  the  part.  It  may  be  direct 
or  indirect.  If  the  middle  finger  of  the  left  hand  is  placed  firmly  on 
the  chest  and  smartly  tapped  or  struck  with  the  ends  of  the  first  three 
fingers  of  the  right  hand,  the  sound  will  be  noticed  to  be  more  reso- 
nant and  clear  than  when  the  same  procedure  is  practiced  on  a  solid 
part  of  the  body.  This  is  because  the  lungs  are  not  solid,  but  are 
alwaj^s.  in  health,  well  expanded  with  air.  In  certain  pulmonary 
diseases,  however,  as  in  pneumonia,  they  fill  up  and  become  solid, 
when  percussion  produces  a  dull  sound,  like  that  on  any  other  solid 
part  of  the  animal.  When  fluid  has  collected  in  the  lower  part  of 
the  chest  cavity  the  sound  will  also  be  dull  on  percussion.  Where 
there  is  an  excess  of  air  in  the  chest  cavity,  as  in  emphysema  or  in 
pneumothorax,  the  percussion  sound  becomes  abnormally  loud  and 
clear.  By  practice  on  healthy  animals  the  character  and  boundaries 
of  the  sounds  can  be  so  well  determined  that  any  variation  from 
them  will  be  readily  detected,  and  will  sometimes  disclose  the  pres- 
ence of  a  diseased  condition  when  nothing  else  will. 

Percussion  is  sometimes  practiced  with  the  aid  of  a  special  per- 
cussion hammer  and  an  object  known  as  a  pleximeter  to  strike  upon. 
A  percussion  hammer  is  made  of  rubber  or  has  a  rubber  tip,  so  that 
when  the  pleximeter,  which  is  placed  against  the  side  of  the  animal, 
is  struck  the  impact  will  not  be  accompanied  with  a  noise.  A  percus- 
sion hammer  and  pleximeter  may  be  purchased  from  any  veterinary 
instrument  maker. 

CATARRH   (COLD  IN  THE  HEAD). 

Nasal  catarrh  is  an  inflammation  of  the  mucous  membranes  of  the 
nostrils  and  upper  air  passages.  Simple  catarrh  is  not  a  serious  dis- 
ease in  itself,  but  if  neglected  is  liable  to  be  complicated  with  laryn- 
gitis, bronchitis,  pneumonia,  plurisy,  or  other  serious  and  sometimes 
fatal  diseases  of  the  respiratory  organs.  Catarrh  is  a  common 
disease  among  cattle.  It  is  often  caused  by  sudden  exposure  to  wet 
and  cold  after  they  have  been  accustomed  to  shelter.  It  may  arise 
from  inhalation  of  irritating  gases.  It  is  also  sometimes  produced 
by  certain  specific  atmospheric  conditions,  and  may  assume  an 
enzootic  form.  It  is  very  debilitating,  and  requires  prompt  and 
judicious  treatment. 

Symptoms. — Kedness  of  the  mucous  membranes  of  the  nose  and 
redness  and  watering  of  the  eyes  are  symptoms  of  nasal  catarrh. 
The  mucous  membrane  first  becomes  dry;  afterwards  a  watery  dis- 
charge appears,  and  later,  in  severe  cases,  the  discharge  becomes 


NONCONTAGIOUS   DISEASES   OF    RESPIRATORY    ORGANS.  91 

mucopurulent.  In  mild  cases  there  is  little  or  no  fever,  but  in  severe 
ones  it  may  run  high.  The  animal  becomes  dull,  languid,  and  is  not 
inclined  to  move  about,  and  the  appetite  may  become  impaired ;  there 
is  also  variable  temperature  of  the  horns  and  ears.  If  in  a  cow 
giving  milk  the  secretion  diminishes,  the  mucus  from  the  eyes  and 
nose  becomes  thicker  and  yellower.  Afterwards,  as  the  symptoms 
increase  in  severity,  the  discharge  becomes  mucopurulent. 

Treatiment. — The  animal  should  be  housed  in  a  well-ventilated 
place,  with  good  hygienic  surroundings.  In  cold  and  damp  w^eather 
it  should  be  kept  warm  with  blanketing,  and,  in  severe  cases,  hot, 
medicated  inhalations  given.  If  the  fever  is  high,  it  may  be  reduced 
by  giving  nitrate  of  potassium,  from  1  to  2  ounces,  in  the  drinking 
water,  three  times  daily.  Diffusible  stimulants  are  beneficial  in  most 
cases.  Too  much  importance  can  not  be  attached  to  good  nursing. 
There  is  no  necessity  to  resort  to  the  old  system  of  bleeding,  purging, 
or  the  use  of  powerful  sedatives. 

EPISTAXIS  (BLEEDING  FROM  THE  NOSE). 

Bleeding  from  the  nostrils  is  rather  rare  in  cattle.  It  may  arise 
from  any  one  of  a  variety  of  causes,  but  usually  results  from  disease 
or  injury  to  the  mucous  membranes  or  to  violent  exertions  in  cough- 
ing and  sneezing.  It  is  seldom  serious.  It  generally  occurs  in  drops 
from  one  nostril  only,  accompanied  with  sneezing,  and  without 
frothing.  Bleeding  from  the  lungs  comes  from  both  nostrils,  is 
bright  red,  frothy,  and  accompanied  with  a  cough. 

Treatment. — In  many  cases  the  bleeding  will  cease  spontaneously 
and  all  that  is  necessary  is  to  keep  the  animal  quiet  and  bathe  the 
head  and  nostrils  with  cold  water.  The  cause  of  the  bleeding  should 
be  learned  and  governed  accordingly  in  the  treatment.  In  severe  and 
exceptional  cases,  when  the  hemorrhage  is  persistent  and  long  con- 
tinued, the  animal's  head  should  be  tied  to  a  high  rack  or  beam  and 
cold  water  or  ice  applied,  or  recourse  to  styptic  injections  taken.  If 
the  hemorrhage  is  profuse  and  persistent,  either  a  drench  composed 
of  1^  drams  of  acetate  of  lead  dissolved  in  a  pint  of  water  or  1^ 
drams  of  gallic  acid  dissolved  in  a  pint  of  water  should  be  given. 

LARYNGITIS  (SORE  THROAT). 

An  inflammation  of  the  mucous  membrane  lining  the  larynx  is 
known  as  laryngitis.  It  may  be  either  a  primary  or  a  secondary 
disease,  complicated  or  uncomplicated.  In  the  majority  of  eases  it 
is  attributable  to  some  form  of  exposure,  a  sudden  change  from  warm 
to  cold  surroundings,  or  exposure  to  cold  storms.  It  may  also  result 
from  inhaling  irritating  gases  or  from  external  violence.  In  an 
acute  attack  of  laryngitis  there  is  an  elevation  of  temperature,  pain 
on  pressure  over  the  region  of  the  larynx,  violent  paroxysms  of 


92  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

coughing,  difliciilt  and  noisy  respiration.  The  nostrils  are  dihited, 
the  nose  extended,  and  the  animal  has  a  frightened  expression. 
There  is  marked  difficulty  in  swallowing. 

Treatment. — Treatment  consists  of  fomentations  and  hot  applica- 
tions over  the  throat.  Stimulating  liniments,  mustard  mixed  with 
cold  water  and  well  rubbed  in  with  a  stiff  brush,  or  other  forms  of 
counterirritation  may  be  applied  in  severe  cases.  Hot  inhalations 
should  be  frequently  resorted  to,  and  often  afford  much  relief  to  the 
suffering  animal.  In  this  disease  medicines  should  be  given  so  far  as 
possible  in  the  form  of  electuaries  (soft  solid)  on  account  of  the  diffi- 
culty of  deglutition.  Large  drafts  of  medicines  have  a  tendency  to 
produce  violent  spells  of  coughing,  and  in  this  way  retard  recovery. 
The  subjoined  formula  for  an  electuary  will  be  found  to  answer  the 
purpose  in  ordinary  cases:  Chlorate  of  potassium,  pulverized,  8 
ounces;  fluid  extract  of  belladonna,  2  ounces;  powdered  opium,  1 
ounce;  pov>dered  licorice  root,  8  ounces;  sirup,"  sufficient  quantity; 
mix.  Place  a  small  tablespoonful  of  the  mixture  frequently  on  the 
tongue  or  back  teeth.  Or  the  following  may  be  used  instead :  xMoes, 
powdered  opium,  and  gum  camphor  in  equal  parts;  mix.  Eub  an 
ounce  on  the  molar  teeth  every  four  or  five  hours.  The  bowels  should 
be  kept  open  and  the  diet  should  be  such  as  the  patient  can  easily 
swallow.  Warm,  sloppy  mashes,  boiled  oatmeal  gruel,  linseed  tea, 
and  the  like  are  the  most  suitable  substances.  If  suffocation  be 
threatened  during  the  course  of  the  disease,  tracheotomy  should  be 
performed  without  delay.  The  details  of  the  operation  are  fully 
described  under  the  head  of  "  Surgical  operations."     (See  p.  28T.) 

"\'\^en  the  disease  assumes  a  chronic  form,  strong  counterirritation 
is  indicated.  A  cantharides  blister  may  be  applied,  or  the  following 
ointment  used:  Biniodid  of  mercury  1  part,  lard  6  parts;  mix.  In 
some  cases  it  Avill  be  found  necessary  to  repeat  the  application. 

BRONCHITIS. 

Bronchitis  is  an  inflammation  of  the  mucous  membrane  of  the 
bronchial  tubes.  When  a  primary  disease,  it  is  generally  the  result 
of  what  is  commonly  knoAvn  as  "  catching  cold."  It  may  be  sec- 
ondary to  or  complicated  with  many  of  the  diseases  of  the  respiratory 
system.  It  may  also  be  caused  by  breathing  irritating  gases,  or  by 
the  introduction  of  foreign  bodies  into  the  bronchial  tubes,  which 
sometimes  results  from  injudicious  and  careless  drenching  when  the 
larynx  is  temporarily  relaxed.  It  may  be  acute  or  chronic,  and  is 
divided,  according  to  the  seat  of  the  inflammation,  into  bronchitis 
proper  when  the  large  tubes  are  affected,  or  capillary  bronchitis  when 
the  trouble  is  in  the  smaller  ones. 

Symptoms. — Loss  of  appetite,  elevation  of  temperature,  generally 
104°  or  105°  F.     The  inspiration  is  incomplete,  short,  and  painful, 


KONCONTAGIOUS  DISEASES   OF   EESPIRATORY   OEOAXS.  93 

find  the  expiration  is  prolonged.  Tlie  pulse  is  increased  in  frequency 
and  is  hard.  A  characteristic,  painful  cough  is  present,  but  it  is  par- 
oxysmal and  incomplete.  Auscultation  and  percussion  greatly  aid 
us  in  a  diagnosis.  A  normal  sound  is  given  on  percussion.  On  aus- 
cultation, in  the  early  stages,  rhonchus  rales  are  detected  if  the 
larger  tubes  are  affected,  and  sibilant  rales  if  the  smaller  ones  are 
affected.  Later  jnucous  rales  are  noted,  and  sometimes  all  sounds 
in  certain  parts  are  absent,  which  is  owing  to  the  plugging  up  of  the 
tubes.  This  plugging,  if  extensiA-e  enough,  is  sometimes  the  cause 
of  death,  or  death  may  result  from  extension  of  the  disease  to  the 
lungs  or  pleura.  <^ 

TreatTTient. — The  animal  should  be  placed  in  a  light,  well-venti- 
lated box,  and  the  bowels  kept  in  a  soft  condition  by  enemas,  etc. 
Violent  purgatives  should  not  be  used.  The  body  should  be  kept 
warm  by  blanketing.  In  the  early  stages  a  draft  composed  as  follows 
should  be  given  three  times  daily:  Extract  of  belladonna,  2  drams; 
solution  of  acetate  of  ammonium,  4  fluid  ounces ;  water,  one-half  pint. 
In  the  later  stage  of  the  disease  the  following  formula  may  be  sub- 
stituted and  given  twice  daily:  Carbonate  of  ammonium,  3  drams; 
liquor  hydrochlorate  of  strychnin,  2  fluid  drams;  spirits  of  nitrous 
ether,  1  fluid  ounce ;  water,  one-half  pint. 

In  some  cases  the  following  is  preferable  to  either  of  the  above, 
and  may  be  given  in  a  pint  of  linseed  tea  every  four  hours :  Spirits  of 
nitrous  ether,  1^  ounces;  aromatic  spirits  of  ammonia,  2  ounces; 
powdered  camphor,  2  drams.  The  feed  should  be  light  and  nutri- 
tious. 

Bronchitis  is  liable  to  become  chronic  if  not  properly  treated  in 
the  earliest  stage.     In  this  case  remedial  treatment  is  of  little  value. 

PLEURISY. 

Pleurisy  is  an*  inflammation  of  the  serous  membrane  lining  the 
chest  cavity  and  enveloping  the  lungs.  It  is  somewhat  rare  as  an 
independent  disease,  but  it  often  complicates  pneumonia;  indeed,  it 
is  often  caused  by  the  same  germ  that  causes  pneumonia — pneumo- 
coccus.  It  may  arise  from  exposure  to  cold  or  wet  or  from  external 
violence,  and  is  usually  present  in  some  degree  in  cases  in  which  the 
ribs  have  been  fractured  with  or  without  a  penetrated  womid. 

Symptoms. — In  the  first  stage  there  is  great  pain  aggravated  by 
movement,  and  the  animal  is  usually  stiff  as  though  foundered,  the 
pulse  is  quick  and  hard,  the  breathing  abdominal,  the  chest  being 
fixed  so  far  as  possible,  the  inspiration  short  and  jerky,  the  expiration 
longer.  The  pain  is  caused  by  the  friction  of  the  dry,  inflamed 
pleural  surfaces  of  the  lung  and  chest  on  eacli  other.  At  this  stage 
the  ear  detects  a  dry  friction  murmur,  resembling  somewhat  the 
sound  made  by  rubbing  two  pieces  of  sole  leather  together.     Pres- 


94:  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE, 

sure  between  the  ribs  gives  pain  and  usually  causes  the  animal  to 
flinch  and  grunt.  The  muzzle  is  hot  and  dry,  the  mouth  slimy,  and 
the  secretions  scanty.  After  a  day  or  two  the  severity  of  the  symp- 
toms is  nmch  lessened,  the  temperature,  which  during  the  first  days 
may  have  been  as  high  as  106°  F.,  falls  to  108°  or  101°,  the  pain 
decreases,  the  stifl'ness  disappears,  and  the  patient  eats  a  little.  The 
pulse  softens,  but  remains  quicker  than  normal.  Now,  day  by  day 
the  patient  loses  a  little  strength,  the  friction  sound  disappears  as 
the  exudation  moistens  the  pleural  surfaces;  percussion  now  shows 
a  horizontal  line  of  dullness,  which  day  by  day  rises  higher  in  the 
chest,  the  respiration  grows  more  frequent  and  labored,  the  counte- 
nance is  anxious  and  haggard,  the  eyeg  sink  somewhat  in  their 
sockets,  and  in  unfavorable  cases  death  occurs  during  the  second 
or  third  week,  from  either  asphyxia  or  heart  failure. 

In  pleurisy,  as  in  pneumonia,  the  elbows  are  usually  turned  out- 
ward. Care  must  be  taken  to  diffei-entiate  pleurisy  from  traumatic 
pericarditis  (which  see).  In  the  latter  condition  the  area  of  dullness 
of  the  heart  is  much  increased,  and  usually  a  splashing  sound  is 
heard  at  each  beat  of  the  heart.  Another  diagnostic  symptom  of 
value  is  that  in  traumatic  pericarditis  respiration  is  painful,  not 
difficult,  and  the  respiratory  rate  is  very  much  increased  on  move- 
ment. In  both  conditions  a  considerable  swelling  of  the  dewlap  may 
be  noticed  in  the  later  stages. 

Treatment. — Give  the  same  general  care  as  recommended  in  bron- 
chitis or  pneumonia.  In  the  early  stages  give  a  febrifuge  to  reduce 
the  fever,  as  directed  for  pneumonia.  For  relief  of  the  cough  give 
electuary  formula,  which  will  be  found  in  the  treatment  of  laryngitis. 
The  bowels  must  be  kept  relaxed  and  the  kidneys  secreting  freely. 
In  the  stage  of  effusion  the  following  should  be  given  three  times 
daily:  Digitalis  tincture,  1  ounce;  iodid  of  potassium,  30  to  60 
grains ;  mix.  Apply  strong  counterirritant  to  chest*  and  put  seton  in 
dewlap.  (See  "  Setoning,"  p.  291.)  If  collapse  of  the  lung  is  threat- 
ened, a  surgical  operation,  termed  paracentesis  thoracis,  is  sometimes 
performed ;  this  consists  in  puncturing  the  chest  cavity  and  drawing 
off  a  part  of  the  fluid.  The  instruments  used  are  a  small  trocar  and 
cannula,  which  are  introduced  between  the  eighth  and  ninth  ribs. 
The  skin  should  be  drawn  forward  so  that  the  external  woimd  may 
not  correspond  to  the  puncture  of  the  chest,  to  prevent  the  entrance 
of  air.  Only  a  portion  of  the  fluid  should  be  removed.  The  animal 
gets  immediate  relief,  but  it  is  generally  only  temporary,  as  the 
fluid  has  a  tendency  to  accumulate  again. 

PNEUMONIA. 

Pneumonia  is  an  inflamnuition  of  the  lung  substance,  and  is  divided 
into  three  forms,  viz,  croupous,  catarrhal,  and  interstitial.     These 


N'ONCOIN'TAGIOUS  DISEASES   OF   EESPIRATOKY   ORGANS.  95 

various  forms,  however,  can  be  cUtferentiated  only  by  the  expert,  and  it 
is  therefore  deemed  necessary  for  the  purpose  of  the  present  work  to 
treat  the  subject  under  the  general  head  of  pneumonia. 

The  causes  of  pneumonia  in  general  are  the  same  as  those  of  the 
various  other  inflammatory  diseases  of  the  respiratory  tract.  The 
germ  is  called  the  pneumococcus.  It  mostly  follows  congestion  of 
the  lungs,  but  may  in  rare  cases  have  a  parasitic  origin, 

Si/7nptoms. — In  the  first  stage,  that  of  congestion,  the  disease  is 
usually  ushered  in  by  a  chill,  although  this  may  not  always  be 
observed  by  the  attendant.  This  is  followed  by  an  elevation  of  tem- 
perature, usually  105°  to  106°  F.,  or  it  may  be  even  higher.  The 
lospirations  are  cjuick  and  shallow;  the  nostrils  are  dilated:  the  pulse 
is  full  and  hard.  Cough  may  or  may  not  appear  in  this  stage.  The 
r.ose  is  hot  and  dry;  the  tongue  sometimes  protrudes  and  is  slimy; 
the  coat  is  staring,  and  the  skin  dry  and  harsh.  The  urine  is  usually 
diminished  in  quantity,  high  colored,  and  the  bowels  constipated. 
Tlie  animal  stands  with  the  forelegs  wide  apart  to  facilitate  respira- 
tion. On  auscultation  crepitation  will  be  observed  over  the  portion 
of  the  lung  affected.  The  sounds  eticted  on  percussion  are  practi- 
cally normal  in  this  stage. 

In  the  second  stage  the  temperature  generally  drops  one  or  two 
degrees,  and  respiration  is  performed  with  much  difficulty.  The 
cough  is  frequent  and  painful.  The  animal  still  stands  with  the 
forelegs  wide  apart  and  the  elbows  turned  outward.  If  it  assumes 
the  recuml)ent  position  it  rests  on  the  sternum.  All  secretions  are 
more  or  less  suspended,  particularly  the  milk  in  cows.  The  animal 
has  a  haggard  appearance,  and  the  pulse  becomes  small  and  wiry  at 
this  period.  The  extremities  are  hot  and  cold  alternately;  the  crepi- 
tation which  was  present  in  the  first  stage  is  now  absent,  and  no 
sound  on  auscultation  is  heard,  unless  it  is  a  slight  wheezing  or 
whistlin'g  noise.  On  percussion  dullness  over  the  diseased  lung  is 
manifested,  indicating  consolidation.  The  lung  has  now  assumed  a 
characteristic  liverlike  appearance. 

In  the  third  stage,  if  the  disease  is  to  terminate  favorably,  the 
cough  becomes  loose,  the  animal  improves,  the  appetite  returns,  and 
the  symptoms  above  detailed  rapidly  subside;  if,  on  the  other  hand, 
resolution  is  not  progressing,  the  lung  substance  is  broken  down,  is 
heavy,  and  sinks  in  water.  In  fatal  cases  the  breath  has  a  peculiar, 
fetid,  cadaverous  odor,  and  is  taken  in  short  gasps;  the  horns,  ears, 
and  extremities  become  cold  and  clammy,  and  the  pulse  is  impercep- 
tible. On  ausculation,  when  suppuration  is  taking  place  and  the 
lung  structure  is  breaking  down,  a  bubbling  or  gurgling  crepitation, 
caused  by  the  passage  of  air  through  pus,  is  heard. 

Treatment. — Good  hygienic  surroundings  and  good  nursing  are 
essential  in  connection  with  the  medical  treatment.    The  probability 


96  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

of  recovery  depends  largely  on  the  extent  of  the  lung  tissue  involved, 
as  well  as  on  the  intensity  of  the  infiammator}^  process.  In  the  early 
stage,  when  the  fever  is  high,  febrifuges  should  be  given.  If  the 
l^ulse  be  strong  and  full,  aconite  (Fleming's  tincture,  1  to  2  drams, 
every  four  or  five  hours)  may  be  given  for  a  short  time,  but  should 
be  discontinued  as  soon  as  the  fever  begins  to  abate.  Aconite  is  a 
valuable  drug  in  the  hands  of  the  intelligent  practitioner,  but  my 
experience  leads  me  to  believe  that  not  infrequentl}'  animals  are  lost 
by  its  injudicious  use,  for  in  manj'  febrile  conditions  it  is  positively 
contraindicated,  owing  to  its  action  upon  the  heart.  In  a  plethoric 
animal,  with  a  strong,  bounding  pulse,  bleeding  may  be  resorted  to 
instead  of  administering  aconite.  If  the  bowels  are  constipated, 
calomel,  1  to  3  drams,  Avhich  acts  as  a  cathartic  and  a  febrifuge,  is 
advisable.  In  the  second  stage  diffusible  stimulants  are  required, 
viz:  Spirits  of  nitrous  ether,  2  ounces;  aromatic  spirits  of  ammonia, 
1  ounce;  mix,  and  give  in  gruel  three  times  daily.  If  the  above  is 
not  at  hand,  an  alcoholic  stimulant  should  be  used.  Half  a  pint  of 
brandy  or  whisky  may  be  given  in  a  quart  of  gruel  three  times 
daily.  In  some  cases  carbonate  of  ammonia,  2  to  5  drams,  has  been 
found  beneficial.  Most  practitioners  apply  counterirritants,  such  as 
mustard  plasters,  turpentine,  and  ammonia  liniment,  or  cantharides. 

EMPHYSEMA  (HEAVES). 

Emphysema  is  a  rupture  of  the  minute  air  vescicles  of  the  lung 
substance,  and  may  be  either  interlobular  or  vesicular.  There  is 
an  extreme  interference  w^ith  respiration,  inspiration  being  short 
and  expiration  prolonged.  It  is  a  nonfebrile  condition,  in  which  the 
appetite  is  not  decreased  and  the  milk  secretion  is  kept  up.  It  may 
be  caused  by  an  attack  of  asthma  or  may  result  from  chronic  bron- 
chitis. The  disease  can  be  diagnosed  by  the  marked  interference 
-with  respiration.  The  animal,  as  a  rule,  is  emaciated,  has  a  staring 
coat,  and  is  hidebound.  If  percussion  is  resorted  to,  the  animal's 
chest  will  give  a  tympanic,  drumlike  sound.  The  normal  resonant 
sound  is  exaggerated. 

Treatuient. — The  disease  is  incurable,  and  onl}^  a  palliative  form  of 
treatment  can  be  carried  out.  The  destruction  of  the  animal  is  often 
advisable,  from  a  humane  as  well  as  from  a  financial  point  of  view. 

PULMONARY  CONGESTION. 

Cattle  that  are  overdriven  or  overworked  are  liable  to  pulmonary 
congestion  in  an  acute  form,  and  sometimes  to  pulmonary  apoplexy. 
In  such  cases  they  should  be  allowed  to  rest,  and  if  the  weather 
is  hot,  they  should  be  put  in  a  shady  place.  Give  stimulants  inter- 
nally, unlor.d  the  venous  side  of  the  heart  by  bleeding,  and  apply 
stimulating  applications  to  the  legs,  and  bandage. 


NONCONTAGIOUS   DISEASES   OF    RESPIEATORY    ORGANS.  97 

HEMOPTYSIS. 

Hemoptysis  is  a  term  used  to  signify  bleeding  from  the  lungs.  The 
trouble  may  result  from  a  previous  congestion  of  the  lungs  or  from 
a  breaking  down  of  the  lung  substance,  or  from  specific  disorders. 

Bleeding  from  the  lungs  comes  from  both  nostrils  and  from  the 
mouth.  The  blood  is  bright  red,  frothy,  and  accompanied  with  a 
cough,  the  flow  being  somewhat  profuse  and  intermingled  with  mu- 
cus. It  may  cease  of  its  own  accord.  Internally  hemostatics  are  in- 
dicated, and  locally  over  the  sides  cold  applications  have  a  tendency 
to  check  the  hemorrhage.  A  drench  of  1^  drams  of  gallic  acid  dis- 
solved in  a  pint  of  water  should  be  given. 

ABSCESS  OF  THE  LUNG. 

Abscesses  of  the  lung  sometimes  form  during  the  course  of  or  sub- 
sequent to  tuberculosis  or  other  diseases.  An  animal  affected  with 
abscess  of  the  lung  usually  has  a  protracted,  feeble  cough  and  a  gen- 
eral appearance  of  emaciation  and  anemia.  The  pulse  is  feeble  and 
the  breath  foul.  An  offensive  discharge  from  the  lungs  frequently 
occurs.  Percussion  and  auscultation  aid  in  making  a  diagnosis  in 
this  condition.  The  appetite  is  poor.  Such  animals  go  from  bad 
to  worse,  and  their  prompt  destruction  would,  as  a  rule,  be  to  the 
interest  of  the  owner. 

HYDROTHORAX. 

Hydrothorax,  or  dropsy  of  the  chest,  is  not  a  disease  in  itself, 
but  is  simply  a  condition  in  which  an  effusion  takes  place  in  the 
chest  cavity,  and  is  the  result  or  effect  of  some  disease,  mostly  pleu- 
risy. It  can  be  easily  diagnosed  by  physical  signs.  A  loss  of  the  res- 
piratory murmur  will  be  noticed  on  auscultation,  and  on  percussion 
dullness  or  flatness  on  a  line  as  high  as  the  effusion  has  taken  place. 
When  a  large  amount  of  effusion  is  present,  tapping  with  the  trocar 
and  cannula  is  generally  resorted  to.  The  proper  method  of  per- 
forming this  operation  will  be  found  under  the  head  of  "  Pleurisy." 

PNEUMOTHORAX. 

An  accumulation  of  gas  in  the  pleural  sac  is  known  as  pneumo- 
thorax. The  presence  of  air  may  result  from  either  an  injury  of  the 
lung  or  a  wound  communicating  from  the  exterior.  The  indications 
for  treatment  are  to  remove  any  foreign  body  that  may  have  pene- 
trated, to  exclude  the  further  entrance  of  the  air  into  the  cavity  by 
the  closure  of  the  external  opening,  and  to  employ  antiseptics  and 
adhesive  dressings.  The  air  already  in  the  cavity  will  in  most  cases 
be  absorbed. 

33071°— 16 7 


98  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

VERMINOUS  BRONCHITIS. 

This  is  a  disease  that  sometimes  attacks  young  cattle  when  pas- 
tured in  low-lying  meadows  near  rivers  subject  to  flood.  It  is  caused 
by  a  small  worm,  Strongijlus  7/ucTurus,  which  lodges  in  large  num- 
bers in  the  trachea  and  bronchial  tubes,  giving  rise  to  considerable 
irritation  of  the  air  passages  and  inflammation.  Sometimes  the 
strongyles  lodge  in  large  numbers  in  the  windpipe,  forming  them- 
selves into  a  ball,  and  thus  choke  the  animal  to  death. 

SymjJtoms. — It  is  liable  to  attack  a  number  of  animals  at  once,  and 
the  weakest  are  the  first  to  give  way.  The  animal  has  a  remarkably 
forcible  cough,  distressing,  and  of  a  special  hacking  and  paroxysmal 
character.  A  stringy  mucus  is  sometimes  expelled  during  the  spells 
of  coughing.  This  mucus  contains  the  Strongyliis  tnlcmrus,  which 
can  be  detected,  or  their  ova  observed,  under  a  low  power  of  the 
microscope.  The  attack  has  a  subacute  character  and  is  very  ex- 
hausting. The  parasites,  by  becoming  entwined  in  balls,  seriously 
impede  respiration,  which  is  always  remarkably  labored  in  this 
disease. 

Treatment. — The  affected  calves  should  be  placed  in  a  dr^^  stable, 
protected  from  dampness,  and  subjected  to  fumigations  of  sulphurous 
anhydrid  or  chlorin  gas.  The  liberation  of  chlorin  gas  is  brought 
about  by  the  action  of  sulphuric  acid,  either  on  a  mixture  of  chlorid 
of  sodium  and  black  oxid  of  manganese  or  on  bleaching  powder. 
Sulphurous  anhydrid  may  be  procured  by  burning  sulphur.  Some 
practitioners  prescribe  small  doses  of  spirits  of  turpentine  in  linseed 
oil.  The  system  requires  good  support,  and  the  diet  should  therefore 
be  liberal  and  nutritious.  Equal  parts  of  sulphate  of  iron,  gentian, 
and  ginger  make  an  excellent  tonic. 

Prevention. — Avoid  pastures  notorious  for  generating  verminous 
bronchitis. 

PLEURODYNIA. 

Pleurodynia  is  a  term  applied  to  rheumatism  of  the  intercostal 
muscles,  the  apparent  symptoms  being  very  similar  to  those  of 
pleuris3\  The  animal  is  stiff,  is  not  inclined  to  turn  around,  and 
the  ribs  are  kept  in  a  fixed  state  as  much  as  possible.  Pleiu'odynia 
may  be  distinguished  from  pleurisy  by  the  coexistence  of  rheuma- 
tism in  other  parts  and  by  the  comparative  absence  of  fever,  cough, 
the  friction  sound,  and  the  effusion  into  the  chest.  The  treatment  for 
this  affection  is  the  same  as  that  for  rheumatism  affecting  other 
parts. 


DISEASES  OF  THE  NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 

By  W.  H.  Hakbaugh.  V.  S. 
[Revised  by  John  R.  Mohler,  V.  M.  D.] 

THE  NERVOUS  SYSTEM. 

The  nervous  system  is  the  distinguishing  feature  of  animal  life. 
Without  it  there  can  be  no  intelligence,  no  instinct,  no  sensibilit}',  no 
perception;  in  fact,  existence  would  be  nothing  more  than  vegetable 
life. 

The  senses — touch,  taste,  sight,  hearing,  smell — all  depend  on  the 
nervous  system.  Motion  depends  on  it.  A  muscle  can  not  contract 
without  receiving  the  stimulus  from  the  nervous  system.  For  ex- 
ample, if  a  nerve  passing  from  a  nerve  center  to  a  muscle  is  severed, 
the  particular  muscle  that  is  supplied  by  the  cut  nerve  is  paralyzed. 

The  nervous  system  is  often  studied  in  two  divisions — the  cerebro- 
spinal division  and  the  sympathetic  division. 

The  cerebrospinal  division  consists  of  the  brain  and  spinal  cord, 
nerves,  and  ganglia.  The  nerves  of  this  division  convey  the  impulses 
of  motion  and  sensation  and  supply  all  parts  which  are  undei'  the 
control  of  the  will.  For  example,  the  voluntary  muscular  tissue 
includes  all  the  muscles  which  act  as  the  will  directs.  Another  ex- 
ample :  If  anything  comes  in  contact  with  any  part  of  the  skin,  the 
impression  is  immediately  perceived.  All  the  special  senses  belong 
to  this  division. 

The  sympathetic  division  consists  of  nerves  and  ganglia.  The 
muscular  tissue,  which  acts  independently  of  the  will — as,  for  exam- 
ple, the  stomach,  intestines,  womb,  blood  vessels,  ducts,  etc. — is  called 
involuntary  muscular  tissue,  and  receives  nervous  stimulus  from  the 
sj'mpathetic  division. 

The  brain,  spinal  cord,  and  the  ganglia  are  the  central  organs  of 
the  nervous  sj^stem.  The  nerves  conduct  the  nervous  influence.  The 
nerves  terminate  differently  according  to  their  function.  The  termi- 
nations are  called  end  organs.  The  terminal  end  organs  in  the  skin 
and  other  parts  endowed  with  sensation  receive  the  impressions,  which 
are  conveyed  to  the  brain,  where  they  are  appreciated.  They  are  so 
sensitive  that  the  most  gentle  zephyr  is  perceived.  They  are  so 
abundant  that  the  point  of  the  finest  needle  can  not  pierce  the  skin 
without  coming  in  contact  with  them,  and  the  sensation  of  pain  is 

99 


100  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

instantly  conveyed  to  the  brain.  The  terminal  end  organs  of  the 
nerves  that  supply  the  muscles  are  different,  as  they  give  the  impulse 
which  is  conveyed  by  the  motor  nerves  to  the  elements  which  consti- 
tute the  muscle,  and  this  impulse  is  the  excitation  which  causes  the 
muscle  to  contract.  The  terminal  end  organs  of  the  special  senses 
of  taste,  smell,  etc.,  receive  their  special  impressions,  and  their  respec- 
tive nerves  carry  the  impressions  to  the  brain. 

There  are  two  divisions  of  nerves,  the  afferent  and  efferent. 

The  afferent  nerves  are  those  which  convey  the  impression  to  the 
nerve  centers.    All  the  sensory  nerves  belong  to  this  division. 

The  efferent  nerves  are  those  which  convey  the  nervous  impulse 
outward  from  the  nerve  centers,  and  they  are  further  classified  ac- 
cording to  the  function  of  their  respective  centers.  For  example: 
Motor  fibers  carry  the  impulse  from  the  nerve  center  to  a  muscle  to 
cause  contraction.  Vasomotor  fibers  carry  the  impulse  to  the  muscu- 
lar tissue  in  the  blood  vessels,  which  regulates  their  caliber.  The 
secretory  fibers  convey  the  impulse  to  the  cells  of  the  glands  and 
excite  the  activity  of  the  gland,  and  its  particular  product  is  secreted 
or  evolved,  as,  for  instance,  milk  in  the  mammary  gland.  Inhibitory 
fibers  control  or  inhibit  the  action  of  the  organ  to  which  they  are 
distributed,  as,  for  instance,  the  heart. 

Nerve  centers  may  be  considered  as  a  collection  or  group  of  nerve 
cells.  Both  the  cerebrospinal  and  the  sympathetic  divisions  have 
nerve  centers.  The  centers  derive  their  special  names  from  their 
functions.  The  brain  is  the  great  center  of  the  nervous  system,  as  it 
is  the  center  of  intelligence  and  perception.  The  centers  of  all  the 
special  senses,  as  well  as  the  centers  of  various  functions,  are  located 
in  different  parts  of  the  brain.  Nerve  centers  also  exist  in  the  spinal 
cord  and  in  connection  with  the  sympathetic  system. 

A  nerve  is  a  cord  consisting  of  a  certain  number  of  fibers  of  nerve 
tissue,  inclosed  in  a  sheath  of  connective  tissue.  Nerves  divide  and 
subdivide,  sending  off  branches,  which  ramify  in  all  parts  of  the 
body,  and,  as  they  near  their  terminations,  they  contain  but  one  or 
two  fibers. 

The  brain  and  spinal  cord  are  contained  within  a  bony  canal, 
which  forms  a  protective  covering  for  them. 

The  spinal  cord,  or  spinal  marrow,  lodged  within  the  spinal  canal, 
or  hollow  of  the  backbone,  is  continuous  with  the  brain  anteriorly, 
and  terminates  in  a  point  in  the  sacrum  (that  part  of  the  spinal 
column  which  immediately  precedes  the  tail).  The  spinal  cord  gives 
off  branches  at  each  of  the  spaces  between  the  segments  of  the  back- 
bone. These  branches  form  nerve  trunks  which  carry  both  sensory 
and  motor  impressions  and  impulses.  The  spinal  cord  is  a  grand 
nerve  trunk  to  carry  messages  to  or  from  the  brain  and  to  and  from 
the  reflex  centers  contained  within  itself. 


DISEASES    OF    THE    NERVOUS  .SYSTEM.  101 

The  brain  is  contained  within  the  cavity  of  the  skUlI  and  is  con- 
tinuous with  the  spinal  cord;  there  is  nothing  to  mark  the  place 
where  one  leaves  off  and  the  other  begins.  The  brain  is  the  seat  of 
reason  and  intelligence.  Voluntary  effort  originates  from  the  brain. 
Coordination,  or  harmony  of  movement,  is  controlled  by  the  rear 
portion  of  the  brain,  known  as  the  cerebellum. 

The  meninges  are  the  membranes,  three  in  number,  which  envelop 
the  brain  and  spinal  cord,  and  separate  them  from  the  bones  which 
form  the  walls  of  the  cranial  cavity  and  spinal  canal. 

The  sympathetic,  also  called  the  ganglionic,  division  of  the  nervous 
system  consists  of  two  chains  of  ganglia,  reaching  from  the  head  to 
the  tail,  situated  beneath  the  spinal  column,  one  on  either  side.  The 
presence  of  the  ganglia  or  enlargements  on  the  cords  give  them  their 
chainlike  appearance. 

The  sympathetic  nerves  are  closely  connected  with  the  cerebro- 
spinal nerves,  but  are  not  under  the  control  of  the  will. 

INFLAMMATION  OF  THE  BRAIN  AND  ITS  MEMBRANES  (STAGGERS). 

Inflammation  of  the  brain  is  technically  termed  encephalitis  and 
of  its  membranes  cerebral-meningitis,  but  as  both  conditions  usually 
occur  together,  and  since  it  is  practically  impossible  to  distinguish 
one  from  the  other  by  the  symptoms  shown  by  the  diseased  animal, 
they  may  as  well  be  considered  together  here  as  varieties  of  the  same 
disease.  Staggers,  coma,  frenzy,  etc.,  are  terms  that  are  sometimes 
applied  to  this  disease  in  its  different  forms  or  stages. 

Causes. — Severe  blows  on  the  head  with  a  hard  object,  or  the  head 
coming  violently  in  contact  with  the  ground  or  other  hard  substance 
in  a  fall,  may  be  followed  by  encephalitis.  Irritation  caused  by 
tumors  in  the  brain  may  produce  inflammation.  Feed  containing 
deleterious  matters — for  example,  ergot  (see  PL  V)  and  other  fungi 
which  contain  a  narcotic  principle — is  the  most  frequent  cause  of  this 
affection,  and  hence  it  is  often  called  "  grass  staggers  "  and  "  stomach 
staggers."  Highly  nitrogenous  feeds  are  blamed  for  causing  this  dis- 
ease. Parasites,  mineral  and  narcotic  poisons,  hot  weather,  and 
severe  exertion  or  excessive  excitement  may  cause  this  condition. 
Inflammation  of  the  brain  may  occur  as  a  complication  of  some  infec- 
tious disease  or  may  follow  some  forms  of  indigestion.  In  many 
localities  certain  plants  have  the  reputation  of  causing  staggers. 

Symptoms. — The  sj^mptoms  vary  much,  but  a  careful  observer  will 
detect  a  trouble  connected  with  the  nervous  system  without  much 
uncertainty.  The  first  signs  may  be  those  of  frenzy,  but  generally 
at  the  start  the  animal  is  dull  and  sleepy,  with  little  or  no  inclination 
to  move  about;  the  head  may  be  pressed  against  the  wall  or  fence 
and  the  legs  kept  moving,  as  if  the  animal  were  endeavoring  to  walk 
through  the  obstruction;  the  body,  especially  the  hind  part,  may  be 


102  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

leaned  against  the  side' of  the  stall  or  stable,  as  if  for  support.  The 
bowels  are  constipated;  the  urine,  when  passed,  is  small  in  quantity 
and  darker  in  color  than  natural.  There  may  be  trembling  and  even 
spasms  of  muscles  in  different  parts.  In  the  dull  stage  the  animal 
may  breathe  less  frequently  than  is  natural,  and  each  breath  may  be 
accompanied  with  a  snoring-like  sound.  The  pulse  may  be  large  and 
less  frequent  than  normal.  If  suddenly  aroused  from  the  drowsy 
state,  the  animal  appears  startled  and  stares  wildly.  When  moving 
about  it  may  stagger,  the  hind  quarters  swaying  from  side  to  side. 

If  delirium  ensues,  the  cow  is  commonly  said  to  be  mad.  She  may 
bellow,  stamp  her  feet,  run  about  wildly,  grate  the  teeth,  froth  at  the 
mouth.  If  she  is  confined  in  the  stable,  she  rears  and  plunges;  the 
convulsions  are  so  violent  in  many  instances  that  it  is  really  danger- 
ous for  one  to  attempt  to  render  aid.  The  body  may  be  covered  with 
perspiration.  She  may  fall;  the  muscles  twitch  and  jerk;  often  the 
head  is  raised  and  then  dashed  against  the  ground  until  blood  issues 
from  the  nose  and  mouth ;  the  eyes  may  he  bloodshot  and  sightless ; 
the  limbs  stiff  and  outstretched,  or  they  may  be  kicked  about  reck- 
lessly ;  the  head  may  be  drawn  back  and  the  tail  drawn  up ;  the  urine 
may  be  squirted  out  in  spurts;  often  the  "  washer"  (membrane  nicti- 
tans)  is  forced  over  the  eye.  When  the  convulsions  cease  they  may 
be  followed  by  a  period  of  quiet  unconsciousness  (coma)  which  is 
more  or  less  prolonged,  when  the  animal  may  gradually  regain  con- 
sciousness, get  up  on  its  feet,  and  perhaps  quietly  partake  of  food,  if 
there  be  any  within  reach,  while  at  other  times  it  arises  with  much 
difficulty  and  staggers  blindly  about  the  stall  or  field. 

It  must  be  remembered  that  all  the  foregoing  symptoms  are  not 
always  seen  in  the  same  case.  In  those  cases  usually  designated 
"  sleepy  staggers  "  the  general  symptoms  of  drowsiness  are  presented, 
while  in  other  cases  the  symptoms  of  frenzy  cause  the  affection  to  be 
called  '■'  mad  staggers."  In  other  cases  there  are  symptoms  of  paraly- 
sis, swaying  of  the  hind  quarters,  inability  to  rise,  etc.,  and  sometimes 
these  symptoms  of  paralysis  are  the  most  striking  manifestations  and 
continue  until  death.     Acute  cases  are  accompanied  by  fever. 

It  is  well  to  remark  that  when  the  disease  follows  injuries  to  the 
head  the  symptoms  may  not  be  manifested  until  two  or  three  days 
(or  longer)   after  the  accident. 

Treatinent. — Recoveries  are  rare  in  spite  of  careful  attention.  To 
be  of  any  service  whatever  the  treatment  must  be  prompt  and  begin 
with  the  disease.  In  the  early  stage,  when  the  pulse  is  large,  most 
cases  will  admit  of  bleeding.  Eight  or  9  quarts  of  blood  should  be 
taken  from  the  jugular  vein.  This  should  be  followed  immediately 
by  a  purgative,  the  following  for  a  cow  of  average  size :  Epsom  salt, 
24  ounces;  pulverized  gamboge,  one-half  ounce;  croton  oil,  20  drops; 
warm  water,  3  quarts;  mix  all  together  and  give  at  once  as  a  drench. 


DISEASES    OF    THE    NERVOUS   SYSTEM.  103 

About  2  quarts  of  warm  water  or  warm  soapsuds  should  be  injected 
with  a  syringe  into  the  rectum  every  three  or  four  hours.  It  is  best 
to  keep  the  animal  in  a  quiet,  sheltered  jjlace,  where  it  w^ill  be  free 
from  noise  or  other  cause  of  excitement.  All  the  cold  water  the  ani- 
mal wuU  drink  should  be  allowed,  but  feed  must  be  withheld,  except 
bran  slops  occasionally  in  small  quantities,  or  grass,  if  in  season, 
which  may  be  cut  and  carried  fresh  to  the  patient. 

The  skull  must  be  examined,  and  if  sign  of  injury  is  found,  appro- 
priate surgical  treatment  should  be  given. 

During  the  convulsions  all  possible  efforts  should  be  made  to  pre- 
vent the  animal  injuring  itself.  The  head  should  be  held  dciwn  on 
the  ground  and  straw  kept  under  it.  Cold  water  may  be  continu- 
ously poured  on  the  head,  or  bags  filled  with  ice  broken  in  small 
pieces  may  be  applied  to  the  head.  Different  authors  recommend 
different  remedies  to  allay  the  convulsions,  but  for  two  reasons  it  will 
be  found  extremely  difficult  to  administer  medicines  during  the  con- 
vulsions: (1)  While  the  animal  is  unconscious  the  power  to  swallow 
is  lost,  and  therefore  the  medicine  is  more  liable  to  go  down  the  wind- 
pipe to  the  lungs  than  it  is  to  go  to  the  paunch;  (2)  the  convulsions 
are  often  so  violent  that  it  would  be  utterly  useless  to  attempt  to 
drench  the  animal ;  and  furthermore  it  must  be  borne  in  mind  that 
during  this  stage  the  functions  of  digestion  and  absorption  are  sus- 
pended, and  as  a  consequence  the  medicine  (provided  it  finds  its  way 
to  the  paunch)  is  likely  to  remain  there  unabsorbed  and  therefore 
useless. 

A  blistering  compound,  composed  of  mustard,  1  ounce;  pulverized 
cantharides,  one-half  ounce ;  hot  water,  4  ounces,  well  mixed  together, 
may  be  rubbed  in  over  the  loins,  along  the  spine,  and  back  of  the 
head  on  each  side  of  the  neck.  This  is  occasionally  attended  with 
beneficial  effect,  and  especially  so  in  those  cases  when  paralysis  is 
present. 

If  the  purgative  acts  and  the  animal  shows  signs  of  improvement 
in  the  course  of  two  or  three  days,  2  drams  of  iodid  of  potassium  may 
be  given  every  night  and  morning,  dissolved  in  a  half  bucketful  of 
drinking  water,  if  the  animal  will  drink  it,  or  it  may  be  dissolved  in  a 
half  pint  of  water  and  given  as  a  drench.  Great  care  must  be  ob- 
served in  regard  to  the  food,  which  should  be  nutritive,  but  not  coarse, 
and  at  first  in  small  quantities,  gradually  increased  as  the  patient 
improves.  After  some  progress  is  made  toward  recovery  1^  drams 
of  pulverized  nux  vomica  may  be  given  twice  a  day,  added  to  the 
iodid  of  potassium  drench.  This  should  be  administered  so  long  as  a 
staggering  gait  continues. 

In  those  rare  cases  when  recovery  takes  place  it  is  only  partial  as  a 
rule,  as  there  is  generally  a  sequel  which  remains,  such  as  partial 
paralysis.    However,  this  is  but  a  slight  drawback  in  cattle,  because 


104  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

when  it  is  seen  to  persist  the  medicine  should  be  stopped  and  the  ani- 
mal fattened  for  butchering. 

Post-mortem  examinations  discover  congestion  of  the  brain  and  its 
membranes.  In  those  cases  which  have  exhibited  much  paralysis  of 
the  hind  legs  before  death  the  cord  may  be  congested  in  the  lumbar 
region  (loins).  When  the  disease  has  been  caused  by  injury  to  the 
head,  the  congestion  and  extra vasated  blood  may  be  found  inside  of 
the  cavity  in  the  location  corresponding  to  the  place  Avhere  the  injury 
was  inflicted  externally.  In  some  cases  pus  is  also  discovered.  It 
remains  to  be  said  that  in  all  animals  that  have  died  from  this  affec- 
tion the  limgs  are  found  very  much  congested.  This  may  lead  the 
superficial  observer  to  suppose  that  the  disease  Avas  a  lung  affection, 
but  in  fact  it  is  only  a  natural  consequence  when  death  ensues  from 
brain  disease. 

APOPLEXY. 

That  form  of  congestion  of  the  brain  known  as  parturient  apo- 
plexy, or  parturient  paresis,  which  is  so  frequently  associated  with 
the  period  of  calving  is  described  in  another  part  of  this  work.  (See 
"Milk  fever,'' p.  224.) 

Cerebral  apoplexy,  not  connected  with  parturition,  is  a  rare  disease 
among  cattle.  However,  it  may  be  due  to  degeneration  and  conse- 
quent rupture  of  a  blood  vessel  in  the  brain. 

The  attack  is  sudden,  the  animal  in  most  cases  falling  as  if  it  had 
received  a  blow  on  the  head.  It  may  stagger  and  reel  some  time 
before  going  down.  After  falling,  there  are  convulsive  movements 
of  the  legs  or  the  animal  sinks  into  insensibility.  There  may  be  re- 
missions in  the  severity  of  the  symptoms,  but  the  pressure  from  the 
continued  escape  of  blood  soon  causes  death.  Best,  quiet,  friction 
to  the  legs  and  surface,  frequent  turning  of  the  animal  and  cold  to 
the  head  are  to  be  practiced,  if  treatment  is  attempted. 

CONGESTION  OF  THE  BRAIN. 

There  is  a  form  of  congestive  apoplexy  affecting  cattle  which  are 
in  a  plethoric  condition.  The  congestion,  or  overfilling  with  blood, 
causes  pressure  on  the  brain  substance  and  disorganizes  its  function. 
It  occurs  mostly  in  hot  weather.  In  this  disease  the  symptoms  are 
somewhat  similar  to  those  exhibited  when  the  animal  has  enceph- 
alitis, but  the  onset  is  more  sudden,  the  duration  is  shorter,  and 
there  is  less  fever.  There  may  be  frenzy  or  coma,  or  alternations  one 
with  the  other.  The  intelligence  is  diminished,  staring  eyes,  bracing 
with  the  logs,  pressing  against  the  stall  partition  or  manger,  red 
mucous  membranes.     This  condition  usually  terminates  in  recovery. 

In  such  cases  bleeding  should  be  resorted  to  immediately,  and 
when  the  power  of  swallowing  is  not  lost  purgatives  should  be  ad- 


DISEASES   OF   THE   NERVOUS   SYSTEM.  105 

ministered.     Cold  applications  to  the  head  and  the  general  treat- 
ment recommended  for  encephalitis  are  indicated. 

CONCUSSION  OF  THE  BRAIN. 

Severe  blows  on  the  head,  striking  the  head  against  some  hard 
object  while  running,  or  falling  on  the  head  may  cause  concussion 
of  the  brain.  The  injury  may  fracture  bones  of  the  cranium  and 
produce  compression  of  the  brain. 

SyTrhptoms  and  treatment. — The  symptoms  and  the  treatment  that 
is  indicated  differ  very  little  from  what  has  been  said  under  conges- 
tion of  the  brain  and  under  encephalitis.  In  some  cases  it  may  be 
necessary  to  operate  to  remove  a  piece  of  bone  that  is  pressing  on  the 
brain  or  to  remove  a  clot  of  blood  under  the  area  which  received  the 
blow. 

EPILEPSY. 

This  affection  is  characterized  by  the  occurrence  of  sudden  con- 
vulsions. The  animal  may  appear  to  be  in  a  fair  state  of  health 
usually,  but  at  any  time,  in  the  stable  or  in  the  field,  it  may  have  a 
convulsion  in  which  it  will  fall  and  lose  consciousness.  Epilepsy 
must  not  be  confounded  with  vertigo — ^the  fainting  which  is  an  effect 
of  heart  troubles. 

The  exact  cause  of  epilepsy  in  the  majority  of  cases  is  unknown. 
Post-mortem  examinations  in  many  instances  have  failed  to  discover 
any  lesion  in  connection  with  the  brain  or  nervous  system ;  while  in 
other  instances  disease  of  the  brain  has  been  found  in  the  form  of 
thickening  of  the  membranes,  abscesses,  and  tumors,  and  in  some 
cases  the  affection  has  been  manifested  in  connection  with  a  diseased 
condition  of  the  blood.  The  cause  has  also  been  traced  to  reflex 
irritation,  due  to  teething,  worms,  and  chronic  indigestion. 

Treatment. — l^Tien  the  affection  is  due  to  the  last-named  causes 
treatment  may  be  successful  if  the  cause  is  removed.  If  there  are 
symptoms  of  worms  or  of  indigestion,  follow  the  general  treatment 
advised  for  those  troubles  under  their  proper  heads.  If  due  to  irrita- 
tion caused  by  teething,  the  inflamed  gums  must  be  lanced.  Exami- 
nation of  the  mouth  often  develops  the  fact  that  one  of  the  temporary 
teeth  causes  much  irritation  by  remaining  unshed,  and  thereby  inter- 
fering with  the  growth  of  a  permanent  tooth.  The  offending  tooth 
should  be  extracted.  When  the  cause  of  epilepsy  can  not  be  dis- 
covered, it  must  be  confessed  that  there  is  no  prospect  of  a  cure. 
However,  some  benefit  may  be  expected  from  the  occasional  admin- 
istration of  a  purgative  dose  of  medicine.  A  pound  of  Epsom  salt 
dissolved  in  a  quart  of  warm  water,  for  a  cow  of  average  size,  may  be 
given  as  a  drench  once  or  twice  a  month.  In  addition  to  the  purga- 
tive, 4  drams  of  bromid  of  potassium,  dissolved  in  the  drinking 
water,  three  times  a  day,  has  proved  very  beneficial  in  some  cases. 


106  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

SUNSTROKE  (PROSTRATION  FROM  HEAT). 

Owing  to  the  fact  that  cattle  are  seldom  put  to  work  at  which  they 
would  have  to  undergo  severe  exertion,  especially  in  collars,  they  are 
not  frequently  prostrated  by  the  extreme  heat  of  the  summer  months. 
When  at  pasture  they  select  the  coolest  places  in  the  shade  of  trees, 
in  water,  etc.,  when  the  heat  becomes  oppressive,  and  thereby  avoid, 
as  much  as  possible,  the  effects  of  it. 

It  does  happen,  however,  that  cattle  that  have  been  kept  up  for  the 
purpose  of  fattening,  when  driven  some  distance  in  very  hot  weather, 
are  sometimes  prostrated,  but  it  must  be  remembered  that  it  is  not 
really  necessary  for  the  animal  to  be  exposed  to  the  rays  of  the  sun,  as 
those  confined  in  hot,  close  places  may  suffer.  This  often  happens  in 
shipping,  when  they  are  crowded  together  in  cars. 

Symptoins. — The  premonitory  signs  are  those  of  exhaustion — dull- 
ness, panting,  frothing  at  the  mouth,  tongue  hanging  out,  irregular 
gait,  uneasiness,  palpitation — when,  if  the  circumstances  which  tend 
to  the  prostration  are  not  mitigated,  the  animal  staggers  or  sways 
from  side  to  side,  falls,  struggles  for  a  while,  and  then  gradually 
becomes  quiet,  or  the  struggles  may  continue,  with  repeated  but  inef- 
fectual efforts  to  regain  a  standing  position.  In  serious  cases  the 
attack  may  be  very  sudden,  unconsciousness  occurring  without  con- 
tinued or  distressing  premonitory  symptoms. 

Treatment. — At  first,  when  not  very  serious,  removal  to  a  quiet, 
sheltered  place,  with  a  few  days  on  a  reduced  diet,  is  all  that  need  be 
done.  When  the  animal  has  fallen,  apply  cold  water  or  ice  to  the 
head ;  rub  the  body  and  limbs  with  cloths  or  wisps  of  straw  and  continue 
the  rubbing  for  a  considerable  time.  If  the  power  of  swallow- 
ing is  not  lost  (which  may  be  ascertained  by  pouring  a  little  cold 
water  into  the  mouth),  give  3  drams  of  stronger  liquor  ammonia, 
diluted  with  a  quart  of  cold  water.  Be  very  careful  in  drenching  the 
animal  when  lying  down.  Repeat  the  drench  in  a  half  hour  and  an 
hour  after  the  first  one  has  been  given.  Instead  of  the  ammonia,  a 
drench  composed  of  3  ounces  of  spirits  of  nitrous  ether  in  a  pint  of 
water  may  be  given,  if  more  convenient,  but  the  ammonia  drench 
is  preferable.  If  unconsciousness  continues,  so  that  a  drench  can  not 
be  administered,  the  same  quantity  of  ammonia  and  water  may  be 
injected  with  a  syringe  into  the  rectum.  The  popular  aqua  ammonia, 
commonly  called  "  hartshorn,"  will  do  as  well  as  the  stronger  liquor 
ammonia,  but  as  it  is  weaker  than  the  latter  the  dose  for  a  cow  is 
about  1^  ounces,  which  should  be  diluted  with  a  quart  of  water  before 
it  is  given  to  the  animal,  either  as  a  drench  or  an  enema.  When 
ammonia  can  not  be  obtained,  a  pint  of  w^hisky  in  a  quart  of  water 
or  an  ounce  of  tincture  of  digitalis  may  be  given. 


DISEASES   OF    THE    NERVOUS   SYSTEM.  107 

As  soon  as  the  animal  is  able  to  rise  it  should  be  assisted  and 
moved  to  the  nearest  shelter.  All  the  cold  water  it  Avill  drink  should 
be  allowed.  The  ammonia  or  spirits  of  nitrous  ether  drench  should 
be  administered  every  three  hours  so  long  as  there  is  much  failure 
of  strength.  The  diet  should  be  limited  for  several  days — bran  slops 
and  a  little  grass.  When  signs  of  returning  strength  are  presented, 
12  ounces  of  Epsom  salts  dissolved  in  a  quart  of  warm  water  may  be 
given  in  those  cases  which  have  been  down  and  unconscious,  but 
do  not  give  it  while  much  weakness  remains,  which  may  be  for 
several  days  after  the  attack.  The  flesh  of  an  animal  that  is  suffer- 
ing from  heat  stroke  should  not  be  prepared  for  use  as  food.  On 
account  of  the  fever  with  which  the  animal  suffers,  the  flesh  contains 
toxins  that  may  render  it  poisonous  to  the  consumer. 

INJURIES  TO  THE  SPINAL  CORD. 

The  spinal  cord  is  liable  to  concussion  from  blows  and  falls,  and 
paralysis,  to  a  greater  or  less  extent,  may  be  the  result.  Fracture, 
with  displacement  of  the  bones  (vertebra?)  which  form  the  spinal 
column,  by  compressing  the  spinal  cord,  produces  paralysis,  which 
varies  in  its  effect  according  to  the  part  of  the  cord  that  is  com- 
pressed. If  the  fracture  is  above  the  middle  of  the  neck,  death  soon 
follows,  as  communication  between  the  brain  and  diaphragm  (the 
essential  muscle  of  inspiration)  is  stopped.  When  the  fracture  is 
farther  down  in  the  neck,  posterior  to  the  origin  of  the  phrenic  nerve, 
the  breathing  continues,  but  there  is  paralysis  in  all  parts  posterior 
to  the  fracture,  including  the  fore  and  hind  legs.  When  the  fracture 
is  in  the  region  of  the  loins  the  hind  legs  are  paralyzed,  but  the  fore 
legs  are  not.  If  the  fracture  is  in  the  sacrum  (the  division  of  the 
spinal  column  between  the  loins  and  the  tail),  the  tail  alone  is 
paralyzed. 

As  a  matter  of  course,  when  the  back  is  broken  there  is  no  remedy ; 
the  animal  should  be  killed  at  once. 

PARALYSIS. 

Paralysis,  or  loss  of  motion  in  a  part,  may  be  due  to  a  lesion  of 
the  brain,  of  the  spinal  cord,  or  of  a  nerve.  It  may  also  be  caused 
by  reflex  irritation.  When  the  paralysis  affects  both  sides  of  the 
body,  posterior  to  a  point,  it  is  further  designated  by  the  name 
paraplegia.  When  one  side  of  the  body  (a  lateral  half)  is  para- 
lyzed, the  term  hemiplegia  is  applied  to  the  affection.  When  paral- 
ysis is  caused  by  a  lesion  of  a  nerve,  the  paralysis  is  confined  to  the 
particular  part  supplied  by  the  affected  nerve. 

As  already  pointed  out,  paralysis  may  be  due  to  concussion  of  the 
spine,  fracture  of  a  bone  of  the  spinal  column  with  consequent  com- 


108  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

pression  of  the  spinal  cord,  concussion  of  the  brain,  or  compression 
of  the  brain.  An  injury  to  one  side  of  the  brain  may  jn-odiice 
paralysis  of  the  same  side  of  the  head  and  of  the  opposite  side  of  the 
body  (hemiplegia).  Paralysis  may  occur  in  connection  with  par- 
turient apoplexy,  lead  poisoning,  ergotism,  etc. 

CONGESTION  OF  THE  SPINAL  CORD. 

Paraplegia,  or  paralysis  of  the  rear  part  of  the  body,  is  the  domi- 
nant symptom  in  congestion  or  inflammation  of  the  spinal  cord.  The 
cause  is  not  known,  but  the  disease  is  probably  due  to  chilling.  It  is 
thought  by  some  that  some  toxic  influence  (poison)  may  be  responsi- 
ble for  its  development. 

Sijrrhptoms. — The  symptoms  usually  appear  suddenly  and  consist 
in  inability  to  stand.  Sometimes  this  is  preceded  by  a  period  of 
excitement.  The  animal  usually  lies  quietly,  but  sometimes  it  groans 
and  tosses  its  head  about  in  a  way  that  indicates  pain.  Cows  heavy 
with  calf  are  sometimes  affected  with  a  form  of  paraplegia,  which 
usually  attacks  them  from  about  a  month  to  a  few  days  before 
calving.  Apparently  they  are  in  good  health  in  ever}^  respect  ex- 
cept the  inability  to  stand  up  on  account  of  the  paralysis  of  the 
hind  quarters.  This  form  is  generally  attributed  to  feeding  on  feeds 
containing  insufficient  protein  and  ash.  It  is  most  likely  to  occur  in 
cows  that  are  weak  and  thin.  With  good  care  and  feed  recovery 
usually  occurs. 

Treatment. — The  animal  must  be  given  a  soft,  dry  bed  under  shel- 
ter and  in  a  quiet,  airy  place.  It  is  well  to  apply  mustard  along  the 
spine.  The  action  of  the  mustard  may  be  intensified  by  nibbing 
the  skin  with  ammonia  or  turpentine.  Internally  give  a  purge  of 
Glauber's  salt.  Nux  vomica  or  strychnia  (1  to  2  grain  doses)  may 
be  given.  Turn  the  cow  two  to  four  times  daily  and  rub  the  legs 
well  each  time. 

There  are  instances  when  cows  will  persist  in  l5'ing  down  (in  spit« 
of  all  efforts  that  are  made  to  compel  them  to  stand  up),  when  it  can 
not  really  be  said  that  they  are  paralyzed.  They  have  sensation  in 
all  parts;  they  can  move  all  their  feet;  they  can  change  their  posi- 
tion; and  in  fact  every  function  seems  to  be  normally  performed, 
but  they  obstinately  refuse  to  rise  or  even  make  an  effort  to  do  so. 
Cases  of  this  kind  have  been  killed,  as  it  was  an  utter  impossibility 
to  get  the  animal  on  its  feet.  However,  there  are  instances  when  a 
cow,  after  refusing  to  rise  when  all  other  means  had  been  tried, 
quickly  jumped  to  her  feet  and  showed  fright  upon  the  appearance 
of  a  dog  or  othei-  terrifying  object. 


DISEASES    OF    THE    NERVOUS    SYSTEM,  109 

RABIES  (HYDROPHOBIA). 

[See  discussion  of  tliis  disease  in  cliapter  on  "  Infectious  diseases,"  p.  356.] 

LIGHTNING  STROKE   (ASPHYXIA  ELECTRICA). 

When  an  animal  is  struck  by  lightning  the  shock  is  instantaneously 
expended  on  the  nervous  system,  and  as  a  rule  death  occurs  immedi- 
ately; but  when  the  shock  is  not  fatal  animation  is  suspended  to  a 
greater  or  less  extent,  as  evidenced  by  prostration,  unconsciousness, 
and  paralysis. 

Symptains. — When  not  fatal,  the  symptoms  vary  much,  according 
to  the  severity  of  the  shock.  The  animal  usually  falls,  as  from  an 
apoplectic  attack,  and,  as  a  matter  of  course,  the  symptoms  are  such 
as  are  generally  manifested  in  connection  with  concussion  of  the 
brain.  The  muscular  system  may  be  completely  relaxed;  the  legs 
limber ;  the  muscles  flabby  and  soft  to  the  touch ;  or  there  may  be  con- 
vulsions, spasms,  and  twitching  of  the  muscles.  The  breathing  is 
generally  labored,  irregular,  or  interrupted,  and  slower  than  normal. 
In  most  instances  the  electrical  fluid  leaves  its  mark  by  singeing  the 
hair,  or  by  inflicting  wounds,  burns,  or  blisters. 

Treatment. — So  long  as  the  beating  of  the  heart  is  perceptible  the 
endeavor  to  resuscitate  the  animal  should  be  continued.  Dash  cold 
water  over  the  head  and  body;  rub  the  body  and  legs;  smartly  whip 
the  body  with  wet  towels  or  switches.  Mustard,  mixed  with  water, 
should  be  well  rubbed  over  the  legs  and  back  of  the  head  on  each  side 
of  the  neck.  Inject  into  the  rectum  4  drams  of  stronger  liquor 
ammonia,  or  1^  ounces  of  hartshorn  diluted  with  a  quart  of  warm 
Avuter.  Cautiously  hold  an  uncorked  bottle  of  hartshorn  to  the  nos- 
trils, so  that  some  of  it  is  inhaled,  but  care  should  be  taken  that  too 
much  is  not  suddenly  inhaled.  If  the  animal  is  unconscious,  hypo- 
dermic injections  of  stimulants  are  indicated,  such  as  6  drams  of 
camphorated  oil  in  one  dose,  subcutaneously,  or  20  grains  of  caffein 
or  I  grain  of  strychnin,  also  subcutaneously. 

When  the  animal  revives  sufficiently  to  be  able  to  swallow,  4  drams 
of  the  stronger  liquor  ammonia,  diluted  with  a  quart  of  cold  water, 
should  be  given  as  a  drench,  and  the  dose  should  be  repeated  in  an 
hour.  One  and  one-half  ounces  of  ordinary  hartshorn  may  be  used 
instead  of  the  stronger  liquor  ammonia,  but.  like  the  latter,  it  should 
be  diluted  with  a  quart  or  more  of  water,  and  even  then  care  should 
be  exercised  in  drenching. 

In  cases  where  the  shock  has  not  caused  complete  insensibility 
recovery  may  be  hastened  by  the  ammonia  and  water  drench,  or  4 
ounces  of  brandy  diluted  with  a  quart  of  water,  or  8  ounces  of  whisky 
diluted  with  a  quart  of  water.  These  doses  may  be  given  every  three 
or  four  hours  if  necessary.  After  recovery  from  the  more  serious 
symptoms  2  drams  of  sulphate  of  quinin  should  be  given  twice  a 


110  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

day  until  health  is  restored.  If  any  paralysis  remains  1^  drams  of 
pulverized  nux  vomica  should  be  gi^■en  twice  a  day  with  the  quinin. 
The  foregoing  treatment  is  also  applicable  when  the  electrical 
shock  is  given  by  telephone,  electric  car,  or  electric-light  wires,  etc. 
The  wounds,  burns,  or  blisters  should  be  treated  according  to  the 
antiseptic  method  of  treating  wounds. 

TUMORS  IN  THE  BRAIN,  ETC. 

Tumors  of  diiferent  kinds  have  been  found  within  the  cranial  cav- 
ity, and  in  many  cases  there  have  been  no  Avell-marked  symptoms 
exhibited  during  the  life  of  the  animal  to  lead  one  to  suspect  their 
existence.  Cases  are  recorded  where  bony  tumors  have  been  foimd 
in  the  brain  of  cattle  that  died  suddenly,  but  during  life  no  signs  of 
disease  were  manifested.  Post-mortem  examinations  have  disclosed 
tubercles  in  the  membranes  of  the  brain.  (See  "Tuberculosis,"  p. 
405.)  Abscesses,  usually  the  result  of  inflammation  of  the  brain, 
have  been  found  post-mortem.  For  the  description  of  hydrocephalus, 
or  dropsy  of  the  brain,  of  calves  the  reader  is  referred  to  the  section 
on  parturition.     (See  "Water  in  the  head,"  p.  177.) 

Chorea,  constant  twitching  and  irregular  spasmodic  movements  of 
the  muscles,  has  been  noticed  in  connection  with  or  as  a  sequel  to 
other  affections,  as,  for  example,  parturient  apoplexy. 

Various  diseases,  the  description  of  which  will  be  found  in  other 
sections  of  this  work,  affect  the  nervous  system  to  a  greater  or  less 
extent — for  example,  ergotism,  lead  poisoning,  uremia,  parturient 
apoplexy,  colic,  and  other  affections  associated  with  cramps,  or 
spasms,  etc.  Disease  of  the  ovaries  or  of  the  spinal  cord,  bj'^  reflex 
irritation,  may  cause  estromania  (see  "  Excess  of  venereal  desire," 
p.  110,  constant  desire  for  the  bull). 


DISEASES  OF  THE  URINARY  ORGANS. 

By  James  Law,  F.  II.  C.  V.  S., 
Formerlij  Professor  of  Veterinary  Science,  etc.,  in  Cornell  University. 

Of  the  materials  that  have  served  their  purpose  in  building  up  the 
animal  body  or  in  sustaining  the  body  temperature,  and  that  are 
now  to  be  thrown  out  as  waste,  the  greater  part  are  expelled  from  the 
system  through  the  lungs  and  the  kidneys,  but  the  agents  that  pass 
out  b}^  either  of  these  two  channels  differ  in  the  main  from  those 
passing  by  the  other.  Thus  from  the  lungs  in  the  form  of  dioxid 
of  carbon — the  same  gas  that  comes  from  burning  of  coal  or  oil — 
there  escapes  most  of  the  waste  material  resulting  from  the  destruc- 
tion in  the  system  of  fats,  sugars,  starch,  and  such  other  foods  as  are 
wanting  in  the  element  nitrogen,  and  do  not  form  fibrous  tissues,  but 
go  mainly  to  support  animal  heat  or  maintain  functional  activity. 
From  the  kidneys,  on  the  other  hand,  are  thrown  out  the  waste  prod- 
ucts resulting  from  the  destruction  of  the  foods  and  tissues  contain- 
ing nitrogen — of,  for  instance,  albumin,  fibrin,  gluten,  casein,  gela- 
tin, woody  tissue,  etc.  While  much  of  the  waste  material  containing 
nitrogen  leaves  the  body  by  the  bowels,  this  is  virtually  only  such  of 
the  albuminoid  food  as  has  failed  to  be  fully  digested  and  absorbed ; 
this  has  never  formed  a  true  constituent  part  of  the  body  itself  or 
of  the  blood,  but  is  so  much  waste  food,  like  that  which  has  come 
to  the  table  and  again  carried  away  unused.  If  the  albuminoid 
food  element  has  entered  the  blood,  whether  or  not  it  has  been  built 
up  into  a  constituent  part  of  the  structure  of  the  body,  its  waste 
products,  which  contain  nitrogen,  are  in  the  main  expelled  through 
the  kidneys,  so  that  the  latter  become  the  principal  channels  for 
the  expulsion  of  all  nitrogen-containing  waste. 

It  would  be  an  error,  how^ever,  to  infer  that  all  nitrogenous  food, 
when  once  digested  and  absorbed  into  the  blood,  must  necessarily 
leave  the  system  in  the  urine.  On  the  contrary,  in  the  young  and 
growing  animal,  all  increase  of  the  fibrous  structures  of  the  body  is 
gained  through  the  building  up  of  those  flesh-forming  constituents 
into  their  substance;  in  the  pregnant  animal  the  growth  of  the  off- 
spring and  its  envelopes  has  a  similar  origin,  and  in  the  dairy  cow 
the  casein  or  curd  of  the  milk  is  a  means  of  constant  elimination  of 
these  nitrogen-containing  agents.  Thus,  in  the  breeding  cow  and, 
above  all,  in  the  milking  cow,  the  womb  or  udder  carries  on  a  work 
in  one  sense  equivalent  to  that  otherw^ise  performed  by  the  kidneys. 

Ill 


112  .  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

Not  only  are  these  organs  alike  channels  for  the  excretion  of  albu- 
minous products,  but  they  are  also  related  to  each  other  structurally 
and  by  nervous  sympathy,  so  that  suffering  in  the  one  is  liable  to 
induce  some  measure  of  disorder  in  the  other. 

As  in  the  case  of  other  mammals,  this  nitrogenous  waste  matter  is 
mainly  present  in  the  urine  of  cattle  in  the  form  of  urea,  but  also,  to 
some  extent,  as  hippuric  acid,  a  derivative  of  vegetable  food  which,  in 
the  herbivora,  replaces  the  uric  acid  found  in  the  urine  of  man  and 
carnivora.  Uric  acid  is,  however,  found  in  the  urine  of  sucking 
calves  which  have  practically  an  animal  diet,  and  it  may  also  appear 
in  the  adult  in  case  of  absolute,  prolonged  starvation,  and  in  diseases 
attended  with  complete  loss  of  appetite  and  rapid  wasting  of  the 
body.  In  such  cases  the  animal  lives  on  its  own  substance,  and  the 
product  is  that  of  the  wasting  flesh. 

The  other  products  containing  nitrogen  are  present  in  only  small 
quantities  and  need  not  be  specially  referred  to.  The  urine  of  cattle 
contains  much  less  of  carbonates  than  that  of  the  horse,  and  effer- 
vesces less  on  the  addition  of  an  acid.  As  the  carbonates  form 
a  large  proportion  of  the  solid  deposits  (gravel,  stone)  from  the 
horse's  urine,  the  ox  may  thus  be  held  less  liable,  yet  even  in  the  ox 
the  carbonates  become  abundant  or  scanty,  according  to  the  nature 
of  the  feed,  -and  therefore  gravel,  formed  by  carbonate  of  lime,  is  not 
infrequent  in  cattle.  When  fed  on  beets,  clover  hay,  or  bean  straw 
carbonates  are  present  in  large  quantities,  these  aliments  being  rich 
in  organic  acids  and  alkaline  carbonates;  whereas  upon  oat  straw, 
barley  straw,  and,  above  all,  wheat  straAv,  they  are  in  small  amount. 
In  calves  fed  on  milk  alone  no  carbonates  are  found  in  the  urine. 

Phosphates,  usually  in  combination  wdth  lime,  are,  as  a  rule,  pres- 
ent only  in  traces  in  the  urine  of  cattle;  however,  on  a  dietary  of 
wheat,  bran,  or  other  aliment  rich  in  phosphates,  these  may  be  pres- 
ent in  large  amount,  so  that  they  render  the  liquid  cloudy  or  are 
deposited  in  solid  crystals.  The  liquid  is  rendered  transparent  by 
nitric  acid. 

The  cow's  urine,  on  a  diet  of  hay  and  potatoes,  contained : 

Parts. 

Urea 18.  5 

Potassic  liippurate 16.  5 

Alkaline  lactates 17.  2 

Potassium   bicarbonate 16. 1 

Magnesium  carbonate 4.  7 

Lime  carbonate 0.  6 

Potassium   sulphate 3.  6 

Connnon  salt 1.  5 

Silica Trace 

Phosphate.s ^ 0.  0 

Water  and  undclcM-niiiicd  substances 921.3 

Total 1,  000.  0 


DISEASES    OF    THE    UEINAEY    ORGANS. 


113 


The  following  table  after  Tereg  ^  gives  the  different  conditions  of 
the  urine,  and  especially  the  amount  of  urea  and  hippuric  acid  under 
different  rations.  The  subjects  were  two  oxen,  weighing,  respectively, 
1,260  pounds  and  1,060  pounds: 


Feed  per  day  (pounds). 


■6 

03 

ft 
<D 

a 

1 

.1 

3 
13 

1 
"o 

CO 

■6 

w 
W 

s 

OS 

g 

1 

d 

o 

EH 

•V 

£ 

Lbs. 

Lbs. 

P.ct. 

p.ct. 

p.ct. 

P.ct. 

Ozs. 

46.46 

7.40 

1,036 

8.41 

2.66 

1.33 

0.83 

0.94 

1.63 

61.10 

15.26 

1,039 

6.93 

2.09 

0.84 

0.55 

0.49 

2.2 

71.76 

12.36 

1,043 

8.05 

0.95 

1.85 

0.93 

0.94 

3.83 

80.54 

12.46 

1,044 

8.29 

8.07 

2.41 

1.19 

1.11 

5.8 

78.96 

17.62 

1,043 

8.41 

0.74 

3.12 

1.45 

1.24 

9.17 

110.12 

25.86 

1,038 

7.00 

0.31 

2.49 

1.19 

1.25 

10.9 

101.  80 

27.04 

1,037 

7.14 

0.20 

2.95 

1.39 

1.58 

13.3 

119.00 
54.84 

23.20 
12.60 

1,038 
1,043 

7.74 
7.06 

0.21 
0.40 

4.06 
2.53 

1.91 
1.21 

1.69 
1.15 

15.4 
5.3 

55.76 

16.34 

1,036 

5.45 

0.11 

1.41 

0.67 

0.64 

3.83 

36.26 

15.14 

1,042 

7.91 

1.30 

1.73 

0.91 

0.92 

4.37 

16.90  wheat  straw,  and  1.30  bean 
meal 

14.70  oat  straw,  and  2.30  bean  meal. . 

10.4  wheat  straw,  10.4  clover  hay, 
0.6  bean  meal,  and  2.6  starch 

10.4  wheat  straw,  10.4  clover  hay, 
2.7  bean  meal,  1.4  starch,  and  0.8 
sugar 

10.4  wheat  straw,  10.4  clover  hay,  5 
bean  meal,  and  0.8  sugar 

10  wheat  straw,  10  clover  hay,  0.4 
bean  meal,  1.7  starch,  4  sugar,  and 
0.4  rape  oil 

10  wheat  straw,  10  clover  hay,  9.4 
bean  meal,  3.1  sugar,  and  0.4  rape 
oil 

10  wheat  straw,  10  clover  hay,  11.7 
bean  meal,  2.8  starch,  and  0.5  rape 
oil 

17.86  bean  straw,  and  1.6  bean  meal 

14.88  bean  straw 

16.90  meadow  hay , 


Ozs. 
3.23 

5.3 

1.96 


2.1 
2.17 

1.33 

0.9 


0.8 
0.83 
0.3 
3.3 


The  varying  quantity  of  urea  (from  1.6  to  15.4  ounces)  is  most  sug- 
gestive as  to  the  action  of  the  more  or  less  nitrogenous  feed  and  the 
resulting  concentration  of  the  urine  and  blood.  Hippuric  acid,  on 
the  other  hand,  is  most  abundant  when  the  animal  is  fed  on  hay  and 
straw. 

The  specific  gravity  of  the  urine  of  cattle  varies  from  1,030  to  1,060 
in  health,  water  being  1,000.  It  is  transparent,  with  a  yellowish  tinge, 
and  has  a  characteristic,  musky  smell.  The  chemical  reaction  is  alka- 
line, turning  red  litmus  paper  blue.  The  quantity  passed  in  twenty- 
four  hours  varies  greatly,  increasing  not  only  with  the  water  drunk, 
but  with  the  albuminoids  taken  in  with  the  feed  and  the  urea  pro- 
duced. If  a  solution  of  urea  is  injected  into  the  veins  the  secretion 
of  urine  is  greatly  augmented.  Similarly  the  excess  of  salts  like  car- 
bonate of  potash  in  the  feed,  or  of  sugar,  increases  the  action  of  the 
kidneys.     Only  about  20  per  cent  of  the  water  swallowed  escapes  in 


33071°— 16- 


1  Encyklop.  der  Thierheilk.,  Vol.  IV,  p.  208. 
-8 


114  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

the  urine,  the  remaining  80  per  cent  passing  mostly  from  the  lungs, 
and  to  a  slight  extent  by  the  bowels.  The  skin  of  the  ox  does  not 
perspire  so  readily  nor  so  freely  as  that  of  the  horse;  hence  the 
kidneys  and  lungs  are  called  upon  for  extra  work.  The  influence 
of  an  excess  of  water  in  the  feed  is  most  remarkable  in  swill-fed 
distillery  cattle,  which  urinate  profusely  and  frequently,  yet  thrive 
and  fatten  rapidly. 

Among  the  other  conditions  that  increase  the  flow  of  urine  is  over- 
filling of  (internal  pressure  in)  the  blood  vessels  of  the  kidneys; 
hence  the  contraction  of  the  blood  vessels  of  the  skin  by  cold  drives 
the  blood  inward,  tends  to  dilate  the  blood  vessels  of  the  kidneys, 
and  to  increase  the  secretion  of  urine.  Nervous  disorders,  such  as 
excitement,  fear,  congestions,  or  structural  injuries  to  the  back  j)art 
of  the  base  of  the  brain,  have  a  similar  result,  hence,  doubtless,  the 
action  of  certain  fungi  growing  in  musty  hay  or  oats  in  producing 
profuse  flow  of  urine,  whereas  other  forms  of  must}'^  fodder  cause 
stupor,  delirium,  or  paralysis.  Bacteria  and  their  products  are 
mainly  expelled  by  the  kidneys,  and  become  sources  of  local  infection, 
irritation,  and  disease. 

The  quantity  of  urine  passed  daily  by  an  ox  on  dry  feeding  aver- 
ages 7  to  12  pints,  but  this  may  be  increased  enormously  on  a  Avatery 
diet. 

The  mutual  influence  of  the  kidneys  and  other  important  organs 
tends  to  explain  the  way  in  which  disease  in  one  part  supervenes  on 
preexisting  disorder  in  another.  The  introduction  of  albuminoids  in 
excess  into  the  blood  means  the  forniation  of  an  excess  of  urea,  and  a 
more  profuse  secretion  of  urine,  of  a  higher  specific  gravity,  and 
with  a  greater  tendency  to  deposit  its  solid  constituents,  as  gravel,  in 
the  kidneys  or  bladder.  A  torpid  action  of  the  liver,  leaving  the 
albuminoids  in  transition  forms,  less  soluble  than  the  urea  into  which 
they  should  have  been  changed,  favors  the  onset  of  rheumatism  or  of 
nervous  disorder,  the  deposit  of  such  albuminoid  products  in  the  kid- 
neys, the  formation  of  a  deep-brown  or  reddish  urine,  and  congestion 
of  the  kidneys.  Any  abnormal  activity  of  the  liver  in  the  production 
of  sugar — more  than  can  be  burned  up  in  the  circulation — over- 
stimulates  the  kidneys  and  produces  increased  flow  of  a  heavy  urine 
with  a  sweetish  taste.  This  increased  production  of  sugar  may  be 
primarily  due  to  disease  of  the  brain,  which,  in  its  turn,  determines 
the  disorder  of  the  liver.  Disease  of  the  right  side  of  the  heart  or  of 
the  lungs,  by  obstructing  the  onward  flow  of  blood  from  the  veins, 
increases  the  blood  pressure  in  the  kidneys  and  produces  disorder 
and  excessive  secretion.  Inactivity  of  the  kidneys  determines  an 
increase  in  the  blood  of  waste  products,  which  become  irritating  to 
difi'erent  parts,  producing  skin  eruptions,  itching,  dropsies,  and  nerv- 
ous disorders.     Sprains  of  the  loins  pi-oduce  bleeding  fi-om  the  kid- 


DISEASES    OF    THE    URINARY   ORGANS.  115 

neys  and  disease  of  the  spinal  cord,  and  sometimes  determine  albumi- 
nous or  milky  looking  urine. 

The  kidney  of  the  ox  (PI.  IX,  fig.  1)  is  a  compound  organ  made  up 
of  15  to  25  separate  lobules  like  so  many  separate  kidneys,  but  all 
pouring  their  secretion  into  one  common  pouch  (pelvis)  situated  in 
an  excavation  in  the  center  of  the  lower  surface.  While  the  ox  is  the 
only  domesticated  quadruped  which  maintains  this  divided  condition 
of  the  kidney  after  birth,  this  condition  is  common  to  all  while  at  an 
early  stage  of  development  in  the  womb.  The  cluster  of  lobules 
making  up  a  single  kidney  forms  an  ovoid  mass  flattened  from  above 
downward,  and  extending  from  the  last  rib  backward  beneath  the 
loins  and  to  one  side  of  the  solid  chain  of  the  backbone.  The  right 
is  more  firmly  attached  to  the  loins  and  extends  farther  backward 
than  the  left.  Deeply  covered  in  a  mass  of  suet,  each  kidney  has  a 
strong  outer,  white,  fibrous  covering,  and  inside  this  two  successive 
layers  of  kidney  substance,  of  which  the  outer  is  that  in  which  the 
urine  is  mainly  separated  from  the  blood  and  poured  into  the  fine, 
microscopic  urinary  ducts.  (PL  X,  fig.  1)  These  latter,  together 
with  blood  vessels,  lymph  vessels,  and  nerves,  make  up  the  second,  or 
internal,  layer.  The  outer  layer  is  mainly  composed  of  minute  glob- 
ular clusters  of  microscopic,  intercommunicating  blood  vessels  (Mal- 
pighian  bodies),  each  of  which  is  furnished  with  a  fibrous  capsule 
that  is  nothing  else  than  the  dilated  commencement  of  a  urine  tube. 
These  practicall}^  microscopic  tubes  follow  at  first  a  winding  course 
through  the  outer  layer  (Ferrein's  tubes),  then  form  a  long  loop 
(doubling  on  itself)  in  the  inner  layer  (Henle's  loop),  and  finally 
pass  back  through  the  inner  layer  (Bellini's  tubes)  to  open  through 
a  conical  process  into  the  common  pouch  (pelvis)  on  the  lower  surface 
of  the  organ.     (PL  X,  figs.  1,  2,  3.) 

The  tube  that  conveys  the  urine  from  the  kidney  to  the  bladder  is 
like  a  white,  round  cord,  about  the  size  of  a  goose  quill,  prolonged 
from  the  pouch  on  the  lower  surface  of  the  kidney  backward  beneath 
the  loins,  then  inward,  supported  by  a  fold  of  thin  membrane,  to 
open  into- the  bladder  just  in  front  of  its  neck.  The  canal  passes  first 
through  the  middle  (muscular)  coat  of  the  bladder,  and  then  ad- 
vances perceptibly  between  that  and  the  internal  (mucous)  coat, 
through  which  it  finally  opens.  By  this  arrangement  in  overfilling 
the  bladder  this  opening  is  closed  like  a  valve  by  the  pressure  of  the 
urine,  and  the  return  of  liquid  to  the  kidney  is  prevented.  The. blad- 
der (PL  IX,  fig.  2)  is  a  dilatable,  egg-shaped  pouch,  closed  behind  by 
a  strong  ring  of  muscular  fibers  encircling  its  neck,  and  enveloped  by 
looped,  muscular  fibers  extending  on  all  sides  around  its  body  and 
closed  anterior  end.  Stimulated  by  the  presence  of  urine,  these  last 
contract  and  expel  contents  through  the  neck  into  the  urethra. 
This  last  is  the  tube  leading  backward  along  the  floor  of  the  pelvic 


116  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

bones  and  downward  through  the  penis.  In  the  bull  this  canal  of  the 
urethra  is  remarkable  for  its  small  caliber  and  for  the  S -shaped  bend 
which  it  describes  in  the  space  between  the  thighs  and  just  above 
the  scrotum.  This  bend  is  attributable  to  the  fact  that  the  retractor 
muscles  are  attached  to  the  penis  at  this  point,  and  in  withdrawing 
that  organ  within  its  sheath  they  double  it  upon  itself.  The  small 
size  of  the  canal  and  this  S-shaped  bend  are  serious  obstacles  to  the 
passing  of  a  catheter  to  draw  the  urine,  yet  by  extending  the  penis 
out  of  its  sheath  the  bend  is  effaced,  and  a  small,  gum-elastic  catheter, 
not  more  than  one-fourth  of  an  inch  in  diameter,  may  with  care  be 
passed  into  the  bladder.  In  the  coav  the  urethra  is  A'ery  short,  open- 
ing in  the  median  line  on  the  floor  of  the  vulva  about  4  inches  in  front 
of  its  external  orifice.  Even  in  her,  however,  the  passing  of  a  cathe- 
ter is  a  matter  of  no  little  difficulty,  the  opening  of  the  urethra  being 
very  narrow  and  encircled  by  the  projecting  membranous  and  rigid 
margins,  and  on  each  side  of  the  opening  is  a  blind  pouch  (canal  of 
Gartner)  into  which  the  catheter  will  almost  invariably  find  its  way. 
In  both  male  and  female,  therefore,  the  passing  of  a  catheter  is  an 
operation  which  demands  special  skill. 

General  symptoms  of  urinary  disorders. — These  are  not  so  promi- 
nent in  cattle  as  in  horses,  yet  they  are  of  a  similar  kind.  There  is  a 
stiff  or  straddling  gait  with  the  hind  limbs  and  some  difficulty  in 
turning  or  in  lying  down  and  rising,  the  act  causing  a  groan.  The 
frequent  passage  of  urine  in  driblets,  its  continuous  escape  in  drops, 
the  sudden  arrest  of  the  flow  when  in  full  stream,  the  rhythmic 
contraction  of  the  muscles  under  the  anus  without  any  flow  resulting, 
the  swelling  of  the  sheath,  the  collection  of  hard,  gritty  masses  on 
the  hair  surrounding  the  orifice  of  the  sheath,  the  occurrence  of  drop- 
sies in  the  limbs  under  the  chest  or  belly,  or  in  either  of  these  cavi- 
ties, and  finally  the  appearance  of  nervous  stupor,  may  indicate 
serious  disorder  of  the  urinary  organs.  The  condition  of  the  urine 
passed  may  likewise  lead  to  suspicion.  It  may  be  white,  from  crystal- 
lized carbonate  of  lime;  brown,  red,  or  even  black,  from  the  presence 
of  blood  or  blood-coloring  matter ;  yellow,  from  biliary  coloring  mat- 
ter; frothy,  from  contained  albumin;  cloudy,  from  phosphates; 
glairy,  from  pus;  it  may  also  show  gritty  masses  from  gravel.  In 
many  cases  of  urinary  disorder  in  the  ox,  hoAvever,  the  symptoms  are 
by  no  means  prominent,  and  unless  special  examination  is  made  of 
the  loins,  the  bladder,  and  the  urine  the  true  nature  of  the  malady 
may  be  overlooked. 

DIURESIS    (POLYURIA,    DIABETES   INSIPIDUS,    EXCESSIVE    SECRE- 
TION OF  URINE). 

A  secretion  of  urine  in  excess  of  the  normal  amount  may  be  looked 
on  as  disease,  even  if  the  result  does  not  lead  to  immediate  loss  of 
condition.     Cattle  fed  on  distillery  swill  are  striking  examples  of  such 


DISEASES    OF    THE    URINAEY    ORGANS.  117 

excess  caused  by  the  enormous  consumption  of  a  liquid  feed,  which 
nourishes  and  fattens  in  spite  of  the  diuresis;  the  condition  is  un- 
wholesome, and  cattle  that  have  passed  four  or  five  months  in  a 
swill  stable  have  fatty  livers  and  Iddneys,  and  never  again  do  well  on 
ordinary  feed.  Diuresis  may  further  occur  from  increase  of  blood 
pressure  in  the  kidneys  (diseases  of  the  heart  or  lungs  which  hinder 
the  onward  passage  of  the  blood,  the  eating  of  digitalis,  English 
broom,  the  contraction  of  the  blood  vessels  on  the  surface  of  the  body 
in  cold  weather,  etc.)  ;  also  from  acrid  or  diuretic  plants  taken  with 
the  feed  (dandelion,  burdock,  colchicum,  digitalis,  savin,  resinous 
shoots,  etc.)  ;  from  excess  of  sugar  in  the  feed  (beets,  turnips,  ripe 
sorghum)  ;  also  from  the  use  of  frozen  feed  (frosted  turnip  tops  and 
other  vegetables),  and  from  the  growths  of  certain  molds  in  fodder 
(musty  hay,  mow-burnt  hay,  moldy  oats,  moldy  bread,  etc.) .  Finally, 
alkaline  waters  and  alkaline  incrustations  on  the  soil  may  be  active 
causes.  In  some  of  these  cases  the  result  is  beneficial  rather  than  in- 
jurious, as  when  cattle  affected  with  gravel  in  the  kidneys  are  en- 
tirely freed  from  this  condition  by  a  run  at  grass,  or  by  an  exclusive 
diet  of  roots  or  swill.  In  other  cases,  however,  the  health  and  condi- 
tion suffer,  and  even  inflammation  of  the  kidneys  may  occur. 

Treatment. — The  treatment  is  mainly  in  the  change  of  diet  to  a 
more  solid  aliment  destitute  of  the  special,  offensive  ingredient. 
Boiled  flaxseed  is  often  the  best  diet  or  addition  to  the  wholesome 
dry  food,  and,  by  waj^  of  medicine,  doses  of  2  drams  each  of  sulphate 
of  iron  and  iodid  of  potassium  may  be  given  twice  daily.  In  obsti- 
nate cases  2  drams  ergot  of  rye  or  of  catechu  may  be  added. 

BLOODY  URINE  (RED  WATER,  MOOR  ILL,  WOOD  ILL,  HEMATURIA, 

HEMAGLOBINURIA). 

This  is  a  common  affection  among  cattle  in  certain  localities,  above 
all  on  damp,  undrained  lands  and  under  a  backward  agriculture.  It 
is  simply  bloody  urine  or  hematuria  when  the  blood  is  found  in  clots, 
or  when  under  the  microscope  the  blood  globules  can  be  detected  as 
distinctly  rounded,  flattened  disks.  It  is  smoky  urine — hemaglobinu- 
ria — when  neither  such  distinct  clots  nor  blood  disks  can  be  found,  but 
merely  a  general  browning,  reddening,  or  blackening  of  the  urine  by 
the  presence  of  dissolved,  blood-coloring  matter.  The  bloody  urine  is 
the  more  direct  result  of  structural  disease  of  the  kidneys  or  urinary 
passages  (inflammation,  stone,  gravel,  tumors,  hydatids,  kidney 
worms,  sprains  of  the  loins),  while  the  stained  urine  (hemaglobinu- 
ria)  is  usually  the  result  of  some  general  or  more  distinct  disorder  in 
which  the  globules  are  destroyed  in  the  circulating  blood  and  the 
coloring  matter  dissolved  in  and  diffused  through  the  whole  mass  of 
the  blood  and  of  the  urine  secreted  from  it.  As  in  the  two  forms, 
blood  and  the  elements  of  blood  escape  into  the  urine,  albumin  is 


118  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

always  present,  so  that  there  is  albuminuria  with  blood-coloring  mat- 
ter superadded.  If  from  stone  or  gravel,  gritty  particles  are  usually 
passed,  and  may  be  detected  in  the  bottom  of  a  dish  in  which  the 
liquid  is  caught.  If  from  fracture  or  severe  sprain  of  the  loins,  it 
is  liable  to  be  associated  not  only  with  some  loss  of  control  of  the 
hind  limbs  and  with  staggering  behind  but  also  with  a  more  or  less 
perfect  paralysis  of  the  tail.  The  bloodstained  urine  without  red 
globules  results  from  specific  diseases — Texas  fever  (PI.  XL VII, 
fig.  3),  anthrax,  spirillosis,  and  from  eating  irritant  plants  (broom, 
savin,  mercury,  hellebore,  ranunculus,  convolvulus,  colchicum,  oak 
shoots,  ash  privet,  hazel,  hornbeam,  and  other  astringent,  acrid,  or 
resinous  plants,  etc.).  The  Maybug  or  Spanish  fly  taken  with  the 
feed  or  spread  over  a  great  extent  of  skin  as  a  blister  has  a  similar 
action.  Frosted  turnips  or  other  roots  will  bring  on  the  affection  in 
some  subjects.  Among  conditions  which  act  by  the  direct  destruc- 
tion of  the  globules  in  the  circulating  blood  may  be  named  an  excess 
of  water  in  that  fluid;  the  use  of  water  from  soils  rich  in  decom- 
posing vegetable  matter  and  containing  alkaline  salts,  particularly 
nitrites;  and  the  presence  in  the  water  and  feed  of  the  ptomaines  of 
bacteria  growth ;  hence  the  prevalence  of  "  red  water "  in  marshy 
districts  and  on  clayey  and  other  impervious  soils,  and  the  occurrence 
of  bloody  urine  in  the  advanced  stages  of  several  contagious  diseases. 
Some  mineral  poisons — such  as  iodin,  arsenic,  and  phosphorus  taken 
to  excess — ^may  cause  hematuria,  and  finally  the  symptoms  may  be 
merely  the  result  of  a  constitutional  predisposition  of  the  individual 
or  family  to  bleeding.  In  some  predisposed  subjects,  exposure  of 
the  body  to  cold  or  wet  will  cause  the  affection. 

The  specific  symptom  of  bloody  or  smolr^  water  is  a  very  patent 
one.  It  may  or  may  not  be  associated  with  fever,  with  the  presence 
or  absence  of  abdominal  tenderness  on  pressure,  with  a  very  frothy 
state  of  the  milk  or  even  a  reddish  tinge,  with  or  without  marked 
paleness  of  the  mucous  membranes,  and  general  weakness.  When 
direct  injury  to  the  kidneys  is  the  immediate  cause  of  the  disease  the 
urine  Avill  be  passed  often,  in  small  quantity  at  a  time,  and  with  much 
straining.  When  there  is  bloodlessness  (a  watery  blood)  from  in- 
sufficient nourishment,  fever  is  absent  and  the  red  water  is  at  first 
the  only  symptom.  When  the  active  cause  has  been  irritant  plants, 
abdominal  tenderness,  colics,  and  other  signs  of  bowel  inflammation 
are  marked  features. 

Treatment. — Treatment  varies  according  as  the  cause  has  been  a 
direct  irritant  operating  on  a  subject  in  vigorous  health  or  a  micro- 
bian  poison  acting  on  an  animal  deficient  in  blood  and  vigor.  In  the 
first  form  of  red  water  a  smart  purgative  (1  pound  to  1^  pounds 
Glauber's  salt)  will  clear  away  the  irritants  from>  the  bowels  and 
allav  the  coexistent  hic-h  fever.     It  will  also  serve  to  divert  to  the 


DISEASES    OF    THE    URINAKY    ORGANS.  119 

bowels  much  of  the  irritant  products  ah'eady  absorbed  into  the  blood 
and  will  thus  protect  the  kidneys.  In  many  such  cases  a  liberal  sup- 
ply of  wholesome,  easily  digestible  feed  will  be  all  the  additional 
treatment  required.  In  this  connection  demulcent  feed  (boiled  flax- 
seed, wheat  bran)  is  especially  good.  If  much  blood  has  been  lost, 
bitters  (gentian,  one-half  ounce)  and  iron  (sulphate  of  iron,  2  drams) 
should  be  given  for  a  Aveek. 

For  cases  in  Avhich  excess  of  diuretic  plants  has  been  taken,  it  may 
be  well  to  replace  the  salts  by  1  to  2  pints  of  olive  oil,  adding  1  ounce 
of  laudanum  and  2  drams  of  gum  camphor;  also  to  apply  fomenta- 
tions or  a  fresh  sheepskin  over  the  loins.  Buttermilk  or  vinegar,  one- 
half  pint,  or  sulphuric  acid,  60  drops  in  a  pint  of  water,  may  also  be 
used  frequently  as  injections.  In  cases  caused  by  sprained  or  frac- 
tured loins,  inflamed  kidneys,  stone  or  gravel,  the  treatment  will  be 
as  for  the  particular  disease  in  question. 

In  hematuria  from  anemia  (watery  blood),  whether  from  insuffi- 
cient or  badly  adjusted  rations  or  from  the  poisonous  products  of 
fermentations  in  impervious  or  marshy  soils,  the  treatment  must  be 
essentially  tonic  and  stimulating.  Eich,  abundant,  and  easily  diges- 
tible feed  must  be  furnished.  The  different  grains  (oats,  barley, 
wheat,  bran,  rye)  and  seeds  (rape,  linseed,  cotton  seed)  are  especially 
called  for  and  may  be  given  either  ground  or  boiled.  As  a  bitter, 
sulphate  of  quinin,  one-half  dram,  and  tincture  of  chlorid  of  iron,  2 
drams,  may  be  given  in  a  pint  of  water  thrice  a  day.  In  some  cases 
1  or  2  teaspoonfuls  of  oil  of  turpentine  twice  daily  in  milk  will  act 
favorably. 

In  this  anemic  variety  prevention  is  the  great  need.  The  drainage 
and  cultivation  of  the  dangerous  soils  is  the  main  object.  Until  this 
can  be  accomplished  young  and  newly  purchased  cattle  not  yet  inured 
to  the  poisons  must  be  kept  from  the  dangerous  fields  and  turned  on 
only  those  which  are  already  drained  naturally  or  artificially.  Fur- 
ther, they  should  have  an  abundant  ration  in  which  the  local  product 
of  grass,  hay,  etc.,  is  supplemented  by  grain  or  other  seeds.  Another 
point  to  be  guarded  against  is  the  supply  of  water  that  has  drained 
from  marshes  or  impervious  soils,  rich  in  organic  matter,  as  such 
water  is  charged  with  nitrites,  ptomaines,  etc.,  which  directly  conduce 
to  the  disorder.  Fence  out  from  all  such  waters  and  supply  from 
living  springs  or  deep  wells  only. 

ALBUMIN  IN  THE  URINE  (ALBUMINURIA). 

In  bloody  urine  albumin  is  always  present  as  an  important  con- 
stituent of  the  blood,  and  in  congested  and  inflamed  kidneys  it  is 
present  as  a  part  of  the  inflammatory  exudate.  Apart  from  these, 
albumin  in  the  urine  represents  in  different  cases  a  variety  of  dis- 
eased conditions  of  the  kidneys  or  of  distant  organs.     Among  the 


120  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

additional  causes  of  albuminiuia  may  be  named:  (1)  An  excess  of 
albumin  in  the  blood  (after  easy  calving  with  little  loss  of  blood  and 
before  the  secretion  of  milk  has  been  established,  or  in  cases  of  sud- 
den suppression  of  the  secretion  of  milk)  ;  (2)  under  increase  of 
blood  pressure  (after  deep  drinking,  after  doses  of  digitalis  or 
broom,  after  transfusion  of  blood  from  one  animal  to  another,  or  in 
disease  of  the  heart  or  lungs  causing  obstruction  to  the  flow  of  blood 
from  the  veins)  ;  (3)  after  cutting  (or  disease)  of  the  motor  nerves 
of  the  vessels  going  to  the  kidneys,  causing  congestion  of  these 
organs;  (4)  violent  exertion,  hence  long  drives;  the  same  happens 
with  violent,  muscular  spasms,  as  from  strychnia  poisoning,  lock- 
jaw, epilepsy,  and  convulsions;  (5)  in  most  fevers  and  extensive  in- 
flammations of  important  organs,  like  the  lungs  or  liver,  the  escape 
of  the  albumin  being  variously  attributed  to  the  high  temperature 
of  the  body  and  disorder  of  the  nerves,  and  to  resulting  congestion 
and  disorder  of  the  secreting  cells  of  the  kidneys;  (6)  in  burns  and 
some  other  congested  states  of  the  skin;  (7)  under  the  action  of  cer- 
tain poisons  (strong  acids,  phosphorous,  arsenic,  Spanish  flies,  car- 
bolic acid,  and  those  inducing  bloody  urine)  ;  (8)  in  certain  con- 
ditions of  weakness  or  congestion  of  the  secreting  cells  of  the  kidneys, 
so  that  they  allow  this  element  of  the  blood  to  escape;  (9)  when  the 
feed  is  entirely  wanting  in  common  salt,  albumin  may  appear  in  the 
urine  temporarily  after  a  full  meal  containing  an  excess  of  albumin. 
It  can  also  be  produced  experimentally  by  puncturing  the  back  part 
of  the  base  of  the  brain  (the  floor  of  the  fourth  ventricle  close  to 
the  point  the  injury  to  which  causes  sugary  urine).  In  abscess, 
tumor,  or  inflammation  of  the  bladder,  ureter,  or  urethra  the  urine 
is  albuminous. 

It  follows,  therefore,  that  albumin  in  the  urine  does  not  indicate 
the  existence  of  any  one  specific  disease,  and  except  when  from  weak- 
ness or  loss  of  function  of  the  kidney  cells,  it  must  be  looked  on  as 
an  attendant  on  another  disease,  the  true  nature  of  which  we  must 
try  to  find  out.  These  affections  we  must  exclude  one  by  one  until 
we  are  left  to  assume  the  noninflammatory  disorder  of  the  secreting 
cells  of  the  kidney.  It  is  especially  important  to  exclude  inflamma- 
tion of  the  kidney,  and  to  do  tliis  may  require  a  microscopic  exami- 
nation of  the  sediment  of  the  urine  and  the  demonstration  of  the 
entire  absence  of  casts  of  the  uriniferous  tubes.     (See  "Nephritis," 

P-121.) 

To  detect  albumin  in  the  urine,  the  suspected  and  frothy  liquid 
must  be  rendered  sour  by  adding  a  few  drops  of  nitric  acid  and  then 
boiled  in  a  test  tube.  If  a  solid  precipitate  forms,  then  a  few  more 
drops  of  nitric  acid  should  be  added,  and  if  the  liquid  does  not  clear 
it  up  it  is  albumin.  A  precipitate  thrown  down  by  boiling  and  re- 
dissolved  by  nitric  acid  is  probably  phosphate  of  lime. 


DISEASES    OF    THE    URINARY    ORGANS.  121 

Tteattnent. — Treatment  is  usually  directed  to  the  disease  on  which 
it  is  dependent.  In  the  absence  of  any  other  recognizable  disease, 
mucilaginous  drinks  of  boiled  flaxseed,  slippery  elm,  or  gum  may  be 
given,  tannic  acid,  one-half  dram  twice  daily,  and  fomentations  or 
even  mustard  poultices  over  the  loins.  AVlien  the  disease  is  chronic 
and  there  is  no  attendant  fever  (elevation  of  temperature),  tonics 
(hydrochloric  acid,  6  drops  in  a  pint  of  water;  phosphate  of  iron,  2 
drams,  or  sulphate  of  quinin,  2  drams,  repeated  twice  daily)  may 
be  used.  In  all  cases  the  patient  should  be  kept  carefully  from  cold 
and  wet,  a  warm,  dry  shed,  or  in  w^arra  weather  a  dry,  sunny  yard 
or  pasture  being  especially  desirable. 

SUGAR  IN  URINE  (DIABETES  MELLITUS). 

This  is  a  frequent  condition  of  the  urine  in  parturition  fever,  but 
as  a  specific  disease,  associated  w^ith  deranged  liver  or  brain,  it  is 
practically  unknown  in  cattle.  As  a  mere  attendant  on  another  dis- 
ease it  demands  no  special  notice  here. 

INFLAMMATION  OF  THE  KIDNEYS   (NEPHRITIS). 

This  has  been  divided  according  as  it  affects  the  different  parts  of 
the  kidneys,  as:  (1)  Its  fibrous  covering  (perinephritis);  (2)  the 
secreting  tissue  of  its  outer  portion  (parenchymatous)  ;  (3)  the  con- 
nective tissue  (interstitial)  ;  (4)  the  lining  membrane  of  its  ducts 
(catarrhal)  ;  and  (5)  its  pelvis  or  sac  receiving  the  urine  (pyelitis). 
It  has  also  been  distinguished  according  to  the  changes  that  take 
place  in  the  kidne}'^,  especially  as  seen  after  death,  according  to  the 
quantity  of  albumin  in  the  urine,  and  according  as  the  affection  is 
acute  or  chronic.  For  the  purpose  of  this  w^ork  it  will  be  convenient 
to  consider  these  as  one  inflammatory  disease,  making  a  distinction 
merely  between  the  acute  and  the  chronic  or  of  long  standing. 

The  causes  are  in  the  main  like  those  causing  bloody  urine,  such 
as  irritant  and  diuretic  plants,  Spanish  flies  applied  as  a  blister  on 
otherwise,  exposure  to  cold  and  wet,  the  presence  of  stone  or  gravel 
in  the  kidnej^s,  injuries  to  the  back  or  loins,  as  by  riding  one  another, 
the  drinking  of  alkaline  or  selenitious  water,  the  use  of  putrid,  stag- 
nant water,  of  that  containing  bacteria  and  their  products,  the  con- 
sumption of  musty  fodder,  etc.     (See  "  Hematuria,"  p.  117.) 

The  length  of  the  loins  in  cattle  predisposes  these  parts  to  mechani- 
cal injury,  and  in  the  lean  and  especially  in  the  thin,  working  ox  the 
kidney  is  very  liable  to  suffer.  In  the  absence  of  an  abundance 
of  loose,  connective  tissue  and  of  fat,  the  kidneys  lie  in  close  contact 
with  the  muscles  of  the  loins,  and  any  injury  to  them  may  tend  to 
stretch  the  kidney  and  its  vessels,  or  to  cause  its  inflammation  by 
direct  extension  of  the  disease  from  the  injured  muscle  to  the  adja- 
cent kidney.     Thus,  under  unusually  heavy  draft,  under  slips  or 


122  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

falls  on  slippery  ground,  under  sudden  unexpected  drooping  or 
twisting  of  the  loins  from  missteps  or  from  the  feet  sinking  into 
holes,  under  the  loading  and  jarring  of  the  loins  when  animals  ride 
one  another  in  cases  of  "  heat,"  the  kidneys  are  subject  to  injury  and 
inflammation.  A  hard  run,  as  when  chased  by  a  dog,  may  be  the 
occasion  of  such  an  attack.  A  fodder  rich  in  nitrogenous  or  flesh- 
forming  elements  (beans,  peas,  vetches  (Vida  satlva),  and  other 
leguminous  plants)  has  been  charged  with  irritating  the  kidneys 
through  the  excess  of  urea,  hippuric  acid,  and  allied  products  elimi- 
nated through  these  organs  and  the  tendency  to  the  formation  of 
gravel.  It  seems,  however,  that  these  feeds  are  most  dangerous  when 
partially  ripened  and  yet  not  fully  matured,  a  stage  of  growth  at 
which  they  are  liable  to  contain  ingredients  irritating  to  the  stomach 
and  poisonous  to  the  brain,  as  seen  in  their  inducing  so-called  "  stom- 
ach staggers."  Even  in  the  poisoning  by  the  seeds  of  ripened 
but  only  partially  cured  rye  grass  (Loliu7/i  perenne),  and  darnel 
{Lolium  temMlentum)  ^  the  kidneys  are  found  violently  congested 
with  black  blood ;  also,  in  the  indigestions  that  result  from  the  eating 
of  partially  ripened  corn  or  millet  some  congestion  of  the  kidneys 
is  an  attendant  phenomenon. 

Cruzel  says  that  the  disease  as  occurring  locally  is  usually  not 
alone  from  the  acrid  and  resinous  plants  charged  with  inducing 
hematuria,  but  also  from  stinking  camomile  {Antherrds  cotula)  and 
field  poppy  when  used  in  the  fresh,  succulent  condition ;  also  from  the 
great  prevalence  of  dead  caterpillars  on  the  pasture,  or  from  dead 
Spanish  flies  in  the  stagnant  pools  of  water.  The  fresh  plants  are 
believed  to  be  injurious  only  by  reason  of  a  volatile  oil  which  is  dis- 
sipated in  drying.  In  the  case  of  the  stagnant  water  it  may  be  ques- 
tioned whether  the  chemical  products  of  the  contained  ferments 
(bacteria)  are  not  more  frequently  the  cause  of  the  evil  than  the 
alleged  Spanish  flies,  though  the  latter  are  hurtful  enough  when 
present. 

Inflammation  of  the  kidneys  may  further  be  a  form  or  an  exten- 
sion of  a  sjjecific  contagious  disease,  such  as  erysipelas,  rinderpest, 
septicemia,  or  even  of  poisoning  by  the  spores  of  fungi.  Rivolta 
reports  the  case  of  a  cow  with  spots  of  local  congestion  and  blood 
staining  in  the  kidney,  the  affected  parts  being  loaded  with  bac- 
teria. Unfortunately  he  neither  cultivated  the  bacteria  nor  inocu- 
lated them,  and  thus  the  case  stands  without  positive  demonstration 
that  they  were  the  cause  of  disease. 

In  certain  cases  the  symptoms  of  nephritis  are  very  manifest,  and 
in  others  so  hidden  that  the  existence  of  the  affection  can  be  certainly 
recognized  only  by  a  microscopic  examination  of  the  urine.  In  vio- 
lent cases  there  is  high  fever,  increase  of  the  body  temperature  to 
103°  F.  and  upward;  hurried  breathing,  with  a  catching  inspiration; 


DISEASES    OF    THE    URINARY    ORGANS.  123 

accelerated  pulse ;  dry,  hot  muzzle ;  burning  of  the  roots  of  the  horns 
and  ears ;  loss  of  appetite ;  suspended  rumination ;  and  indications  of 
extreme  sensitiveness  in  the  loins.  The  patient  stands  with  back 
arched  and  hind  legs  extended  backward  and  outward,  and  passes 
water  frequently,  in  driblets,  of  a  high  color  and  specific  gravity,  con- 
taining albumin  and  microscopic  casts.  (PI.  XI,  fig.  5).  Wlien  made 
to  move,  the  patient  does  so  with  hesitation  and  groaning,  espe- 
cially if  turned  in  a  narrow  circle;  when  pinched  on  the  flank  just 
beneath  the  lateral  bony  processes  of  the  loins,  especially  on  that 
side  on  which  the  disease  predominates,  it  flinches  and  groans.  If 
the  examination  is  made  with  oiled  hand  introduced  through  the 
last  gut  (rectum),  the  pressure  upward  on  the  kidneys  gives  rise  to 
great  pain  and  to  efforts  to  escape  by  moving  away  and  by  active 
contractions  of  the  rectum  for  the  expulsion  of  the  hand.  Some- 
times there  is  a  distinct  swelling  over  the  loins  or  quarter  on  one  or 
both  sides.  In  uncastrated  males  the  testicle  on  the  affected  side  is 
drawn  up,  or  is  alternately  raised  and  dropped.  In  all  there  is  a 
liability  to  tremors  of  the  thigh  on  the  side  affected. 

In  some  seA^ere  cases  colicky  pains  are  as  violent  as  in  the  worst 
forms  of  indigestion  and  spasms  of  the  bowels.  The  animal  fre- 
quently shifts  from  one  hind  foot  to  the  other,  stamps,  kicks  at  the 
belly,  frequently  looks  anxiously  at  its  flank,  moans  plaintively,  lies 
down  and  quickly  gets  up  again,  grinds  its  teeth,  twists  its  tail,  and 
keeps  the  back  habitually  arched  and  rigid  and  the  hind  feet  ad- 
vanced under  the  belly.  The  bowels  may  be  costive  and  the  feces 
glistening  with  a  coat  of  mucus,  or  they  may  be  loose  and  irritable, 
and  the  paunch  or  even  the  bowels  may  become  distended  with  gas 
(bloating)  as  the  result  of  indigestion  and  fermentation.  In  some 
animals,  male  and  female  alike,  the  rigid,  arched  condition  of  the 
back  will  give  way  to  such  undulating  movements  as  are  sometimes 
seen  in  the  act  of  coition. 

The  disease  does  not  always  appear  in  its  full  severity ;  for  a  day, 
or  even  two,  however,  there  may  be  merely  loss  of  appetite,  impaired 
rumination,  a  disposition  to  remain  lying  down,  yet  when  the  patient 
is  raised  it  manifests  suffering  by  anxiously  looking  at  the  flanks, 
shifting  or  stamping  of  the  hind  feet,  shaking  of  the  tail,  and  at- 
tempts to  urinate,  which  are  either  fruitless  or  lead  to  the  discharge 
of  a  small  quantity  of  high-colored  or  perhaps  bloody  urine. 

In  some  recent  slight  cases,  and  in  many  chronic  ones,  these  symp- 
toms may  be  absent  or  unobserved,  and  an  examination  of  the  urine 
is  necessary  to  reach  a  safe  conclusion.  The  urine  may  contain 
blood,  or  it  may  be  cloudy  from  contained  albumin,  which  coagulates 
on  heating  with  nitric  acid  (see  "Albuminuria,"  p.  119)  ;  it  may  be 
slightly  glairy  from  pus,  or  gritty  particles  may  be  detected  in  it.  In 
seeking  for  casts  of  the  uriniferous  tubes,  a  drop  may  be  taken  with  a 


124  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

fine  tube  from  the  bottom  of  the  liquid  after  standing,  and  examined 
under  a  power  magnif,ying  50  diameters.  If  the  fine,  cylindroid  fila- 
ments are  seen  they  may  then  be  examined  with  a  power  of  200  or 
250  diameters.  (PI.  XI,  fig.  5.)  The  appearance  of  the  casts  gives 
some  clue  to  the  condition  of  the  kidneys.  If  made  up  of  large, 
rounded  or  slightly  columnar  cells,  with  a  single  nucleus  in  each  cell 
(epithelial),  they  imply  comparatively  slight  and  recent  disease  of 
the  kidney  tubes,  the  detachment  of  the  epithelium  being  like  what 
is  seen  in  any  inflamed  mucous  surface.  If  made  up  largely  of  the 
small,  disk-shaped  and  nonnucleated  red-blood  globules,  they  imply 
escape  of  blood,  and  usually  a  recent  injury  or  congestion  of  the 
kidney — it  may  be  from  sprains,  blows,  or  the  ingestion  of  acrid  or 
diuretic  poisons.  If  the  casts  are  made  of  a  clear,  waxy,  homo- 
geneous substance  (hyaline),  without  any  admixture  of  opaque  par- 
ticles, they  imply  an  inflammation  of  longer  standing,  in  which  the 
inflamed  kidney  tubules  have  been  already  stripped  of  their  cellular 
(epithelial)  lining.  If  the  casts  are  rendered  opaque  by  the  presence 
of  minute,  spherical  granular  cells,  like  white-blood  globules,  it  be- 
tokens active  suppuration  of  the  kidney  tubes.  In  other  cases  the 
casts  are  rendered  opaque  by  entangled  earthy  granules  (carbonate  of 
lime),  or  crystals  of  some  other  urinary  salts.  In  vStill  other  cases 
the  casts  entangle  clear,  refrangent  globules  of  oil  or  fat,  which  may 
imply  fatty  degeneration  of  the  kidneys  or  injury  to  the  spinal  cord. 
The  presence  of  free  pus  giving  a  glairy,  flocculent  appearance  to  the 
urine  is  suggestive  of  inflammation  of  the  urinary  pouch  at  the  com- 
mencement of  the  excretory  duct  (pelvis  of  kidney)  (PL  IX,  fig.  1), 
especially  if  complicated  with  gritty  particles  of  earthy  salts.  This 
condition  is  known  as  pyelitis.  In  the  chronic  cases  swelling  of  the 
legs  or  along  the  lower  surface  of  chest  or  abdomen,  or  within  these 
respective  cavities,  is  a  common  symptom.  So,  also,  stupor  or  coma, 
or  even  convulsions,  may  supervene  from  the  poisonous  action  of 
urea  and  other  waste  or  morbid  products  retained  in  the  blood. 

Treatment. — In  the  treatment  of  acute  nephritis  the  first  consid- 
eration is  the  removal  of  the  cause.  Acrid  or  diuretic  plants  in  the 
feed  must  be  removed,  and  what  of  this  kind  is  present  in  the  stom- 
ach or  bowels  may  be  cleared  away  by  a  moderate  dose  of  castor  or 
olive  oil ;  extensive  surfaces  of  inflammation  that  have  been  blistered 
by  Spanish  flies  must  be  washed  clean  with  soapsuds ;  sprains  of  the 
back  or  loins  must  be  treated  by  soothing  fomentations  or  poultices 
or  by  a  fresh  sheepskin  with  its  fleshy  side  applied  on  the  loins,  and 
the  patient  must  be  kept  in  a  narrow  stall  in  which  it  can  not  turn 
even  its  head.  The  patient  must  be  kept  in  a  warm,  dry  building, 
so  that  the  skin  nuiy  be  kept  active  rather  than  the  kidneys.  Warm 
blanketing  is  equally  important,  or  even  mustard  poultices  over  the 
loins  will  be  useful.     Blisters  of  Spanish  flies,  turpentine,  or  other 


DISEASES    OF    THE    UEINAEY    OEGANS.  125 

agent  which  may  be  absorbed  and  irritate  the  kidneys  must  be 
avoided.  The  aetivei  fever  may  be  checked  by  15  drops  tincture  of 
aconite  every  four  hours  or  by  one-third  ounce  of  acetanilid.  If  pain 
is  very  acute,  1  ounce  of  laudanum  or  2  drams  of  solid  extract  of 
belladonna  will  serve  to  relieve.  When  the  severity  of  the  disease  has 
passed,  a  course  of  tonics  (quinin,  2  drams,  or  gentian  powder,  4 
drams,  daily)  may  be  given.  Diuretics,  too,  may  be  given  cautiously 
at  this  advanced  stage  to  relieve  dropsy  and  give  tone  to  the  kidneys 
and  general  system  (oil  of  turpentine,  2  teaspoonf uls ;  bicarbonate 
of  soda,  1  teaspoonful,  repeated  twice  a  day).  Pure  water  is  essen- 
tial, and  it  should  not  be  given  chilled ;  warm  drinks  are  preferable. 

In  the  chronic  forms  of  kidney  inflammation  the  same  protection 
against  cold  and  similar  general  treatment  are  demanded.  Tonics, 
however,  are  important  to  improve  the  general  health  (phosphate  of 
iron,  2  drams;  powdered  nux  vomica,  20  grains;  powdered  gentian 
root,  4  drams,  dailj'^).  In  some  instances  the  mineral  acids  (nitric 
acid,  60  drops,  or  nitrohydrochloric  acid,  60  drops,  daily)  may  be 
used  with  the  bitters.  Mustard  applied  to  the  loins  in  the  form  of 
a  thin  pulp  made  with  water  and  covered  for  an  hour  with  paper  or 
other  impervious  envelope,  or  water  hotter  than  the  hand  can  bear,  or 
cupping,  may  be  resorted  to  as  a  counterirritant.  In  cupping,  shave 
the  loins,  smear  them  with  lard,  then  take  a  narrow-mouthed  glass, 
expand  the  air  within  by  smearing  its  interior  with  a  few  drops  of 
alcohol,  setting  it  on  fire  and  instantly  pressing  the  mouth  of  the 
vessel  to  the  oiled  portion  of  the  skin.  As  the  air  within  the  vessel 
cools  it  contracts,  tending  to  form  a  partial  vacuum,  and  the  skin, 
charged  with  blood,  is  strongly  drawn  up  within  it.  Several  of  these 
being  applied  at  once,  a  strong  derivation  from  the  affected  kidneys 
is  obtained.  In  no  case  of  inflamed  or  irritable  kidney  should  Span- 
ish flies  or  oil  of  turpentine  be  used  upon  the  skin. 

PARASITES  OF  THE  KIDNEY. 

As  the  kidney  is  the  usual  channel  by  which  the  bacteria  leave  the 
system,  this  organ  is  liable  to  be  implicated  when  microphytes  exist 
in  the  blood,  and  congestions  and  blood  extravasions  are  produced. 
In  anthrax,  southern  cattle  fever  (Texas  fever),  and  other  such 
affections  bloody  urine  is  the  consequence.  Of  the  larger  parasites 
attacking  the  kidney  may  be  specially  named  the  cystic  form  of  the 
echinococcus  tapeworm  of  the  dog,  the  cystic  form  of  the  unarmed  or 
beef  tapeworm  of  man,  the  diving  bladderworm — the  cystic  form  of 
the  marginate  tapeworm  of  the  dog,  and  the  giant  strongyle — the 
largest  of  the  rounchvorms.  These  give  rise  to  general  symptoms  of 
kidney  disease,  but  the  true  source  of  the  trouble  is  likely  to  be  de- 
tected only  if  the  heads  or  booklets  of  the  tapeworm  or  the  eggs  of 
the  roundworm  are  found  on  microscopical  examination  of  the  urine. 


126       .  DISEASES   OP   CATTLE. 

TUMORS  OF  THE  KIDNEY   (HYPERTROPHY  OR  ATROPHY). 

The  kidney  may  be  the  seat  of  cancerous  or  simple  tumors,  and  it 
may  be  unnaturally  enlarged  or  reduced  in  size,  but  though  there  may 
be  signs  of  urinary  disorder  the  true  nature  of  the  disease  is  seldom 
manifest  until  after  death.  The  passing  of  blood  and  of  large  multi- 
nucleated cells  in  the  urine  (to  be  detected  under  the  microscope) 
may  betray  the  existence  of  an  ulcerated  cancer  of  the  kidne3\  The 
presence  of  cancerous  enlargement  of  (superficial)  lymphatic  glands 
may  further  assist  and  confirm  the  decision. 

RETENTION  OF  URINE. 

Inability  to  pass  urine  may  come  from  any  one  of  three  condi- 
tions— first,  spasm  of  the  neck  of  the  bladder;  second,  paralysis  of 
the  body  of  the  bladder;  third,  obstruction  of  the  channel  of  outlet 
by  a  stone  (calculus)  (see  PI.  XI)  or  other  obstacle. 

In  spasm  of  the  neck  of  the  hladder  the  male  animal  may  stand 
with  the  tail  slightly  raised  and  making  rhythmical  contractions  of 
the  muscle  beneath  the  anus  (accelerator  urinse)  (see  PI.  IX,  fig.  2), 
but  without  passing  a  drop  of  liquid.  In  the  female  the  hind  legs 
are  extended,  widely  parted,  and  the  back  is  arched  as  if  to  urinate, 
but  the  effort  is  vain.  If  the  oiled  hand  is  introduced  into  the  rectum 
or  vagina  in  the  early  stages  of  the  affection,  the  bladder  may  be  felt 
beneath  partially  filled,  but  not  overdistended  with  liquid,  and  its 
neck  or  mouth  firm  and  rigid.  In  the  more  advanced  stages  of  the 
affection  the  organ  is  felt  as  a  great,  tense,  elastic  bag,  extending 
forward  into  the  abdomen.  In  this  condition  the  overdistended  mus- 
cular coat  of  the  bladder  has  lost  its  power  of  contraction,  so  that 
true  paralysis  has  set  in,  the  muscle  closing  the  mouth  of  the  sac 
alone  retaining  its  contractile  power. 

In  faralysis  of  the  body  of  the  hladder  attention  is  rarely  drawn  to 
the  urinary  disorder  until  the  bladder  has  been  distended  to  full 
repletion  and  is  almost  ready  to  give  way  by  rupture  and  to  allow 
the  escape  of  the  contained  liquid  into  the  abdomen.  Overdistention 
is  the  most  common  cause  of  the  paralysis,  yet  it  may  occur  from  in- 
flammation of  the  muscular  wall  of  the  bladder,  or  even  from  injury 
to  the  terminal  part  of  the  spinal  marrow.  In  this  last  condition, 
however,  the  tail  is  liable  to  be  powerless,  and  the  neck  of  the  blad- 
der may  also  be  paralyzed,  so  that  the  urine  dribbles  aAvay  continu- 
ously. 

Causes. — Among  the  causes  of  spasm  of  the  neck  of  the  bladder 
may  be  named  the  lodgment  of  small  stones  or  gravel,  the  feeding  on 
irritant  diuretics  (see  "  Bloody  urine,"  p.  117,  or  "  Nephritis,"  p.  121), 
the  enforced  retention  of  urine  while  at  work  or  during  a  jiainful  or 
difficult  parturition.    The  irritation  attendant  on  inflammation  of  the 


DISEASES    OF    THE    URINARY    ORGANS.  127 

mucous  membrane  of  the  bladder  may  be  a  further  cause  of  spasms  of 
the  neck,  as  may  also  be  inflammation  of  the  channel  (urethra)  back 
of  the  neck.  Extensive  applications  of  Spanish  flies  to  the  skin,  the 
abuse  of  diuretics,  and  the  occurrence  of  indigestion  and  spasms  of 
the  bowels  are  further  causes.  So  long  as  spasmodic  colic  is  unre- 
lieved, retention  of  water  from  spasm  of  the  neck  of  the  bladder 
usually  persists. 

Treatment. — Treatment  depends  largely  on  the  cause.  In  indi- 
gestion the  irritant  contents  of  the  bowels  must  be  got  rid  of  by 
laxatives  and  injections  of  warm  water ;  Spanish-fly  blisters  must  be 
washed  from  the  surface;  a  prolonged  and  too  active  exertion  must 
be  intermitted. »  The  spasm  may  be  relaxed  by  injecting  one-half 
ounce  of  solid  extract  of  belladonna  in  water  into  the  rectum  or  by  a 
solution  of  tobacco.  Chloroform  or  ether  may  be  given  by  inhalation, 
or  chloral  hydrate  (1  ounce)  may  be  given  in  w^ater  by  the  mouth. 
Fomentations  of  warm  water  may  be  made  over  the  loins  and  between 
the  thighs,  and  the  oiled  hand  inserted  into  the  rectum  may  press 
moderately  on  the  anterior  part  of  the  bladder,  which  can  be  felt  as 
an  elastic  fluctuating  bag  of  an  oval  shape  just  beneath. 

All  other  measures  failing,  the  liquid  must  be  drawn  off  through  a 
tube  (catheter).  This  is,  however,  exceedingly  difficult,  alike  in  male 
and  female,  and  we  can  not  expect  an  amateur  to  succeed  in  accom- 
plishing it.  In  the  cow  the  opening  into  the  bladder  is  found  in  the 
median  line  of  the  floor  of  the  generative  entrance,  about  4  inches  in 
front  of  the  external  opening,  but  it  is  flanked  on  either  side  by  a 
blind  pouch,  into  which  the  catheter  will  pass,  in  ninety-nine  cases 
out  of  a  hundred,  in  the  hands  of  any  but  the  most  skilled  operator. 
In  the  bull  or  steer  the  penis,  when  retracted  into  its  sheath,  is  bent 
upon  itself  like  the  letter  S,  just  above  the  scrotum  and  testicles  (see 
PI.  IX,  fig.  2),  and  unless  this  bend  is  effaced  by  extending  the  organ 
forward  out  of  its  sheath  it  is  quite  impossible  to  pass  a  catheter 
beyond  this  point.  When,  however,  by  the  presentation  of  a  female, 
the  animal  can  be  tempted  to  protrude  the  penis,  so  that  it  can  be 
seized  and  extended,  or  when  it  can  be  manipulated  forward  out  of 
the  sheath,  it  becomes  possible  to  pass  a  catheter  of  small  caliber 
(one-third  inch  or  under)  onward  into  the  bladder.  Youatt  advised 
laying  open  the  sheath  so  as  to  reach  and  extend  the  penis,  and  others 
have  advocated  opening  the  uretha  in  the  space  between  the  thighs 
or  just  beneath  the  anus,  but  such  formidable  operations  are  beyond 
the  stock  owner.  The  incision  of  the  narrow  uretha  through  the  great 
thickness  of  muscular  and  erectile  bleeding  tissue  just  beneath  the 
anus  is  especially  an  operation  of  extreme  delicacy  and  difficulty. 
Drawing  the  liquid  through  the  tube  of  an  aspirator  is  another 
possible  resort  for  the  professional  man.  The  delicate  needle  of  the 
aspirator  is  inserted  in  such  cases  through  the  floor  of  the  vagina  and 


128  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

upper  wall  of  the  bladder  in  the  female,  or  through  the  floor  of  the 
rectum  (last  gut)  and  roof  of  the  bladder  in  the  male,  or  finally 
through  the  lower  and  back  part  of  the  abdominal  wall,  just  in  front 
of  the  bones  of  the  pelvis  (pubic  bones),  thence  through  the  lower 
and  anterior  part  of  the  bladder  near  its  blind  anterior  end.  After 
relief  has  been  obtained  the  administration  of  belladonna  in  2-dram 
doses  daily  for  several  days  will  tend  to  prevent  a  recurrence  of  the 
retention. 

^Yhen  the  body  of  the  bladder  has  become  benumbed  or  paralyzed 
by  over  distention,  we  may  seek  to  restore  its  tone  by  doses  of  one- 
half  a  dram  of  powdered  mix  vomica  repeated  daily,  and  by  mus- 
tard plaster  applied  over  the  loins,  on  the  back  piirt  of  the  belly 
inferiorly,  or  between  the  thighs.  Small  doses  (2  drams)  of  balsam 
of  copaiba  are  sometimes  useful  in  imparting  tone  to  the  partly 
paralyzed  organ. 

INCONTINENCE  OF  URINE  (PALSY  OF  THE  NECK  OF  THE 

BLADDER). 

This  may  occur  from  disease  or  injury  to  the  posterior  part  of  the 
spinal  cord  or  from  broken  back,  and  in  these  cases  the  tail,  and  per- 
haps the  hind  limbs,  are  liable  to  be  paralyzed.  In  this  case  the  urine 
dribbles  away  constantly,  and  the  oiled  hand  in  the  vagina  or  rectum 
w^ill  feel  the  half-filled  and  flaccid  bladder  beneath  and  may  easily 
empty  it  by  pressure. 

Ti^eatment. — Treatment  is  only  successful  when  the  cause  of  the 
trouble  can  be  remedied.  After  these  (sprains  of  the  back,  etc.)  have 
recovered,  blisters  (mustard)  on  the  loins,  the  lower  part  of  the 
abdomen,  or  between  the  thighs  may  be  resorted  to  with  success. 
Two  drams  of  copaiba  or  of  solid  extract  of  belladonna  or  2  grains 
Spanish  flies  daily  may  serve  to  restore  the  lost  tone.  These  failing, 
the  use  of  electric  currents  may  still  prove  successful. 

URINARY  CALCULI  (STONE  OR  GRAVEL). 

Stone  or  gravel  consists  of  hard  bodies  mainly  made  up  of  the  solid 
earthy  constituents  of  the  urine  which  have  crystallized  out  of  that 
liquid  at  some  part  of  the  urinary  passage,  and  have  remained  as 
small  particles  (gravel),  or  have  concreted  into  large  masses  (stone, 
calculus).  (See  PI.  XI,  figs.  1,  2,  3.)  In  cattle  it  is  no  uncommon 
thing  to  find  them  distending  the  practically  microscopic  tubes  in 
the  red  substance  of  the  kidney,  having  been  deposited  from  the 
urine  in  the  solid  form  almost  as  soon  as  that  liquid  has  been 
separated  from  the  blood.  These  stones  appear  as  white  objects 
on  the  red  ground  formed  by  cutting  sections  of  the  kidney,  and 
are  essentially  products  of  the  dry  feed  of  winter,  and  are  most 


DISEASES    OF    THE    URINARY    ORGANS.  129 

common  in  working  oxen,  which  are  called  upon  to  exhale  more 
water  from  the  lungs  and  skin  than  are  the  slop-fed  and  inactive 
cows.  Little  water  being  introduced  into  the  body  with  the  feed 
and  considerable  being  expelled  with  the  breath  and  perspiration 
in  connection  with  the  active  life,  the  urine  becomes  small  in 
amount,  but  having  to  carry  out  all  waste  material  from  the  tissues 
and  the  tissue-forming  feed  it  becomes  so  charged  with  solids  that 
it  is  ready  to  deposit  them  on  the  slightest  disturbance.  If,  there- 
fore, a  little  of  the  water  of  such  concentrated  urine  is  reabsorbed  at 
any  point  of  the  urinary  passages  the  remainder  is  no  longer  able 
to  hold  the  solids  in  solution,  and  they  are  at  once  precipitated  in 
the  solid  form  as  gravel  or  commencing  stone.  In  cattle,  on  the 
other  hand,  which  are  kept  at  pasture  in  summer,  or  which  are  fed 
liberally  on  roots,  potatoes,  pumpkins,  apples,  or  ensilage  in  winter, 
this  concentrated  condition  of  the  urine  is  not  induced,  and  under 
such  circumstances,  therefore,  the  formation  of  stone  is  practically 
unknown.  Nothing  more  need  be  said  to  show  the  controlling  influ- 
ence of  dry  feeding  in  producing  gravel  and  of  a  watery  ration  in 
preventing  it.  Calculus  in  cattle  is  essentially  a  disease  of  winter 
and  of  such  cattle  as  are  denied  succulent  feed  and  are  confined  to 
dry  fodder  as  their  exclusive  ration.  Wliile  there  are  exceptions, 
they  are  so  rare  that  they  do  not  invalidate  this  general  rule.  It 
is  true  that  stone  in  the  kidney  or  bladder  is  often  found  in  the 
summer  or  in  animals  feeding  at  the  time  on  a  more  or  less  succu- 
lent ration,  yet  such  masses  usually  date  back  to  a  former  period 
when  the  animals  were  restricted  to  a  dry  ration. 

In  this  connection  is  should  be  noted  that  a  great  drain  of  water 
from  the  system  by  any  other  channel  than  the  kidneys  predisposes 
to  the  production  of  gravel  or  stone.  In  case  of  profuse  diarrhea, 
for  example,  or  of  excessive  secretion  of  milk,  there  is  a  correspond- 
ing diminution  of  the  water  of  the  blood,  and  as  the  whole  quan- 
tity of  the  blood  is  thus  decreased  and  as  the  urine  secreted  is 
largely  influenced  by  the  fullness  of  the  blood  vessels  and  the  pres- 
sure exerted  upon  their  walls  from  within,  it  follows  that  with  this 
decrease  of  the  mass  of  the  blood  and  the  lessening  of  its  pressure 
outward  there  will  be  a  corresponding  decrease  of  urine.  The  waste 
of  the  tissues,  however,  goes  on  as  before,  and  if  the  waste  matter  is 
passed  out  through  the  kidnej's  it  must  be  in  a  more  concentrated 
solution,  and  the  more  concentrated  the  urine  the  greater  the  danger 
that  the  solids  will  be  deposited  as  small  crystals  or  calculi. 

Again,  the  concentrated  condition  of  the  urine  which  predisposes 

to  such  deposits  is  favored  by  the  quantity  of  lime  salts  that  may  be 

present  in  the  water  drunk  by  the  animal.     Water  that  contains  20 

or  30  grains  of  carbonate  or  sulphate  of  lime  to  the  gallon  must  con- 

33071°— 16 9 


130  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

tribute  a  large  addition  of  solids  to  the  blood  and  urine  as  compared 
with  soft  waters  from  which  lime  is  absent.  In  this  connection  it  is 
a  remarkable  fact  that  stone  and  gravel  in  the  domesticated  herbivora 
are  notoriously  prevalent  on  many  limestone  soils,  as  on  the  limestone 
formations  of  central  and  western  Xew  York,  Pennsylvania,  Ohio, 
and  Michigan ;  on  the  calcareous  formations  of  Norfolk,  Suffolk,  Der- 
byshire, Shropshire,  and  Gloucestershire,  in  England;  in  Landes  in 
France,  and  around  Munich  in  Bavaria.  It  does  not  follow  that  the 
abundance  of  lime  in  the  water  and  fodder  is  the  main  cause  of  the 
calculi,  as  other  poisons  which  are  operative  in  the  same  districts 
in  causing  goiter  in  both  man  and  animal  probably  contribute  to  the 
trouble,  jet  the  excess  of  earthy  salts  in  the  drinking  water  can 
hardly  fail  to  add  to  the  saturation  of  both  blood  and  urine,  and 
thereb}'^  to  favor  the  preciptation  of  the  urinary  solids  from  their 
state  of  solution. 

The  known  results  of  feeding  cattle  a  generous  or  forcing  ration 
in  which  phosphate  of  lime  is  present  to  excess  adds  additional  force 
to  the  view  just  advanced.  In  the  writer's  experience,  the  Second 
Duke  of  Oneida,  a  magnificent  product  of  his  world-famed  family, 
died  as  the  result  of  a  too  liberal  allowance  of  wheat  bran,  fed  with 
the  view  of  still  further  improving  the  bone  and  general  form  of 
the  Duchess  strain  of  Shorthorns.  Lithotomy  was  performed  and 
a  number  of  stones  removed  from  the  bladder  and  urethra,  but  the 
patient  succumbed  to  an  inflammation  of  the  bowels,  induced  by  the 
violent  purgatives  given  before  the  writer  arrived,  under  the  mis- 
taken idea  that  the  straining  had  been  caused  by  intestinal  impac- 
tion. In  this  case  not  only  the  Second  Duke  of  Oneida,  but  the  other 
males  of  the  herd  as  well,  had  the  tufts  of  hairs  at  the  outlet  of  the 
sheath  encased  in  hard,  cylindroid  sheaths  of  urinary  salts,  pre- 
cipitated from  the  liquid  as  it  ran  over  them.  The  tufts  were  in 
reality  resolved  into  a  series  of  hard,  rollerlike  bodies,  more  or  less 
constricted  at  intervals,  as  if  beaded. 

"When  it  is  stated  that  the  ash  of  the  whole  grain  of  wheat  is  but  3 
per  cent,  while  the  ash  of  wheat  bran  is  7.3  per  cent,  and  that  in  the 
case  of  the  former  46.38  per  cent  of  the  ash  is  phosphoric  acid,  and  in 
that  of  the  latter  50  per  cent,  it  can  easily  be  understood  how  a  too 
liberal  use  of  wheat  bran  should  prove  dangerous  if  fed  dry.  The 
following  table  shows  the  relative  proportion  of  ash  and  phosphoric 
acid  in  Avheat  bran  and  in  some  common  farm  seeds: 


DISEASES    OF    THE    URINARY    ORGANS.  131 

AsJi  and  phosphoric  acid  in  bran  and  some  common  farm,  seeds. 


Kind  of  grain. 


Ash. 


Phosphoric 
acid  ia  ash. 


Phosphoric 
acid  in  tlie 
entire  feed. 


Wheat  bran 

Wheat,  grain 

Oats,  grain 

Barley,  grain 

Bean,  grain 

Peas,  grain 

Tare,  grain 

Indian  com,  grain 
Rye,  grain 


Per  cent. 
7.3 
3 

2.50 
3.10 
3.10 
2.75 
3 

1.5 
1.6 


Per  cent. 
50 

46.38 
26.5 
39.6 
31.9 
34.8 
36.2 


Per  cent. 

3.65 

1.3914 
.6625 

1. 2276 
.9864 
.957 

1.0S6 


.6384 


Wheat  bran,  it  will  be  observed,  contains  three  times  as  much 
phosphoric  acid  as  is  found  in  any  of  the  other  grains,  and  four 
times  as  much  as  oats,  beans,  peas,  or  rye ;  so  that  if  fed  in  excess  it 
will  readily  overcharge  the  urine  with  phosphates. 

There  is  another  point  to  be  considered,  however,  in  estimating 
this  danger.  Wlieat  bran  contains  a  far  greater  quantity  of  albu- 
minoids and  other  nitrogen-containing  constituents  than  the  common 
grains  (these  being  made  up  mainly  of  starch,  which  contains  no 
nitrogen)  ;  and,  all  nitrogen-bearing  products  contained  in  the  blood 
and  tissues  being  expelled  from  the  body  mainly  through  the  kidnej's 
in  the  form  of  urea  and  (in  cattle)  hippuric  acid,  it  follows  that  the 
excess  of  urea  formed  when  such  feed  is  consumed  must  load  the 
urine  with  solids  and  bring  it  constantly  nearer  to  the  point  of  satu- 
ration, wdien  such  solids  (or  the  least  soluble  of  them)  must  be 
deposited. 

The  following  table  will  show  the  relative  amounts  of  the  nitrogen- 
bearing  products  in  wheat  bran  and  some  of  our  common  grains : 

Nitrogenous  matter  in  toheat  bran  and  some  common  farm  grains. 


Kind  of  grain. 


Wheat  bran . 
Wheat,  grain 
Barley,  grain 
Oats,  grain . . 
Rye,  grain . . , 
Indian  com . , 


Albumi 
noids  (ni- 
troge- 
nous). 


Per  cent. 
16.1 
12.5 
12.4 
11.8 
10.6 
10.1 


Woody  fiber 
(nitroge- 
nous.) 


Per  cent. 
8 

1.8 
2.7 
9.5 
1.7 
1.7 


Total  nitrog- 
enous-bear- 
ing constit- 
uents. 


Per  cent. 

24.1 
14.3 
15.1 
21.3 
12.3 
11.8 


It  will  be  observed  that,  with  the  exception  of  oats,  none  of  the 
grains  contain  more  than  two-thirds  of  the  nitrogenous  material 


132  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

present  in  the  wheat  bran,  while  in  the  case  of  rye  and  maize  there  is 
practically  but  one-half.  Even  in  the  case  of  oats  the  albuminoids, 
which  are  the  more  digestible  principles,  and  therefore  those  that 
are  the  most  easily  and  speedily  converted,  into  urea,  are  present  only 
to  the  amount  of  two-thirds  of  that  which  exists  in  the  wheat  bran. 
With  such  an  excess  of  ash,  of  phosphates,  and  of  nitrogenous  (urea- 
forming)  constituents  in  wheat  bran,  its  tendency  to  favor  the  forma- 
tion of  calculi  is  fully  explained.  It  must  not,  however,  be  inferred 
that  wheat  bran  is  not  a  valuable  feedstuff.  The  inference  is  only 
that  it  should  be  fed  with  an  abundance  of  water,  as  a  sloppy  mash, 
or  in  combination  with  an  abundance  of  roots,  potatoes,  pumpkins, 
or  other  succulent  aliment. 

In  this  connection  the  presence  of  magnesia  in  the  feed  or  water 
must  be  named  as  favoring  calculous  formations  in  the  urinary  pas- 
sages. The  explanation  is  that  while  the  phosphate  of  magnesia 
thrown  out  in  the  urine  is  soluble  in  Avater,  the  compound  phosphate 
of  ammonia  and  magnesia  is  insoluble,  and,  accordingly,  if  at  any 
time  ammonia  is  introduced  into  urine  containing  the  phosphate  of 
magnesia  there  is  instantly  formed  the  ammonio-magnesium  phos- 
phate, which  is  as  promptly  deposited  in  the  solid  form.  The  com- 
mon source  of  ammonia  in  such  cases  is  from  decomposition  of  the 
urea  in  fermenting  urine.  In  order  to  produce  this  a  ferment  is  nec- 
essary, however,  and  therefore,  as  an  additional  prerequisite,  the 
presence  of  bacteria,  or  fungi,  in  the  urine  is  essential.  These  fer- 
ments may  make  their  way  from  without  along  the  urinary  passage 
(urethra ) ,  and  their  propagation  in  the  bladder  is  greatly  favored  by 
the  prolonged  retention  of  urine,  as  in  case  of  spasm  of  the  neck  of 
the  bladder  or  obstruction  by  an  already  existing  stone.  Another 
mode  of  entrance  of  the  ferment  is  an  unclean  catheter  used  to  draw 
the  urine.  Still  another  is  the  elimination  through  the  kidneys  of 
the  bacteria  of  infectious  diseases,  or  of  such  as,  without  producing 
a  general  infection,  yet  determine  fermentation  in  the  urine.  The 
precipitation  is  favored  not  only  by  the  production  of  ammonia,  but 
also  by  the  formation  of  viscid  (colloid)  products  of  fermentation. 
In  this  sense  bacteria  are  most  important  factors  in  causing  gritty 
deposits  in  the  urine. 

Another  insoluble  salt  which  enters  largely  into  the  composition  of 
many  urinary  calculi  of  the  ox  is  carbonate  of  lime.  This  is  derived 
mainlj^  from  the  lime  in  the  feed  and  water  and  from  the  carbon 
dioxid  formed  by  the  oxidation  of  the  organic  acids  in  the  fodder. 
These  organic  acids,  being  composed  of  carbon,  hydrogen,  and  oxygen 
(without  nitrogen),  are  resolved  by  the  addition  of  oxygen  into 
carbon  dioxid  (COo)  and  water  (H^^O).  The  carbon  dioxid  unites 
with  the  lime  in  the  blood  to  form  carbonate  of  lime,  and  in  this 
state  passes  into  the  urine.     Now,  carbonate  of  lime  is  soluble  in 


DISEASES    OF    THE    URINAEY    ORGANS. 


133 


water  containing  free  or  uncombined  carbon  dioxid,but  is  precipitated 
whenever  the  latter  is  withdrawn.  It  is  only  necessary,  therefore, 
to  have  in  the  urine  sufficient  lime  or  other  available  base  to  unite 
with  all  the  free  carbon  dioxid  in  order  to  bring  about  the  precipi- 
tation of  the  dissolved  carbonate  of  lime  in  the  solid,  crystallized 
form;  hence  it  is  that,  of  all  sediments  in  the  urine  of  herbivora, 
this  is  the  most  frequent  and  usually  the  most  abundant. 

A  less  common  constituent  of  urinary  calculi  is  the  insoluble  oxalate 
of  lime.  In  this  case  the  lime  is  derived  as  before  from  the  feed  or 
water,  or  both,  while  the  oxalic  acid  is  a  product  of  the  oxidation  of 
organic  acids  of  the  feed,  less  oxygen  having  been  used  than  in  the 
formation  of  carbon  dioxid.  The  final  product  of  the  complete 
oxidation  of  these  acids  is  carbon  dioxid,  but  when  less  oxygen  is 
furnished,  owing  to  some  disease  of  the  lungs  or  a  disease  of  the  nerve 
centers,  which  lessens  the  activity  of  the  breathing,  then  oxalic  acid 
may  be  produced.  If  this  oxalic  acid  comes  into  contact  with  lime, 
it  is  instantly  precipitated  as  crystals  of  oxalate  of  lime. 

Another  inorganic  substance  at  times  found  in  urinary  calculi  is 
silica  (SiOa).  This  contributes  largely  to  giving  stiffness  to  the 
stems  of  growing  plants,  and  in  most  of  our  cereals  and  grasses  makes 
up  a  large  proportion  of  the  ashes  of  the  burned  plant.  It  is  found  in 
the  soluble  form  in  combination  as  silicate  of  potash,  but  at  times  is 
displaced  by  oxalic  or  other  acid  and  then  appears  as  gritty,  sandy 
particles  in  the  stem.  This  gritty,  insoluble  silica  is  especially  notice- 
able among  the  horsetails  {E quisetcecece) ^  bamboos,  and  sedges.  The 
per  cent  of  silica  in  the  ash  of  several  common  fodder  plants  is  given 
below : 

Silica  in  asJi  of  various  fodder  plants. 


Ash  of- 


Silica. 


Ash  of — 


Si'aca. 


Wheat  straw. . 
Oats  and  husk 

Oat  straw 

Barley  straw. . 
Eye  straw 


Per  cent. 
67.6 
38.6 
35.4 
73.1 
64.4 


Rye-grass  hay 
Wheat  chalT., 

Oat  chaff 

Barley  awn. . 


Per  cent. 
64.57 
81.2 
59.9 

70.7 


It  is  only  soluble  silica  that  is  taken  up  into  the  system,  and  it 
is  in  this  form  (usually  as  silicate  of  potash  or  soda)  that  it  enters 
the  urine,  but  all  that  is  wanted  to  precipitate  it  in  crystalline  form 
as  a  gritty  sand  is  the  presence  of  oxalic  or  other  acid  having  a 
stronger  affinity  for  its  base  (potash  or  soda). 

Other  conditions,  however,  enter  largely  into  the  causation  of 
stone,  or  gravel.  A  high  density  of  urine  resulting  from  a  highly 
saturated  condition  is  often  present  for  a  length  of  time  without 


134  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

uny  precipitation  of  solid  materials.  Urea  and  carbonates  may  be 
I^resent  in  excess,  the  feed  may  be  given  dry,  and  di'inking  water 
may  be  deficient  in  quantity  without  any  deposition  of  stone  or 
gravel.  In  such  cases,  the  presence  of  noncrystalline  organic  matter 
in  the  urine  becomes  an  exciting  cause.  Eainey  and  Ord  have 
shown  experimentally  that  colloid  (noncrystallizable)  bodies  like 
mucus,  epithelial  cells,  albumin,  pus,  blood,  hyaline  casts  of  the 
kidney  tubes,  etc.,  not  only  determine  the  precipitation  of  crystal- 
lizable  salts  from  a  strong  solution,  but  they  determine  the  precipi- 
tation in  the  form  of  globular  masses,  or  minute  spheres,  which, 
by  further  similar  accessions,  become  stones,  or  calculi,  of  various 
sizes.  The  salts  that  are  deposited  by  mere  chemical  reaction  with- 
out the  intervention  of  colloids  appear  in  the  form  of  sharply  defined 
angular  crystals,  and  hence  the  rough,  jagged  crystals  of  oxalate  of 
lime  or  ammonia-magnesium  phosphate.  Heat  intensifies  the  action 
of  the  colloids  in  causing  precipitation  of  the  dissolved  salts,  so  that 
the  temperature  of  the  kidneys  and  bladder  constitute  favorable 
conditions.  Colloids  that  are  undergoing  decomposition  are  also 
specially  powerful,  so  that  the  presence  of  bacteria  or  fungi  causing 
fermentation  is  an  important  factor. 

In  looking,  therefore,  for  the  immediate  causes  of  urinary  calculi 
we  must  accord  a  high  place  to  all  those  conditions  which  determine 
the  presence  of  excess  of  mucus,  albumin,  pus,  blood,  kidney  casts, 
blood-coloring  matter,  etc.,  in  the  urine.  A  catarrhal  inflammation 
of  the  pelvis  of  the  kidney,  of  the  ureter,  or  of  the  bladder,  generat- 
ing excess  of  mucus  or  pus;  inflammation  of  the  kidnej^s,  causing 
the  discharge  of  blood,  albumin,  or  hyaline  casts  into  the  urinary 
passages;  inflammation  of  the  liver,  lungs,  or  other  distant  organ, 
resulting  in  the  escape  of  albumin  in  the  urine;  disorders  of  the 
liver  or  of  the  blood-forming  functions,  resulting  in  hematuria  or 
hemoglobinuria;  sprains  or  other  injuries  to  the  back,  or  disease 
of  the  spinal  marrow,  which  cause  the  escape  of  blood  with  the 
urine;  the  presence  in  the  bladder  of  a  bacterial  ferment,  which 
determines  the  decomposition  of  the  mucus  and  urea,  the  evolution 
of  ammonia  and  the  consequent  destruction  of  the  protecting  cel- 
lular (epithelia)  lining  of  the  bladder,  or  the  irritation  caused  by 
the  presence  of  an  already  formed  calculus,  may  produce  the  colloid 
or  uncrystallizable  body  that  proves  so  effective  in  the  precipitation 
of  stone  or  gravel.  It  has  long  been  known  that  calculi  almost  in- 
variably form  around  any  foreign  body  introduced  into  the  kidney 
or  bladder,  and  I  have  seen  a  large,  calculous  mass  surrounding  a 
splinter  of  an  arrow  that  had  penetrated  and  broken  off  in  the  body 
of  a  deer.  The  explanation  is  now  satisfactory — the  foreign  body 
carries  in  with  it  bacteria,  which  act  as  ferments  upon  the  urine 


DISEASES    OF    THE    URINARY    ORGANS.  135 

and  mucus  in  addition  to  the  mechanical  injury  caused  by  its  pres- 
ence. If  such  a  body  has  been  introduced  through  the  solid  tissues, 
there  is,  in  addition,  the  presence  of  the  blood  and  lymph  derived 
from  the  wounded  structures, 

CLASSIFICATION    OF  URINARY  CALCULI. 

Urinary  calculi  are  most  conveniently  divided  according  to  the 
locality  in  which  they  are  found.  Thus  we  find  first  renal  calculi, 
formed  in  the  kidney  (PI.  XI,  fig.  1),  and  which  for  cattle  must  be 
again  divided  into  calculi  of  the  uriniferous  tubes  and  calculi  of  the 
pelvis.  The  second  class  are  named  ureteral  calculi  because  they  are 
found  in  the  duct  leading  from  the  kidney  to  the  bladder  (ureter). 
The  third  class  are  the  vesical  calculi,  from  the  bladder  or  vesicle  in 
which  they  are  found.  The  fourth  class  are  the  urethral  calculi,  and 
are  found  in  the  duct  leading  outward  from  the  bladder  through 
the  penis  (urethra).  The  fifth  and  last  class  are  the  preputial  cal- 
culi, since  they  are  found  within  the  sheath  of  the  penis  (prepuce). 

Calculi  may  also  be  classed  according  to  their  chemical  composition 
and  this  has  the  advantage  of  suggesting  the  special  cause  of  each  as 
found  in  the  feed,  water,  soil,  or  general  conditions  of  health.  This 
classification  affords  no  guide  to  their  location  or  symptoms,  as  cal- 
culi of  the  same  chemical  composition  may  be  formed  at  any  part  of 
the  urinary  passages,  as  those  formed  in  the  kidney  may  pass  on 
through  all  the  various  passages  outward,  unless  it  is  found  at  any 
point  of  their  progress  that  they  have  grown  so  large  that  the  passage 
will  not  admit  them.  The  following  are  among  the  concretions  found 
in  the  various  parts : 

(1)  Coralline  calculi. — These  are  of  a  dull- white  color  ajid  irregu- 
lar surface,  like  coral.  They  are  made  up  of  hard  and  resistant  lay- 
ers evenly  deposited  around  a  central  nucleus.  (PI.  XI,  fig.  3.) 
Their  specific  gravity  is  1,760,  water  being  1,000,  and  they  contain 
74  per  cent  of  carbonate  of  lime  with  some  carbonate  of  magnesia, 
organic  matter,  and  a  trace  of  carbonate  of  iron.  Yellowish-white, 
smooth,  round  calculi  of  the  same  chemical  composition  are  met  with. 

(2)  Pearly  calculi. — These  are  more  frequent  than  the  first-named 
variety.  They  are  very  hard  and  smooth  on  the  surface,  reflecting  a 
play  of  various  colors  after  the  fashion  of  a  pearl.  This  peculiarity 
appears  to  be  caused  by  the  thinness  and  semitransparency  of  the 
supposed  layers.  They  have  a  specific  gravity  of  2,109  to  2,351,  and 
nearly  the  same  chemical  composition  as  the  coralline  variety.  Gold- 
ing  Bird  found  a  specimen  of  this  kind  formed  of  carbonate  of  lime 
and  organic  matter  only. 

(3)  Green  calculi  {metalloid  calculi). — These  are  usually  small  and 
numerous,  as  they  are  exceedingly  common.    They  are  of  a  very  hard 


136  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

consistency,  and  have  a  clear-polished,  greenish  surface  of  almost 
metallic  brilliancy.  They  have  a  specific  gi-avity  of  2.301  and  a  com- 
position almost  identical  with  the  second  variety. 

(4)  White  calculi. — Pure  white,  smooth,  lustrous  calculi  are  rare. 
They  have  a  specific  gravity  of  2.307,  and  contain  as  much  as  92  per 
cent  of  carbonate  of  lime  with  carbonate  of  magnesia  and  organic 
matter. 

(5)  Ammonio-rndgnesium  calculi. — These  are  of  a  grayish  color 
and  a  very  rough,  crj^stalline  surface,  which  proves  very  irritating  to 
the  mucous  membrane.  They  have  a  specific  gravity  of  1.109  to 
1.637,  and  are  composed  chiefly  of  ammonio-magnesium  phosphate, 
oxalate  of  lime,  and  organic  matter,  with  a  little  carbonate  of  lime 
and  magnesia. 

(6)  Siliceous  calculi. — These  are  clear,  smooth,  and  hard,  and  usu- 
ally spherical.  They  have  a  specific  gravity  of  1.265  to  1.376,  and 
contain  57  per  cent  of  silica  with  carbonates  of  iron  and  magnesia, 
organic  matter,  and  traces  of  iron.  In  other  specimens  of  siliceous 
calculi  there  was  a  specific  gravity  of  3.122,  and  there  was  79  to  85 
per  cent  of  carbonate  of  lime  together  with  carbonate  of  magnesia, 
and  iron,  silica,  and  organic  matter.  Others  are  almost  exclusively 
made  of  silica. 

(7)  Oxalate  of  lime  calculi  {?nulberry  calculi)  (PI.  XI,  fig.  2). — 
These  are  characterized  by  their  extremely  rough,  angular  surface, 
formed  by  the  octahedral  crystals  of  oxalate  of  lime.  Their  specific 
gravity  may  be  3.441,  and  they  contain  oxalate  of  lime  to  the  extent  of 
81  per  cent,  together  with  carbonates  of  lime  and  magnesia  and 
organic  matter. 

(8)  Gravel  {pultaceous  deposits). — Simple  crystals  may  be  met 
with  at  any  point  from  the  kidneys  to  the  external  opening  at  the 
end  of  the  prepuce  (sheath),  and  they  may  appear  singly,  as  crys- 
tals, or  they  may  accumulate  in  masses  of  fine  spherical  crystals 
almost  like  dirty  powdered  chalk  suspended  in  water.  In  the  ox 
this  is  especially  common  as  a  collection  in  the  sheath,  distending 
that  into  a  soft,  doughy  swelling. 

FORMS   OF   CALCULI   IN   DIFFERENT    SITUATIONS. 

Apart  from  the  rough  crystalline  surfaces  of  the  calculi  of  oxalate 
of  lime  and  ammonio-magnesium  phosphate,  the  general  tendency  is 
to  a  smooth,  round  outline.  At  times,  however,  they  show  more  or 
less  flattening  w^ith  rounded  angular  edges,  caused  by  the  contact 
and  mutual  friction  of  two  calculi.  Sometimes  two  or  more  stones 
lying  together  become  united  into  one  by  a  new  external  deposit, 
and  the  resulting  mass  then  shows  rounded  swellings  on  opposite 
sides.  The  large  calculi  occupying  the  pelvis  of  the  kidneys  usually 
show  a  central  part  having  the  outline  of  the  main  cavity  of  the 


DISEASES    OF    THE    URINAEY    OEGANS.  137 

pelvis  and  two  or  more  projections  that  have  been  molded  into  the 
corresponding  branches  or  channels  which  lead  to  corresponding 
lobes  of  the  kidney.  In  winter  and  spring  small  concretions  in  the 
form  of  plates  are  often  met  with  in  the  branches  of  the  pelvis,  hav- 
ing been  formed  and  molded  in  the  confined  space  between  the  pro- 
jecting papilla  and  the  surrounding  cuplike  branch  of  the  pelvis. 
Finally,  the  pulplike  deposits  in  the  sheath  and  elsewhere  are  made 
up  of  globular  masses,  individually  so  small  as  to  be  often  practically 
microscopic. 

STONE   IN   THE   KIDNEY    (RENAL   CALCULI). 

[PI.  XI,  fig.  1.] 

In  an  animal  leading  the  quiet,  uneventful  life  of  the  ox,  stones  of 
large  size  may  be  present  in  the  kidney  without  producing  any  dis- 
order appreciable  to  the  people  about  him.  In  cattle  fattened  on  dry 
feed  in  winter,  on  the  magnesian  limestone  of  New  York,  it  is  excep- 
tional to  find  the  substance  of  the  kidney  free  from  calculi  about  the 
size  of  a  grain  of  wheat  or  less,  and  standing  out  as  white  objects  in 
the  general  red  of  the  cut  surface  of  the  organ.  Similarly  around 
the  papillse  in  the  cuplike  arms  of  the  pelvis  we  find  minute,  flat- 
tened or  more  or  less  rounded,  yellowish-white  concretions.  Even 
the  large  concretions  may  prove  apparently  harmless.  I  have  a 
calculus  several  ounces  in  weight  which  filled  the  entire  pelvis  of  the 
kidney,  that  was  found  by  accident  in  a  fat  carcass  while  being 
dressed.  In  work  oxen,  however,  such  concretions  may  give  rise  to 
symptoms  of  kidney  disease,  such  as  stiffness  of  the  loins,  shown 
especially  in  the  acts  of  rising  or  turning,  weakness  of  the  hind  parts 
when  set  to  pull  a  heavy  load,  an  irritability  of  the  kidneys,  shown 
by  the  frequent  passage  of  urine  in  small  quantity,  tenderness  of  the 
loins,  shown  when  they  are  pinched  or  lightly  struck,  and  it  may  be 
the  passage  of  blood  or  minute  gritty  masses  with  the  urine.  If  the 
attack  is  severe,  what  is  called  "renal  colic"  (kidney  colic)  may  be 
shown  by  frequent  uneasy  shifting  of  the  hind  limbs,  shaking  or 
twisting  of  the  tail,  looking  around  at  the  flanks,  and  lying  down  and 
rising  again  at  short  intervals  without  apparent  cause.  The  fre- 
quent passage  of  urine,  the  blood  or  gritty  masses  contained  in  it, 
and  perhaps  the  hard,  stony  cylinders  around  the  tufts  of  hair  of  the 
sheath,  show  that  the  source  of  the  suffering  is  the  urinary  organs. 
In  bad  cases  active  inflammation  of  the  kidneys  may  set  in.  (See 
"Nephritis,"  p.  121.) 

URETERAL   CALCULL 

These  are  small  stones  which  have  passed  from  the  pelvis  of  the 
Sidney  into  the  canal  (ureter)  leading  from  the  kidney  to  the  blad- 
der, but,  being  too  large  to  pass  on  easily,  have  blocked  that  canal  and 


138  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

forced  the  urine  back  upon  the  kidney.  The  result  is  the  production 
of  symptoms  more  violent  than  in  renal  calculi,  though  not  varying, 
save  in  intensity,  from  those  of  renal  colic.  In  case  of  complete  and 
unrelieved  obstruction,  the  secretion  of  the  kidney  on  that  side  is 
entirely  abolished,  and  it  becomes  the  seat  of  passive  congestion,  and 
it  may  even  be  absorbed  in  greater  part  or  as  a  vrhole,  leaving  only  a 
fibrous  sac  containing  fluid  with  a  urinous  odor.  In  small  cattle,  in 
which  the  oiled  hand  introduced  into  the  last  gut  may  reach  the 
affected  part,  the  distended  ureter  may  be  felt  as  a  tense,  elastic  cord, 
extending  forward  from  the  jjoint  of  obstruction  on  the  lateral  wall 
of  the  pelvis  and  beneath  the  loins  toward  the  kidney.  If  relief  is 
obtained  by  the  onward  passage  of  the  stone  a  free  flow  of  unne 
usually  follows,  in  the  midst  of  which  may  often  be  found  gritty 
masses.  If  the  outlets  from  both  kidneys  are  similarly  blocked  the 
animal  becomes  poisoned  by  the  retention  in  the  blood  of  the  elements 
of  the  urine,  and  by  their  reabsorption  after  secretion. 

Treatment  of  rencil  and  ureteral  calculi. — Treatment  is  not  very 
successful,  as  only  the  smallest  calculi  can  pass  through  the  ureter 
and  enter  the  bladder,  and  even  if  they  should  do  so  they  are  liable  to 
a  progressive  increase  there,  so  that  later  they  may  cause  the  symp- 
toms of  stone  in  the  bladder.  Fortunately,  ordinary  dairy,  growing, 
or  fattening  cattle  rarely  show  evident  symptoms  of  illness,  and  even 
though  they  do  so  they  can  usually  be  fattened  and  slaughtered  before 
the  health  is  seriously  impaired.  In  work  oxen  the  case  is  different, 
and  acute  symptoms  may  develop,  but  even  then  the  animal  may  often 
be  fitted  for  the  butcher.  When  treatment  is  demanded  it  is  pri- 
marily soothing  and  antispasmodic.  Fomentations  with  warm  water 
over  the  loins  should  be  persisted  in  without  intermission  until  relief 
has  been  secured.  The  soothing  effect  on  the  kidney  will  often  relieve 
inflammation  and  irritation,  should  the  stone  be  in  that  situation, 
while  if  in  the  ureter  the  warm  fomentations  will  at  once  soothe  irri- 
tation, relax  spasm  of  the  muscular  coat  of  the  canal,  and  favor  an 
abundant  secretion  from  the  kidney,  which,  pressing  on  the  obstruct- 
ing stone,  may  slowly  push  it  on  into  the  bladder.  Large  doses  of 
laudanum  (2  ounces)  or  of  solid  extract  of  belladonna  (2  drams)  will 
not  only  soothe  the  pain  but  relax  the  spasm  and  favor  the  onward 
passage  of  the  calculus.  The  animal  should  be  encouraged  to  drink 
large  quantities  of  cool  water  to  favor  the  free  secretion  of  a  very 
watery  urine,  which  will  not  only  serve  to  obviate  irritation  and  con- 
tinued deposit  caused  by  a  highly  concentrated  urine,  but  will  press 
the  stone  onward  toward  the  bladder,  and  even  in  certain  cases  will 
tend  to  disintegrate  it  by  solution  of  some  of  its  elements,  and  thus 
to  favor  its  crumbling  and  expulsion.  This  is  a  principle  which  must 
never  be  lost  sight  of  in  the  treatment  of  calculi.  The  immersion  of 
the  stone  in  a  liquid  of  a  lower  specific  gi*avity  than  thnt  in  which  it 


DISEASES    OF    THE    URINARY    ORGANS.  139 

has  formed  and  grown  tends  to  dissolve  out  the  more  soluble  of  its 
component  parts,  and  thus  to  destroy  its  density  and  cohesion  at  all 
points,  and  thereby  to  favor  its  complete  disintegration  and  expul- 
sion. This  explains  why  cattle  taken  from  a  herd  on  magnesian 
limestone  in  spring,  after  the  long,  dry  feeding  of  winter,  usually 
have  renal  calculi,  while  cattle  from  the  same  herd  in  the  fall,  after 
a  summer's  run  on  a  succulent  pasture,  are  almost  always  free  from 
concretions.  The  abundance  of  liquid  taken  in  the  green  feed  and  ex- 
pelled through  the  kidneys  and  the  low  density  or  watery  nature  of 
the  urine  have  so  opened  the  texture  and  destroyed  the  density  of 
the  smaller  stones  and  gravel  that  they  have  all  been  disintegrated 
and  removed.  This,  too,  is  the  main  reason  why  benefit  is  derived 
from  a  prolonged  stay  at  mineral  springs  by  the  human  victims  of 
gravel.  If  they  had  swallowed  the  same  number  of  quarts  of  pure 
water  at  home  and  distributed  it  at  suitable  times  each  day,  they 
would  have  benefited  largely  without  a  visit  to  the  springs. 

It  follows  from  what  has  been  just  said  that  a  succulent  diet,  in- 
cluding a  large  quantity  of  water  (gruels,  sloppy  mashes,  turnips, 
beets,  potatoes,  apples,  pumpkins,  ensilage,  succulent  grasses),  is  an 
important  factor  in  the  relief  of  the  milder  forms  of  stone  and  gravel. 

Prevention. — Prevention  of  calculus  especially  demands  this  sup- 
ply of  w^ater  and  watery  rations  on  all  soils  and  in  all  conditions  in 
which  there  is  a  predisposition  to  the  disease.  It  must  also  be  sought 
by  attempts  to  obviate  all  those  conditions  mentioned  above  as  causa- 
tive of  the  malady.  Sometimes  good  rain  water  canine  furnished  in 
limestone  districts,  but  i:)utrid  or  bad-smelling  rain  water  is  to  be 
avoided  as  probably  more  injurious  than  that  from  the  limestone. 
Unsuccessful  attempts  have  been  made  to  dissolve  calculi  by  alkaline 
salts  and  mineral  acids,  respectively,  but  their  failure  as  a  remedy 
does  not  .necessarily  condemn  them  as  preventives.  One  dram  of 
caustic  potash  or  of  hydrochloric  acid  may  be  given  daily  in  the 
drinking  water.  In  diametrically  opposite  ways  these  attack  and 
decompose  the  less  soluble  salts  and  form  new  ones  which  are  more 
soluble  and  therefore  little  disposed  to  precipitate  in  the  solid  form. 
Both  are  beneficial  as  increasing  the  secretion  of  urine.  In  cases  in 
which  the  diet  has  been  too  highly  charged  with  phosphates  (wheat 
bran,  etc.),  these  aliments  must  be  restricted  and  water  allowed  ad 
libitum.  If  the  crystals  passed  with  the  urine  are  the  sharp  an- 
gular (octahedral)  ones  of  oxalate  of  lime,  then  the  breathing 
should  be  made  more  active  by  exercise,  and  any  disease  of  the  lungs 
subjected  to  appropriate  treatment.  If  the  crystals  are  triangular 
prisms  of  ammonia-magnesium  phosphate  or  starlike  forms  with 
feathery  rays,  the  indications  are  to  withhold  the  feed  or  water  that 
abounds  in  magnesia  and  check  the  fermentation  in  the  urine  by 
attempts  to  destroy  its  bacteria.     In  the  latter  direction  plenty  of 


140  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

pure-water  diuretics,  and  a  daily  dose  of  oil  of  turpentine  in  milk,  or 
a  dose  thi'ice  a  day  of  a  solution  containing  one-tenth  grain  each  of 
biniodid  of  mercury  and  iodid  of  potassium  would  be  indicated. 

In  considering  the  subject  of  prevention,  it  must  never  be  forgotten 
that  any  disease  of  a  distant  organ  which  determines  the  passage 
from  the  blood  into  the  urine  of  albumin  or  any  other  colloid  (un- 
crystallizable)  body  is  strongly  provocative  of  calculus,  and  should, 
if  possible,  be  corrected.  Apart  from  cases  from  geological  forma- 
tion, faulty  feeding,  and  other  causes,  the  gi'and  preventive  of  cal- 
culus is  a  long,  summer's  pasturage  of  succulent  grasses,  or  in  winter 
a  diet  of  ensilage  or  other  succulent  feed. 

The  calculi  formed  in  part  of  silica  demand  special  notice.  This 
agent  is  secreted  in  the  urine  in  the  form  of  silicate  of  potash  and  is 
thrown  down  as  insoluble  silica  when  a  stronger  acid  displaces  it  by 
combining  with  the  potash  to  its  exclusion.  In  cases  of  siliceous 
calculi,  accordingly,  the  appropriate  chemical  prevention  is  caustic 
potash,  which  being  present  in  the  free  state  would  attract  to  itself 
any  free  acid  and  leave  the  silica  in  its  soluble  condition  as  silicate  of 
l^otash. 

STONE   IN   THE   BLADDER    (VESICAL   CALCULUS,   OR  URETHRAL   CALCULUS). 

Stone  in  the  bladder  may  be  of  any  size,  but  in  the  ox  does  not 
usually  exceed  half  an  inch  in  diameter.  There  may,  however,  be  a 
number  of  small  calculi;  indeed,  they  are  sometimes  so  small  and 
numerous  as  to  form  a  small,  pulpy  magma  by  which  the  bladder  is 
considerably  distended. 

Symptoms. — The  symptoms  of  stone  in  the  bladder  may  be  absent 
until  one  of  the  masses  escapes  into  the  urethra,  but  when  this  occurs 
the  escape  of  urine  is  prevented,  or  it  is  allowed  to  pass  in  drops  or 
driblets  only,  and  the  effect  of  such  obstruction  becomes  manifest. 
The  point  of  obstruction  is  not  always  the  same,  but  it  is  most  fre- 
quently at  the  S-shaped  curve  of  the  penis,  just  above  the  testicles  or 
scrotum.  In  cows  and  heifers  the  urethra  is  so  short  and  becomes  so 
widely  dilated  during  the  urination  that  the  calculi  easily  escape  in 
the  flow  of  liquid  and  dangerous  symptoms  practically  never  appear. 

Even  in  the  male  the  signs  of  illness  are  at  first  ver^^  slight.  A 
close  observer  may  notice  the  cylinders  of  hard,  earthy  materials 
encircling  the  tufts  of  hair  at  the  opening  of  the  prepuce.  It  may 
further  be  observed  that  the  stall  remains  dry  and  that  the  animal 
has  not  been  seen  to  pass  water  when  out  of  doors.  The  tail  may  at 
times  be  gently  raised  and  contractions  of  the  muscle  (accelerator 
urina^)  beneath  the  anus  (PI.  IX,  fig.  2)  may  take  place  in  a  rhyth- 
mical or  pulsating  manner.  As  a  rule,  however,  no  symptom  is  no-- 
ticed  for  two  days,  only  the  animal  is  lacking  in  his  usual  spirits.  By 
this  time  the  constantly  accumulating  urine  has  distended  the  blad- 


DISEASES    OF    THE    URINAEY    ORGANS.  141 

der  beyond  its  power  of  resistance  and  a  rupture  occurs,  allowing  the 
urine  to  escape  into  the  cavity  of  the  abdomen.  Then  dullness  in- 
creases; the  animal  lies  down  most  of  his  time :  he  becomes  stupid  and 
sometimes  drowsy,  with  reddish-brown  congestion  of  the  lining  mem- 
brane of  the  eyelids ;  pressure  on  the  abdomen  causes  pain,  flinching, 
and  perhaps  groaning,  and  the  lowest  part  of  the  belly  fluctuates  more 
and  more  as  the  escaping  urine  accumulates  in  greater  and  greater 
amount.  If  at  this  stage  the  oiled  hand  is  introduced  into  the  rectum 
(last  gnt),  the  animal  flinches  when  pressure  is  made  downward  on 
the  floor  of  the  pelvis,  and  no  round,  distended  bladder  is  felt.  If 
the  same  examination  is  made  prior  to  the  rupture,  the  rounded, 
tense,  elastic  bladder  is  felt  extending  forward  into  the  abdomen, 
containing  one  or  two  gallons  of  liquid.  There  may  be  uneasy  shift- 
ing of  the  hind  limbs  and  twisting  of  the  tail,  also  frequent  lying 
down  and  rising,  but  these  symptoms  are  exceptional. 

"Wlien  the  obstruction  is  low  down  between  the  thighs  (at  the  S- 
shaped  flexure),  the  line  of  the  pulsating  urethra  from  the  anus 
downward  may  be  felt  distended  with  liquid,  and  though,  by  the 
hard  swelling  of  the  urethra,  it  is  seldom  easy  to  distinguish  the  exact 
seat  of  the  stone,  yet  there  is  usually  tenderness  at  the  point  of  ob- 
struction, and  from  this  it  may  be  accurately  located. 

Treatment. — The  treatment  of  stone  in  the  bladder  or  urethra  con- 
sists in  the  removal  of  the  stone  by  incision  and  the  use  of  forceps. 
(PI.  XI,  fig.  4.)  ^ATien  the  stone  has  been  arrested  at  the  S-shaped 
flexure  just  above  the  scrotum,  the  patient  being  lean,  the  thickened 
tender  pai-t  of  the  penis  may  be  seized  between  the  fingers  and  thumb 
of  the  left  hand,  while  the  calculus  is  exposed  by  a  free  incision  with 
the  knife  held  in  the  right.  If  there  is  no  other  obstruction  between 
this  point  and  the  bladder,  and  if  the  latter  has  not  yet  ruptured,  a 
flow  of  urine  should  take  place  from  the  opening.  If  there  is  no 
escape  of  liquid,  a  catheter  or  sound,  one-fourth  of  an  inch  in  diame- 
ter, must  be  passed  up  through  the  canal  (urethra)  until  it  is  arrested 
by  the  next  stone,  on  which  a  similar  incision  should  then  be  made 
to  effect  its  extraction.  In  case  the  stone  has  been  arrested  in  the  por- 
tion of  the  urethra  which  is  in  front  of  the  arch  of  the  hip  bone  and 
inside  the  pelvis,  it  can  be  reached  only  by  making  an  opening  into 
the  urethra  beneath  the  anus  and  over  the  arch  of  the  hip  bone,  and 
from  this  orifice  exploring  the  urethra  with  fine  forceps  to  the  neck 
of  the  bladder  or  until  the  stone  has  been  reached  and  extracted. 
Owing  to  the  small  size  of  the  canal  (urethra)  to  be  opened  and  the 
great  thickness  of  erectile  tissue  to  be  cut  through,  the  operation  re- 
quires a  very  accurate  knowledge  of  the  parts,  while  the  free  flow  of 
blood  is  blinding  to  the  operator.  A  staff  should  always  be  passed  up 
through  the  urethra  from  the  lower  wound,  if  such  has  been  made,  or, 
in  case  of  its  absence,  through  the  whole  length  of  the  penis,  that 


142  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

organ  having  been  drawn  out  of  its  sheath  until  the  S-shaped  curve 
has  been  effaced  and  the  course  of  the  canal  rendered  straight.  Upon 
the  end  of  this  staff  the  incision  can  be  made  with  far  more  confi- 
dence and  certainty.  The  operation  can  be  undertaken  only  by  a 
skilled  veterinary  anatomist,  but  the  hints  given  above  may  be  valu- 
able in  showing  the  stock  owner  when  he  is  being  properly  served  in 
such  a  case. 

In  outlying  districts,  where  no  skilled  operator  can  be  had,  a  trans- 
verse incision  may  be  made  with  a  clean,  sharp  knife  through^the  root 
of  the  penis,  just  over  the  arch  of  the  hip  bone,  when  the  urine  will 
flow  out  in  a  full  stream.  The  attendant  bleeding  may  be  ignored,  or 
if  profuse  it  may  be  checked  by  packing  the  wound  firmly  with  cotton 
wool  for  several  hours.  The  urine  will  continue  to  escape  by  the 
wound,  and  the  ox  should  be  fattened  for  the  butcher. 

The  immediate  relief  is  not  to  be  looked  upon  as  a  permanent  cure, 
as  the  calculi  in  the  affected  ox  are  usually  numerous,  and  later  attacks 
are  therefore  to  be  looked  for.  Hence  it  is  desirable  to  fatten  and 
kill  such  cases  after  a  successful  operation.  If  a  breeding  animal  is 
too  valuable  to  be  killed,  he  should  be  subjected  to  preventive  meas- 
ares,  as  laid  down  under  "  Stone  in  the  kidney,"  page  137. 

It  should  be  added  that  when  the  bladder  is  filled  with  a  soft 
magma  a  catheter  may  be  introduced  through  the  whole  length  of  the 
urethra  to  be  used  in  pumping  water  into  the  bladder.  This  water 
is  extracted  through  the  same  channel  when  it  has  been  charged  w-ith 
the  suspended  solids  by  manipulations  of  the  bladder  with  the  oiled 
hand  introduced  through  the  rectum. 

CALCULI,  OR  GRAVEL.  IN  THE  PREPUCE,  OR  SHEATH. 

This  is  usually  a  collection  of  gravel,  or  a  soft,  puttylike  material 
which  causes  distinct  swelling  of  the  sheath  and  gives  it  a  soft, 
doughy  feeling  when  handled.  It  may  be  removed  in  part  by  the 
oiled  fingers  introduced  into  the  cavity,  assisted  by  manipulation 
from  without,  or  a  tube  may  be  inserted  until  the  end  extends  behind 
the  collection  and  water  pumped  in  until  the  whole  mass  has  been 
evacuated.  Should  even  this  fail  of  success,  the  sheath  may  be  slit 
open  from  its  orifice  back  in  the  median  line  below  until  the  offending 
matter  can  be  reached  and  removed.  In  all  such  cases  the  interior 
of  the  sheath  should  be  finally  lubricated  with  sweet  oil  or  vaseline. 
It  is  unnecessary  to  stitch  up  the  wound  made  in  the  sheath.  (See 
^'Inflammation  of  the  sheath,'"  p.  153.) 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  IX. 


Kidney  and  Male  Generative  and  Urinary  Organs. 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  X. 


Microscopic  Anatomy  of  the  Kidney. 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  XI. 


Calculi  of  Kidney  and  Bladder. 


DISEASES  OF  THE  URINARY  ORGANS. 

DESCRIPTION    OF    PLATES. 

Plate  IX.  Kidney  and  male  generative  and  urinary  organs. 

Fig.  1.  Kidney  of  the  ox.  (From  Handbuch  des  Vergleichenden  Anatomie 
des  Haus  Saugethiere,  vol.  7,  1890.)  A,  renal  artery  carrying  blood 
into  the  kidney ;  Y,  renal  vein  carrying  blood  from  the  kidney  back  to 
the  heart;  H,  ureter,  the  tube  carrying  the  urine  from  kidney  to 
bladder.  It  is  formed  by  the  union  of  a  number  of  branches  which 
begin  as  cups  (calices),  each  inclosing  the  tip  of  a  conical  mass  of 
tissue  from  which  the  urine  excludes. 

Fig.  2.  Genital  and  urinary  orgai;^  of  the  bull.  (From  Leisering,  Mueller, 
and  Ellenberger,  Handbuch  des  Verg.  Anat.  des  Haus  Saugethiere.) 
the  serous  membrane  enveloping  the  testicles ;  3,  the  right  testicle, 
outer  view;  3',  left  testicle,  inner  view;  4,  epididymis,  or  the  beginning 
of  the  excretory  canal  of  the  testicle ;  4',  globus  major,  or  the  head  of 
the  epididymis;  4",  globus  minor,  or  the  tail  of  the  epididymis;  5, 
vas  deferens,  the  duct  through  which  the  seminal  fluid  reaches  the 
ejaculatory  ducts;  5',  pelvic  dilation  of  the  vas  deferens;  6,  vesic- 
ula  seminalis.  The  vesiculre  seminalis  are  two  oval  pouches,  which, 
in  addition  to  their  own  secretions,  receive  the  semen  conveyed  by 
the  seminal  ducts  and  hold  it  in  reserve  until  copulation;  7,  mem- 
branous or  intrapelvic  portion  of  the  urethral  canal  covered  by  Wil- 
son's muscle;  8,  part  of  the  prostate  gland,  covered  by  Wilson's 
muscle;  9,  Cowper's  gland.  This  gland,  like  the  prostate  gland, 
secretes  a  fluid  which  is  thrown  into  the  urethal  canal  in  abundance 
immediately  before  ejaculation;  by  this  means  the  expulsion  of  the 
semen  is  facilitated ;  10,  ejaculator  seminis,  or  accelerator  urinse 
muscle;  11,  penis;  11',  cut  portion  of  same;  12,  cut  suspensory  liga- 
ments of  penis ;  13,  sheath,  or  prepuce  laid  open ;  14,  retractor  muscles 
of  sheath ;  15,  cremaster  muscle  cut  at  superior  extremity ;  16,  dupli- 
cature  of  peritoneum;  17,  ureters  carrying  urine  from  the  kidneys 
to  the  bladder. 
Plate  X.  Microscopic  anatomy  of  the  kidney. 

Fig.  1.  In  this  figure  the  minute  apparatus  for  the  secretion,  collection, 
and  discharge  of  the  urine  into  the  pelvis  of  the  kidney  (see  preced- 
ing plate)  is  shown.  The  course  is  as  follows:  The  urine  is  secreted 
from  the  blood  vessels  in  the  little  round  bodies  called  glomeruli  (12), 
and  by  the  minute  cells  in  the  curved  tubes  (11,  9,  10,  8),  and  passes 
through  the  convoluted  and  straight  tubes  (7,  6)  into  the  larger  tube 
(1),  and  then  out  into  tlie  pelvis,  thence  through  the  ureters  into  the 
bladder.  The  fluid  and  salts  dissolved  in  the  urine  are  taken  from 
the  blood,  and  the  minute  blood  vessels  are  therefore  very  abundant 
in  the  kidneys,  as  is  shown  by  the  branches  and  network  on  the  left 
of  the  figure.  The  blood  passes  into  the  kidney  in  the  artery  (13), 
which  then  divides  into  branches  which  pass  into  the  glomeruli  (12)  and 
also  forms  network  around  the  secreting  tubules   (11,  9).     The  urine 

143 


144  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

Plate  X.  Microscopic  anatomy  of  tlie  Ividney — Continued. 

and  salts  pass  from  these  vessels  tlirougli  tlie  cells  lining  the  tubules 

into  the  latter,  and  are  discharged  as  described  above.     The  blood  is 

again  collected  in  veins  drawn  black  in  the  figure. 
Fig.   2   illustrates   the   manner   in   which  the  blood   is   distributed   in    the 

glomerulus  (/),'and  also  to  the  secreting  tubules  (e). 
Fig.  3  shows  the  relation  between  the  blood  vessel  in  the  glomerulus   (e) 

the  tubule  which  conducts  the  urine  therein  secreted  from  the  blood 

vessel;    (c)    represents  a  glomerulus  from  which  the  urinary  tubule 

has   been   removed. 
Plate  XI.  Calculi  of  kidney  and  bladder. 

Fig.  1.  Calculus,  or  stone,  from  the  kidney.     These  are  in  the  pelvis  or 

portion  of  the  ureter  receiving  the  urine.     The  prolongations  are  casts 

of  the  branches  of  the  pelvis.     See  the  plates  of  the  kidney  for  further 

description. 
Fig.  2.    Calculus  made  up  of  oxalate  of  lime  magnified  215  times. 
Fig.  3.  Phosphatic  calculus  containing  a  nucleus  of  uric  acid,  sawed  through 

to  show  concentric  layers. 
Fig.  4.  Straight  forceps  used  in  removing  stones  from  the  bladder. 
Fig.  5.  Casts  of  the  minute  tubules  of  the  kidney  found  in  the  urine  in 

various  kinds  of  kidney  disease.    Highly  magnified. 


DISEASES  OF  THE  GENERATIVE  ORGANS. 

By  James  Law,  F.  11.  C.  V.  S., 

Formerly  Professor  of  Veterinary  Science,  etc.,  in  Cornell  University. 

[Revised  by  Adolph  Kichhorn,  D.  V.  S.] 

GENERAL  DISCUSSION. 

Diseases  of  the  generative  organs  are  practically  confined  to  ani- 
mals which  are  kept  for  reproduction  and  the  dairy.  The  castration 
of  the  bull  condemns  these  organs  to  inactivity  and  protects  them 
from  the  many  causes  of  injury  attendant  on  the  engorged  blood 
vessels  in  the  frequent  periods  of  sexual  excitement,  on  the  exposure 
to  mechanical  violence,  and  on  the  exposure  to  infective  inoculation. 
In  three  respects  the  castrated  male  is  especially  subject  to  disease: 
(1)  To  inflammation  and  tumefaction  of  the  cut  end  of  the  cord  that 
supported  the  testicle  and  of  the  loose  connective  tissue  of  the  scro- 
tum; (2)  to  inflammation  of  the  sheath  and  penis  from  the  accumu- 
lation of  gravel  in  the  former,  from  which  the  penis  is  not  usually 
protruded  in  passing  water;  and  (3)  to  bruising,  abrasion,  and 
inflammation  of  the  sheath  and  penis  during  suspension  in  the  stocks 
for  the  purpose  of  shoeing.  Apart  from  these  the  ox  is  practically 
almost  exempt  from  the  inflammations  and  injuries  of  the  genital 
organs.  The  same  applies  to  the  castrated  heifer.  Inflammation 
may  occur  in  the  broad  ligament  of  the  womb  whence  the  ovary  has 
been  removed  or  infective  inflammation  in  the  abdominal  cavity 
(peritonitis)  in  case  the  operation  has  been  performed  through  the 
flank,  as  it  usually  is  in  the  young  heifer.  Apart  from  these,  the  cas- 
trated heifer  is  practically  immune  from  any  trouble  of  the  genera- 
tive apparatus.  Even  the  virgin  heifer  is  little  subject  to  such 
troubles,  though  she  is  not  exempt  from  inflammations,  and  above  all, 
from  morbid  growths  in  the  ovaries  which  are  well  developed  and 
functionally  very  active  after  the  first  year,  or  in  precocious  animals 
after  the  first  few  months  of  life.  The  breeding  cow,  on  the  other 
hand,  is  subjected  to  all  the  disturbances  attendant  on  the  gradual  en- 
largement of  the  womb,  the  diversion  of  a  large  mass  of  blood  to  its 
walls,  the  constant  drain  of  nutrient  materials  of  all  kinds  for  the 
nourishment  of  the  fetus,  the  risks  attendant  and  consequent  on  abor- 
tion and  parturition,  the  dangers  of  infection  from  the  bull,  the  risks 
of  sympathetic  disturbance  in  case  of  serious  diseases  of  other  organs, 
33071°— 10 10  145 


146  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

but  preeminently  of  the  urinary  organs  and  the  udder,  and  finally 
the  sudden  extreme  derangements  of  the  circulation  and  of  the  nerv- 
ous functions  which  attend  on  the  sudden  revulsion  of  a  great  mass 
of  blood  from  the  walls  of  the  contracting  womb  into  the  body  at 
large  immediately  after  calving. 

In  reviewing  this  class  of  diseases,  therefore,  we  have  to  note,  first, 
that  they  are  almost  exclusively  restricted  to  breeding  animals,  and 
secondly  that  in -keeping  with  the  absolute  difference  of  the  organs 
in  the  male  and  female  we  find  tAvo  essentially  distinct  lists  of  dis- 
eases affecting  the  two  sexes. 

EXCESS  OF  VENEREAL  DESIRE  (SATYRIASIS  IN  MALE,  OR  NYM- 
PHOMANIA IN  FEMALE). 

This  may  occur  in  the  male  from  too  frequent  sexual  intercourse, 
or  from  injury  and  congestion  of  the  base  of  the  brain  (vasodilator 
center  in  the  medulla),  or  of  the  posterior  end  of  the  spinal  cord,  or 
it  may  be  kept  up  by  congestion  or  inflammation  of  the  testicles  or  of 
the  mucous  membrane  covering  the  penis.  It  ma}^  be  manifested  by 
a  constant  or  frequent  erection,  by  attempts  at  sexual  connection, 
and  sometimes  by  the  discharge  of  semen  without  connection.  In 
bad  cases  the  feverishness  and  restlessness  lead  to  loss  of  flesh, 
emaciation,  and  physical  weakness. 

It  is,  however,  in  the  female  especially  that  this  morbid  desire  is 
most  noticeable  and  injurious.  It  may  be  excited  by  the  stimulating 
quality  of  the  blood  in  cows  fed  to  excess  on  highly  nitrogenous  feed, 
as  the  seeds  of  the  bean,  pea,  vetch,  and  tare,  and  as  wheat  bran, 
middlings,  cotton  seed,  gluten  meal,  etc.,  especially  in  the  case  of 
such  as  have  no  free  exercise  in  the  fields,  and  are  subject  to  constant 
association  with  a  vigorous  young  bull.  A  more  frequent  cause  is  the 
excitation  or  congestion  of  some  part  of  the  genital  organs.  Disease 
of  the  ovaries  is  preeminentl}^  the  cause,  and  this  may  be  by  the  for- 
mation of  cysts  (sacs  containing  liquid)  or  of  solid  tumors  or  de- 
generations, or,  more  commonly  than  all,  the  formation  of  tubercle. 
Indeed,  in  case  of  tuberculosis  {Stacking  the  abdominal  organs  of 
cows,  the  ovaries  or  the  serous  membranes  that  support  and  cover 
them  (the  broad  ligaments  of  the  womb)  are  peculiarly  subject  to 
attack,  and  the  animal  has  constant  sexual  excitement,  incessantly 
riding  or  being  ridden  by  other  cattle,  having  no  leisure  to  eat  or 
chew  tlie  cud,  but  moving  restlessly,  wearing  the  flesh  off  its  bones, 
and  gradually  wasting.  In  some  localities  these  coavs  are  known  as 
"  bullers,"  because  they  are  nearly  always  disposed  to  take  the  bull, 
but  they  do  not  conceive,  or,  if  they  do,  they  are  subject  to  early 
abortions.  They  are,  therefore,  useless  alike  for  the  dairy  and  for 
the  feeder,  unless  the  removal  of  the  ovaries  subdues  the  sexual  ex- 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  147 

citement,  when,  in  the  absence  of  tuberculous  disease  elsewhere,  they 
may  be  fattened  for  the  butcher. 

Among  the  other  sources  of  irritation  charged  with  causing  nym- 
phomania are  tumors  and  cancers  of  the  womb,  rigid  closure  of  the 
neck  of  the  womb  so  that  conception  can  not  occur  and  the  frequent 
services  by  the  male  which  stimulate  the  unsatisfied  appetite,  inflam- 
mation, and  a  purulent  discharge  from  the  womb  or  vagina. 

Treatment. — The  treatment  in  each  case  will  vary  with  the  cause 
and  is  most  satisfactory  when  that  cause  is  a  removable  one.  Over- 
feeding on  richly  nitrogenous  feed  can  be  stopped,  exercise  in  the 
open  field  given,  diseased  ovaries  may  be  removed  (see  "  Castra- 
tion," p.  297),  catarrhs  of  the  womb  and  passages  overcome  by  anti- 
sex)tic,  astringent  injections  (see  Leucorrhea,"  p.  222),  and  tumors 
of  the  womb  may  often  be  detached  and  extracted,  the  mouth  of  that 
organ  having  been  first  dilated  by  sponge  tents  or  otherwise.  The 
rubber  dilator  (impregnator),  sometimes  helpful  in  the  mare^  is 
rarely  available  for  the  cow,  owing  to  the  different  condition  of  the 
mouth  of  the  womb. 

DIMINUTION   OR   LOSS   OF   VENEREAL   DESIRE    (ANAPHRODISIA). 

This  occurs  in  either  sex  from  low  condition  and  ill  health.  Long- 
standing, chronic  diseases  of  important  internal  organs,  leading  to 
emaciation  and  weakness,  or  a  prolonged  semistarvation  in  winter 
may  be  sufficient  cause.  It  is,  however,  much  more  common  as  the 
result  of  -degeneration  or  extensive  and  destructive  disease  of  the 
secreting  organs  (testicles,  ovaries)  which  elaborate  the  male  and 
female  sexual  products,  respectively.  Such  diseases  are,  therefore,  a 
common  cause  of  sterility  in  both  sexes.  The  old  bull,  fat  and  lazy, 
becomes  sluggish  and  unreliable  in  serving,  and  finally  gets  to  be  use- 
less for  breeding  purposes.  This  is  not  attributable  to  his  weight  and 
clumsiness  alone,  but  largely  to  the  fatty  degeneration  of  his  testicles 
and  their  excretory  ducts,  which  prevents  the  due  formation  and 
maturation  of  the  semen.  If  he  has  been  kept  in  extra  high  condi- 
tion for  exhibition  in  the  show  ring,  this  disqualification  comes  upon 
him  sooner  and  becomes  more  irremediable. 

Similarly  the  overfed,  inactive  cow,  and  above  all  the  show  cow, 
fails  to  come  in  heat  at  the  usual  times,  shows  little  disposition  to 
take  the  bull,  and  fails  to  conceive  w^hen  served.  Her  trouble  is  the 
same  in  kind,  namel}^,  fatty  degeneration  of  the  ovaries  and  of  their 
excretory  ducts  (Fallopian  tubes),  which  prevents  the  formation  or 
maturation  of  the  ovum,  or,  when  it  has  formed,  hinders  its  passage 
into  the  womb.  Another  common  defect  in  such  old,  fat  cows  is  a 
rigid  closure  of  the  mouth  of  the  womb,  which  prevents  conception, 
even  if  the  ovum  reaches  the  interior  of  that  organ  and  even  if  the 
semen  is  dischargfed  into  the  vagrina. 


148  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

Preventive. — The  true  preventive  of  such  conditions  is  to  be  found 
in  a  sound  hygiene.  The  breeding  animal  should  be  of  adult  age, 
neither  overfed  nor  underfed,  but  well  fed  and  moderately  exercised ; 
in  other  words,  the  most  vigorous  health  should  be  sought,  not  only 
that  a  strong  i^ce  may  be  propagated,  but  that  the  whole  herd,  or 
nearly  so,  may  breed  with  certainty.  Fleming  gives  79  per  cent  as 
the  general  average  of  cows  that  are  found  to  breed  in  one  year. 
Here  more  than  a  fifth  of  the  progeny  is  sacrificed  and  a  fifth  of  the 
product  of  the  dairy.  With  careful  management  the  proportion  of 
breeders  should  approach  100  per  cent.  The  various  local  and  gen- 
eral obstacles  to  conception  should  be  carefully  investigated  and 
removed.  The  vigorous  health  which  comes  from  a  sufficiently  lib- 
eral diet  and  abundant  exercise  should  be  solicited,  and  the  compara- 
tive bloodlessness  and  weakness  which  advance  with  undue  fattening 
should  be  sedulously  avoided.  In  bull  or  cow  which  is  becoming 
unduly  fat  and  showing  indications  of  sexual  indifference,  the  treat- 
ment must  be  active.  Turning  out  on  a  short  pasture  where  it  must 
work  hard  for  a  living  will  often  suffice.  The  bull  which  can  not  be 
turned  out  to  pasture  may  sometimes  be  utilized  in  the  yoke  or  tread 
power,  or  he  may  be  kept  a  part  of  his  time  in  a  field  or  paddock 
chained  by  the  ring  in  his  nose  to  a  strong  wire  extending  from  one 
side  of  the  lot  to  the  other  and  attached  securely  to  two  trees  or 
posts.  The  wire  should  be  higher  than  the  back  of  the  bull,  which 
will  move  frequently  from  end  to  end.  If  he  is  indisposed  to  take 
sufficient  exercise  in  this  way  he  may  be  safely  driven.  An  instance 
of  the  value  of  the  exercise  in  these  incipient  cases  of  fatty  degenera- 
tion is  often  quoted.  The  cow  Dodona,  condemned  as  barren  at 
Earl  Spencers',  was  sold  clieap  to  Jonas  Webb,  who  had  her  driven 
by  a  road  a  distance  of  120  miles  to  his  farm  at  Wilbraham,  soon  after 
which  she  became  pregnant.  In  advanced  cases,  however,  in  which 
the  fatty  degeneration  is  complete,  recovery  is  impossible. 

In  case  of  rigid  closure  of  the  mouth  of  the  womb  the  only  resort  is 
dilatation.  This  is  far  more  difficult  and  uncertain  in  the  cow  than 
in  the  mare.  The  neck  of  the  Avomb  is  longer,  is  often  tortuous  in  its 
course,  and  its  walls  so  approximated  to  each  other  and  so  rigid  that 
it  may  be  all  but  impossible  to  follow  it,  and  there  is  always  danger 
of  perforating  its  walls  and  opening  into  the  cavity  of  the  abdomen, 
or,  short  of  that,  of  causing  inflammation  and  a  new,  rigid,  fibrous 
formation  which  on  healing  leaves  matters  worse  than  before.  The 
opening  must  be  carefully  made  with  the  finger,  and  when  that  has 
entered  the  womb  further  dilatation  may  be  effected  by  inserting  a 
sponge  tent  or  by  careful  stretching  with  a  mechanical  dilator. 
(PI.  XX,  fig.  6.) 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  149 

STERILITY  FROM  OTHER  CAUSES. 

The  questions  as  to  whether  a  bull  is  a  sure  stock  getter  and 
whether  a  cow  is  a  breeder  are  so  important  that  it  would  be  wrong 
to  pass  over  other  prominent  causes  of  sterility.  Breeding  at  too 
early  an  age  is  a  common  source  of  increasing  weakness  of  consti- 
tution which  has  existed  in  certain  breeds.  Jerseys  have  especially 
been  made  the  victims  of  this  mistake,  the  object  being  to  establish 
the  highest  milking  powers  in  the  smallest  obtainable  bod}^  which 
will  demand  the  least  material  and  outlay  for  its  constant  repair  of 
Avaste.  With  success  in  this  line  there  has  been  the  counterbalancing 
disadvantage  of  impaired  vigor,  with  too  often  lessened  fertility  as 
well  as  increased  predisposition  to  disease.  "Wlien  the  heifers  of  the 
race  have  for  generation  after  generation  been  bred  under  a  year  old, 
the  demand  for  the  nourishment  of  the  fetus  is  too  great  a  drain  on 
the  immature  animal,  which  accordingly  remains  small  and  stunted. 
As  it  fails  to  develop  in  size,  so  every  organ  fails  to  be  nourished  to 
perfection.  Similarly  with  the  immature  bull  put  to  too  many  cows ; 
he  fails  to  develop  his  full  size,  vigor,  or  stamina,  and  transfers  his 
acquired  weakness  to  his  progeny.  An  increasing  number  of  barren 
females  and  an  increasing  proclivity  to  abortions  are  the  necessary 
results  of  both  courses.  WTien  this  early  breeding  has  occurred  acci- 
dentally it  is  well  to  dry  up  the  dam  just  after  cahdng,  and  to  avoid 
having  her  served  again  until  full  grown. 

Some  highly  fed  and  plethoric  females  seem  to  escape  conception 
by  the  very  intensity  of  the  generative  ardor.  The  frequent  passage 
of  urine,  accompanied  by  contractions  of  the  womb  and  vagina  and 
a  profuse  secretion  from  their  surfaces,  leads  to  the  expulsion  of  the 
semen  after  it  has  been  lodged  in  the  genitial  passages.  This  may  be 
remedied  somewhat  by  bleedirfg  the  cow  shortly  before  putting  to 
the  bull,  so  as  to  diminish  the  richness  and  stimulating  quality  of 
the  blood ;  or  better,  by  giving  1^  poimds  of  Epsom  salt  a  day  or  two 
before  she  comes  in  heat,  and  subjecting  her  at  the  same  time  to  a 
spare  diet.  Should  the  excessive  ardor  of  the  cow  not  be  controllable 
in  this  way,  she  may  be  shut  up  for  a  day  or  two,  until  the  heat  is 
passing  off,  when  under  the  lessened  excitement  the  semen  is  more 
likely  to  be  retained. 

The  various  diseases  of  the  ovaries,  their  tubes,  the  womb,  the 
testicles  and  their  excretory  ducts,  as  i-eferred  to  under  "  Excess  of 
renereal  desire,"  are  causes  of  barrenness.  In  this  connection  it 
may  be  said  that  the  discharges  consequent  on  calving  are  fatal  to 
the  vitality  of  semen  introduced  before  these  have  ceased  to  flow; 
hence  service  too  soon  after  calving,  or  that  of  a  cow  which  has 
had  the  womb  or  genital  passages  injured  so  as  to  keep  up  a  muco- 
purulent flow  until  the  animal  comes  in  heat,  is  liable  to  fail  of 


150  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

conception.  Anj^  such  discharge  should  be  first  arrested  by  repeated 
injections  as  for  leucorrhea,  after  which  the  male  may  be  admitted. 

Feeding  on  a  very  saccharine  diet,  which  greatly  favors  the  deposi- 
tion of  fat,  seems  to  have  an  even  more  direct  effect  in  preventing 
conception  during  such  regimen.  Among  other  causes  of  barrenness 
are  all  those  that  favor  abortion,  ergoted  grasses,  smutty  wheat  or 
corn,  laxative  or  diuretic  drinking  water,  and  any  improper  or 
musty  feed  that  causes  indigestions,  colics,  and  diseases  of  the  urinary 
organs,  notably  gravel;  also  savin,  rue,  cantharides,  and  all  other 
irritants  of  the  bowels  or  kidneys. 

Hermaphrodites  are  barren,  of  course,  as  their  sexual  organs  are 
not  distinctively  either  male  or  female.  The  heifer  born  as  a  twin 
with  a  bull  is  usually  hermaphrodite  and  barren,  but  the  animals 
of  either  sex  in  which  development  of  the  organs  is  arrested  before 
they  are  fully  matured  remain  as  in  the  male  or  female  prior  to 
puberty,  and  are  barren.  Bulls  with  both  testicles  retained  within 
the  abdomen  may  go  through  the  form  of  seiwing  a  cow,  but  the 
service  is  unfruitful ;  the  spermatozoa  are  not  fully  elaborated.  So 
I  have  examined  a  heifer  with  a  properly  formed  but  very  small 
womb  and  an  extremely  narrow  vagina  and  vulva,  the  walls  of  which 
were  very  muscular,  that  could  never  be  made  to  conceive.  A  post- 
mortem examination  would  probably  have  disclosed  an  imperfectly 
formed  ovary  incapable  of  bringing  ova  to  maturity. 

A  bull  and  cow  that  have  been  too  closely  inbred  in  the  same  line 
for  generations  may  prove  sexually  incompatible  and  unable  to  gen- 
erate together,  though  both  are  abundantly  prolific  when  coupled  with 
animals  of  other  strains. 

Finally,  a  bull  may  prove  unable  to  get  stock,  not  from  any  lack  of 
sexual  development,  but  from  disease  of  other  organs  (back,  loins, 
hind  limbs),  which  renders  him  unable  to  mount  with  the  energy 
requisite  to  the  perfect  service. 

CONGESTION  AND  INFLAMMATION  OF  THE  TESTICLES  (ORCHITIS). 

This  usuall}^  results  from  blows  or  other  direct  injuries,  but  may 
be  the  result  of  excessive  service  or  of  the  formation  of  some  new 
growth  (tumor)  in  the  gland  tissue.  The  bull  moves  stiffly,  with  strad- 
dling gait,  and  the  right  or  left  half  of  the  scrotum  in  which  the 
affected  testicle  lies  is  swollen,  red,  and  tender,  and  the  gland  is  drawn 
up  within  the  sac  and  dropped  again  at  frequent  intervals.  It  may 
be  treated  by  rest;  by  1^  pounds  Epsom  salt  given  in  4  quarts  of 
water;  by  a  restricted  diet  of  some  succulent  feed;  by  continued 
fomentations  with  warm  water  by  means  of  sponges  or  rags  sustained 
by  a  sling  passed  around  the  loins  and  back  between  the  hind  legs. 
The  i)ain  may  be  allayed  by  smearing  with  a  solution  of  opium  or  of 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  151 

extract  of  belladonna.  Should  a  soft  point  appear,  indicating  the 
formation  of  matter,  it  may  be  opened  with  a  sharp  lancet  and  the 
wound  treated  daily  with  a  solution  of  a  teaspoonful  of  carbolic  acid 
in  a  half  pint  of  water.  Usually,  however,  when  the  inflammation 
has  proceeded  to  this  extent,  the  gland  will  be  ruined  for  purposes 
of  procreation  and  must  be  cut  out.     (See  "  Castration,"  p,  297.) 

INFLAMMATION  OF  THE  SHEATH. 

While  this  may  occur  in  bulls  from  infection  dui-ing  copulation  and 
from  bruises,  blows,  and  other  mechanical  injuries,  the  condition  is 
more  common  in  the  ox  in  connection  with  the  comparative  inactivity 
of  the  parts.  The  sheath  has  a  very  small  external  opening,  the 
mucous  membrane  of  which  is  studded  with  sebaceous  glands  secret- 
ing a  thick,  unctuous  matter  of  a  strong,  heavy  odor.  Behind  this 
orifice  is  a  distinct  pouch,  in  which  this  unctuous  matter  is  liable  to 
accumulate  when  the  penis  is  habitually  drawn  back.  Moreover,  the 
sheath  has  two  muscles  (protractors)  which  lengthen  it,  passing  into 
it  from  the  region  of  the  navel,  and  two  (retractors)  that  shorten  it, 
passing  into  it  from  the  lower  surface  of  the  pelvic  bones  above. 
(PI.  IX,  fig.  2.)  The  protractors  keep  the  sheath  stretched,  so  that 
it  habitually  covers  the  penis,  while  the  retractors  shorten  it  up  in 
the  act  of  service,  so  that  the  penis  can  project  to  its  full  extent.  In 
stud  bulls  the  frequent  protrusion  of  the  erect  and  enlarged  penis 
and  the  retraction  and  dilation  of  the  opening  of  the  sheath  serve  to 
empty  the  pouch  and  prevent  any  accumulation  of  sebaceous  matter 
or  urine.  In  the  ox,  on  the  other  hand,  the  undeveloped  and  inactive 
penis  is  usually  drawn  back  so  as  to  leave  the  anterior  preputial 
pouch  empty,  so  that  the  sebaceous  matter  has  space  to  accumulate 
and  is  never  expelled  by  the  active  retraction  of  the  sheath  and 
protrusion  of  the  erect  penis  in  service.  Again,  the  ox  rarely  pro- 
trudes the  tip  of  the  penis  in  urination,  the  urine  is  discharged  into 
the  preputial  pouch  and  lodges  and  decomposes  there,  so  that  there 
is  a  great  liability  to  the  precipitation  of  its  earthy  salts  in  the  form 
of  gravel.  The  decomposing  ammoniacal  urine,  the  gritty  crystals 
precipitated  from  it,  and  the  fetid,  rancid,  sebaceous  matter  set  up 
inflammation  in  the  delicate  mucous  membrane  lining  the  passage. 
The  membrane  is  thickened,  reddened,  rendered  friable,  and  ulti- 
mately ulcerated,  and  the  now  narrowed  sheath  is  blocked  by  the 
increasing  mass  of  sebaceous  and  urinous  material  and  the  decom- 
posing mucus  and  pus.  The  penis  can  no  longer  be  protruded,  the 
urine  escapes  in  a  small  stream  through  the  narrowing  sheath,  and 
finally  the  outlet  is  completely  blocked  and  the  urine  distends  the 
back  part  of  the  sheath.  This  will  fluctuate  on  being  handled,  and 
soon  the  unhealthy  inflammation  extends  on  each  side  of  it,  causing 


152  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

a  thick,  doughy,  tender  swelling  under  the  belly  and  between  the 
thighs.  The  next  step  in  the  morbid  course  is  overdistention  of  the 
bladder,  with  the  occurrence  of  colicky  pains,  looking  at  the  flanks, 
uneasy  movements  of  the  hind  limbs,  raising  or  twisting  of  the  tail, 
pulsatory  contractions  of  the  urethra  under  the  anus,  and  finally  a 
false  appearance  of  relief,  which  is  caused  by  rupture  of  the  bladder. 
Before  rupture  takes  place  the  distended  bladder  may  press  on  the 
rectum  and  obstruct  the  passage  of  the  bowel  dejections.  Two  mis- 
takes are  therefore  probable — first,  that  the  bowels  alone  are  to 
be  relieved,  and,  second,  that  the  trouble  is  obstruction  of  the  urethra 
by  a  stone.  Hence  the  need  of  examining  the  sheath  and  pushing 
the  finger  into  its  opening  to  see  that  there  is  no  obstruction  there, 
in  all  cases  of  retention  of  urine,  overdistended  bladder,  or  blocked 
rectum  in  the  ox.  The  disease  may  be  acute  or  chronic — the  first  by 
reason  of  acute,  adhesive  inflammation  blocking  the  outlet,  the  second 
by  gradual  thickening  and  ulceration  of  the  sheath  and  blocking  by 
the  sebaceous  and  calculous  accretion. 

Treatment. — The  treatment  of  this  affection  depends  on  the  stage. 
If  recent  and  no  instant  danger  of  ruj^ture  of  the  bladder,  the 
narrow  opening  of  the  sheath  should  be  freely  cut  open  in  the  median 
line  below,  and  the  sac  emptied  out  with  a  finger  or  spoon,  after 
which  it  should  be  thoroughly  washed  with  tepid  water.  To  make 
the  cleansing  more  thorough  a  catheter  or  a  small,  rubber  tube  may 
be  inserted  well  back  into  the  sheath,  and  water  may  be  forced 
through  it  from  a  syringe  or  a  funnel  inserted  into  the  other  end  of 
the  tube  and  considerably  elevated.  A  fountain  syringe,  which 
should  be  in  every  house,  answers  admirably.  The  sheath  may  be 
daily  washed  out  with  tepid  water,  with  a  suds  made  with  Castile 
soap,  or  with  a  weak  solution  of  sulphate  of  zinc  (one-half  dram  to 
a  quart  of  water).  If  these  attentions  are  impossible,  most  cases, 
after  cleansing,  will  do  well  if  merely  driven  through  clean  water  up 
to  the  belly  once  a  day. 

In  case  the  disease  has  progressed  to  absolute  obstruction,  with  the 
bladder  ready  to  rupture  any  moment,  no  time  must  be  lost  in  open- 
ing into  the  urethra  with  a  sharp  knife  over  the  bony  arch  under  the 
anus,  where  the  pulsations  are  seen  in  urinating.  This  incision  is 
best  made  in  the  median  line  from  above  downward,  but  in  the 
absence  of  a  skillful  operator  a  transverse  incision  with  a  sharp  knife 
over  the  bone  in  the  median  line  until  the  urine  flows  with  a  gush  is 
better  than  to  let  the  patient  die.  Considerable  blood  will  be  lost 
and  the  wound  will  heal  tardily,  but  the  ox  will  be  preserved.  Then 
the  slitting  and  cleansing  of  the  sheath  can  be  done  at  leisure,  as 
described  above.     If  the  bladder  is  ruptured,  the  case  is  hopeless. 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENEEATIVE    ORGANS.  153 

INFLAMMATION   OF  THE    SHEATH   AND   PENIS   FROM   BRUISING. 

This  also  is  an  affection  of  work  oxen,  caused  by  the  pressure  and 
friction  of  the  sling  Avhen  the  animals  are  held  in  stocks  for  shoe- 
ing. This  crushing  of  both  sheath  and  penis  for  half  an  hour  or  more 
leads  to  the  development,  some  hours  later,  of  a  hard,  hot,  and  pain- 
ful swelling,  extending  from  the  scrotum  as  far  as  the  opening  of  the 
sheath.  Fever  sets  in,  with  dry  muzzle,  red  eyes,  hard,  full,  rapid 
pulse,  accelerated  breathing,  and  elevated  temperature.  The  ox 
stands  obstinately  with  his  hind  legs  drawn  apart  and  urine  falling 
drop  by  drop  from  the  sheath.  Appetite  and  rumination  are  sus- 
pended. In  twenty-four  hours  there  may  be  indications  of  advancing 
gangrene  (mortification),  the  swelling  becomes  cold,  soft,  and 
doughy;  it  may  even  crack  slightly  from  the  presence  of  gas;  a  red- 
dish brown,  fetid  liquid  oozes  from  the  swelling,  especially  around  the 
edges,  and  if  the  animal  survives  it  is  only  with  a  great  loss  of  sub- 
stance of  the  sheath  and  penis. 

Prevention. — The  prevention  of  such  an  injury  is  easy.  It  is  only 
necessary  to  see  that  the  slings  do  not  press  upon  the  posterior  part 
of  the  abdomen.    They  must  be  kept  in  front  of  the  sheath. 

Treatment. — Treatment,  to  be  effective,  must  be  prompt  and  judi- 
cious. Put  around  the  patient  a  strap  with  soft  pads  in  contact  with 
the  affected  parts,  constantly  soaked  in  cold  water  for  at  least  2-1 
hours.  A  pound  or  two  of  Epsom  salt  in  4  quarts  of  hot  water 
should  also  be  given.  The  second  day  the  parts  may  be  washed  witli 
1  quart  of  witch-hazel  (extract),  2  drams  sugar  of  lead,  and  1  ounce 
laudanum,  or  the  cold-water  irrigations  may  be  continued  if  the  ac- 
tive inflammation  persists.  In  case  the  swelling  continues  hard  and 
resistant,  it  may  be  pricked  at  the  most  prominent  points  to  the  depth 
of  one-third  of  an  inch  with  a  lancet  first  dipped  in  dilute  carbolic 
acid,  and  the  whole  surface  should  be  washed  frequently  with  chlorin 
water  or  other  antiseptic. 

When  softening  occurs  in  the  center  of  a  hard  mass  and  fluctuation 
can  be  felt  between  two  fingers  pressed  on  different  parts  of  such  soft- 
ening, it  should  be  freely  opened  to  let  out  the  putrid  pus,  and  the 
cavity  should  be  syringed  often  with  chlorin  water. 

In  bad  cases  extensive  sloughs  of  dead  skin,  of  the  whole  wall  of 
the  sheath,  and  even  of  the  penis,  may  take  place,  which  will  require 
careful  antiseptic  treatment.  The  soaking  of  the  urine  into  the  in- 
flamed and  softened  tissue  and  the  setting  up  of  putrefactive  action 
not  only  endanger  great  destruction  of  the  tissues  from  putrid  in- 
flammation, but  even  threaten  life  itself  from  a  general  blood  poison- 
ing (septicemia).  Every  case  should  have  skillful  treatment  to  meet 
its  various  phases,  but  in  the  severe  ones  this  is  most  urgently  de- 
manded. 


154  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

INFLAMMATION  OF  THE  URETHRA   (GONORRHEA). 

Like  other  males,  the  bull  sometimes  suffers  from  inflammation  of 
the  canal  which  conveys  the  urine  through  the  penis,  and  a  whitish 
mucopurulent  discharge  forms  in  consequence.  It  may  have  origi- 
nated in  gravel,  the  excitement-  of  too  frequent  service,  infection 
from  a  cow  with  leucorrhea,  or  from  extension  of  inflammation  from 
the  sheath.  Besides  the  oozing  of  the  whitish  liquid  from  the  end  of 
the  penis  and  sheath,  there  is  tenderness  and  pain  when  handled, 
and  while  there  is  no  actual  arrest  of  the  urine,  its  flow  is  subject  to 
frequent  voluntary  checks,  as  the  scalding  liquid  irritates  the  tender 
surface. 

Treatment. — If  recognized  before  the  discharge  sets  in,  a  dose  of  1^ 
pounds  of  Epsom  salts  and  local,  warm  fomentations  would  be  appro- 
priate. After  the  onset  of  the  whitish  discharge  a  daily  injection 
of  a  solution  of  20  grains  of  permanganate  of  potassium  in  a  pint  of 
water  into  the  penis  will  be  beneficial. 

WARTS  AND  PAPILLARY  GROWTHS  ON  THE  PENIS. 

These  are  not  frequent  in  bull  or  ox.  They  may  interfere  with  the 
protrusion  of  the  organ  from  its  sheath  or  with  service,  and  always 
give  rise  to  a  bad-smelling  discharge. 

Treatment. — They  may  be  twisted  off  with  a  pair  of  small  tweezers 
or  cut  off  with  a  pair  of  scissors,  and  the  seat  burned  with  a  pencil 
of  lunar  caustic.  To  get  hold  of  the  penis  in  the  bull,  bring  him  up 
to  a  cow.  In  the  ox  it  will  be  necessary  to  push  it  out  by  manipula- 
tion through  the  sheath.  In  difficult  cases  the  narrow  opening  of 
the  sheath  may  be  slit  open. 

WOUNDS  OF  THE  PENIS. 

The  most  common  wounds  are  those  sustained  by  blows  of  horns, 
sticks,  etc.  The  blood  vessels  and  sacs  are  ruptured  to  a  greater  or 
less  extent  and  considerable  swellings  filled  with  coagidated  blood 
and  inflammatory  products  occur,  leading  to  distortion  of  the  organ, 
and  it  may  be  to  the  impossibility  of  protruding  it. 

Treatment. — A  lotion  of  a  dram  of  alum  in  a  quart  ot  water  may 
be  applied  (injected  into  the  sheath,  if  necessary),  and  a  large 
sponge  constantly  irrigated  by  a  stream  of  cold  water  may  be  kept 
applied  by  means  of  a  surcingle  to  the  outer  side  of  the  sheath. 
Incisions  are  rarely  applicable  to  an  organ  of  this  kind,  but  in  case 
of  the  existence  of  an  extensive  clot  which  is  unlikely  to  be  ab- 
sorbed the  lancet  may  be  resorted  to.  If  the  injury  leads  to  paralysis 
of  the  penis  and  hanging  out  of  its  sheath,  it  should  be  supported 
in  a  sling  and  astringents  used  freely  until  inflammation  subsides. 
Then  the  restoration  of  power  may  be  sought  by  a  blister  between 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  155 

the  thighs,  by  the  use  of  electricity,  or  by  the  careful  use  of  nerve 
stimulants,  such  as  strychnia,  1  grain  tAvice  daily. 

ULCERS  ON  THE  PENIS. 

Sores  on  the  penis  of  the  bull  may  result  from  gravel  or  sebaceous 
masses  in  the  sheath  or  from  having  served  a  cow  having  leucorrhea. 

TreatTnent. — These  may  be  treated  by  frequent  injections  into  the 
sheath  of  a  lotion  made  with  1  dram  sugar  of  lead,  60  drops  carbolic 
acid,  and  1  quart  water. 

POLYPUS  OF  THE  VAGINA  OR  UTERUS. 

A  polypus  is  a  tumor  growing  from  the  mucous  membrane,  and 
often  connected  to  it  by  a  narrow  neck.  A  definite  cause  can  not 
always  be  assigned.  If  growing  in  the  vagina,  a  polypus  may 
project  as  a  reddish,  rounded  tumor  from  the  vulva,  especially  dur- 
ing the  act  of  passing  water.  It  can  be  distinguished  from  descent 
of  the  w^omb  by  the  absence  of  the  orifice  of  that  cavity,  which  can 
be  felt  by  the  oiled  hand  beyond  the  tumor  in  the  depth  of  the 
vagina.  From  a  vaginal  hernia  caused  by  the  protrusion  of  some 
abdominal  organ  enveloped  by  the  relaxed  wall  of  the  vagina  it 
may  be  distinguished  by  its  persistence,  its  firm  substance,  and  the 
impossibility  of  returning  it  into  the  abdomen  by  pressure.  A  her- 
nia containing  a  portion  of  bowel  gurgles  when  handled  and  can 
be  completely  effaced  by  pressure,  the  gut  passing  into  the  abdomen. 

A  polypus  in  the  womb  is  less  easily  recognized.  At  the  time  of 
calving  it  may  be  felt  through  the  open  mouth  of  the  womb  and 
recognized  by  the  educated  touch  (it  must  be  carefully  distinguished 
from  the  mushroom-formed  cotyledons  (PL  XIII,  fig.  2),  to  which 
in  ruminants  the  fetal  membranes  are  attached).  At  other  times, 
unless  the  womb  is  opened  in  the  effort  to  expel  it,  the  polypus  can 
be  detected  only  by  exa:mining  the  womb  with  the  oiled  hand  intro- 
duced through  the  rectum. 

Polypi  may  cause  a  mucopurulent  discharge  or  they  may  only  be 
suspected  when  they  prove  an  obstacle  to  parturition.  The  best  way 
to  remove  them  is  to  put  the  chain  of  an  eraseur  around  the  neck, 
or  pedicle,  of  the  tumor  and  tear  it  through;  or  the  narrow  neck 
may  be  torn  through  by  the  emasculator,  or  in  an  emergency  it 
may  be  twisted  through  by  rotating  the  tumor  on  its  axis.  The 
removal  of  the  tumor  will  allow  calving  to  proceed;  after  this  the 
sore  may  be  treated  by  a  daily  injection  of  one-half  dram  sulphate 
of  zinc,  1  dram  carbolic  acid,  and  1  quart  milk-Avarm  water. 

SIGNS  OF  PREGNANCY. 

If  a  cow  remains  for  three  or  four  weeks  after  service  without 
showing  signs  of  heat  (bulling),  she  is  probably  pregnant.     There 


156  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE,  » 

are  very  exceptional  cases  in  which  the  well-fed  cow  will  accept  the 
bull  weeks  or  months  after  actual  conception,  and  others  equally 
exceptional  in  which  the  well-thriven  but  unimpregnated  female  will 
refuse  the  male  persistently,  but  these  in  no  way  invalidate  the  gen- 
eral rule. 

The  bull,  no  matter  how  vigorous  or  how  ardent  his  sexual  instinct, 
can  not  be  made  to  pay  any  attention  to  a  cow  which  is  not  in  heat ; 
hence  indications  of  pregnancy  can  be  had  from  both  the  male  and 
female  side.  When  she  has  conceived,  the  cow  usually  becomes  more 
quiet  and  docile,  and  lays  on  flesh  and  fat  more  rapidly,  especially 
during  the  first  four  months  of  gestation.  The  stimulus  to  digestion 
and  nutrition  created  by  the  demands  of  the  growing  fetus,  added  to 
the  quieter  and  more  uneventful  life,  contributes  to  this  result.  Some 
feeders  avail  themselves  of  this  disposition  to  prepare  heifers  and 
cows  speedily   for  the  butcher. 

The  enlargement  of  the  abdomen,  and  its  dropping  so  that  it  bulges 
below  and  to  each  side,  while  it  falls  in  at  the  flank,  between  the  outer 
angle  of  the  hip  bone  and  the  last  rib,  are  significant  features  which, 
though  they  may  be  caused  by  abdominal  tumor  or  dropsy,  are 
usually  marks  of  pregnancy.  From  the  same  increasing  weight  of 
the  abdomen  the  spine  in  the  region  of  the  loins  sinks  so  that  the 
bones  of  the  croup  seem  to  rise,  especially  back  toward  the  root  of 
the  tail.  In  the  early  stages  of  pregnancy  the  udder  develops  slowly, 
and  toward  its  completion  quite  rapidly.  For  a  long  time  there  is 
merely  a  sense  of  greater  fullness  when  handled ;  the  wrinkles  in  the 
skin  become  shallower  and  are  effaced,  and  the  teats  are  materially 
enlarged.  Beginning  a  few  weeks  after  conception,  this  tends  to  a 
steady  development,  though  slight  alternations  in  the  sense  of  suc- 
cessive growth  and  shrinkage  are  not  uncommon.  In  milking  cows 
this  does  not  hold,  as  the  milk  usually  tends  to  a  steady  diminution 
and  the  udder  shrinks  slowly  until  near  the  completion  of  the  period, 
when  it  undergoes  its  sudden,  remarkable  development,  and  yields  at 
first  a  serous  liquid  and  then  the  yellow  colostrum,  which  coagulates 
when  heated.  As  pregnancy  advances  the  mucous  membrane  lining 
the  vulva  becomes  swollen  and  of  a  darker,  bluish-red  hue;  the 
mucous  secretion  also  increases,  becoming  very  abundant  just  before 
calving.  When  the  feeding  has  not  been  altered  or  restricted,  a  steady 
diminution  of  the  salts  of  lime  excreted  in  the  urine  is  an  attendant 
on  pregnancy,  the  lime  being  demanded  for  the  growing  body  of  the 
fetus. 

After  the  fifth  month  the  movements  of  the  calf  may  often  be 
observed  in  the  right  flank,  nearly  in  front  of  the  stifle,  when  the  cow 
is  drinking  cold  water.  The  sensation  of  cold  on  the  side  of  the  first 
stomach,  which  lies  to  the  left  and  directly  below  the  womb  (PI.  T), 
stimulates  the  calf  to  active  movements,  wliich  are  detected  on  the 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GEITERATIVE    ORGANS.  157 

sudden  jerking  outward  of  the  abdominal  wall  as  if  from  blows 
delivered  from  within.  In  a  loose,  pendent  abdomen  in  the  latter 
months  of  gestation  the  skin  may  often  be  seen  pushed  out  at  a 
sharp  angle,  irrespective  of  the  period  of  drinking. 

Another  mode  of  examination  through  the  flank  is  by  touch.  The 
pahn  of  the  hand  is  pressed  strongly  inward,  about  8  inches  in  front 
of  the  stifle  and  a  little  below^,  several  times  in  succession,  and  is  then 
brought  to  rest  with  the  pressure  maintained.  Presently  there  are 
felt  distinct  and  characteristic  movements  of  the  fetus,  which  has 
been  disturbed  and  roused  to  action.  Another  mode  is  to  press  the 
closed  fist  strongly  inward  in  the  same  situation  and  hold  it  so,  form- 
ing a  deep  indentation  in  the  abdominal  wall.  Presently  the  knuckles 
are  felt  to  be  struck  by  a  solid  body,  which  is  no  other  than  the  fetus 
that  has  been  displaced  to  the  left  by  the  push  of  the  hand,  and  now 
floats  back  in  its  liquid  covering  (amniotic  fluid;  see  PI.  XII)  down- 
ward and  to  the  right. 

Of  all  the  modes  of  examination  by  touch,  that  done  through  the 
rectum  gives  the  earliest  satisfactory  indications.  The  hand  and 
arm,  well  oiled,  are  introduced,  and  the  excrement  having  been 
removed  if  necessary,  the  palm  of  the  hand  is  turned  downward  and 
the  floor  of  the  pelvis  carefully  examined.  There  will  be  felt  in  the 
median  line  the  pear-shaped  outline  of  the  bladder,  more  or  less  full, 
rounded  or  tense,  according  to  the  quantity  of  urine  it  contains. 
Between  this  and  the  hand  will  be  felt  a  soft,  somewhat  rounded 
tubular  body,  which  divides  in  front  into  two  smaller  tubes  or 
branches,  extending  to  the  right  and  left  into  the  abdomen.  This 
is  the  womb,  which  in  its  virgin,  or  unimpregnated,  condition  is  of 
nearly  uniform  size  from  before  backward,  the  main  part  or  body 
being  from  1^  to  2  inches  across,  and  the  two  anterior  branches  or 
horns  being  individually  little  over  an  inch  wide.  Immediately  after 
conception  the  body  and  one  of  the  horns  begin  to  enlarge,  the  vacant 
horn  remaining  disproportionately  small,  and  the  enlargement  will 
be  most  marked  at  one  point,  where  a  solid,  rounded  mass  indicates 
the  presence  of  the  growing  embryo.  In  case  of  twins,  both  horns 
are  enlarged.  At  a  more  advanced  stage,  when  the  embryo  begins 
to  assume  the  form  of  the  future  animal,  the  rounded  form  gives 
place  to  a  more  or  less  irregidar  nodular  mass,  while  later  still  the 
head,  limbs,  and  body  of  the  fetus  may  be  distinctly  made  out.  The 
chief  source  of  fallacy  is  found  in  the  very  pendent  abdomen  of  cer- 
tain cows,  into  which  in  advanced  gestation  the  fetus  has  dropped 
so  low  that  it  can  not  be  felt  by  the  hand  in  the  rectum.  The  absence 
of  the  distinct  outline  of  the  vacant  womb,  however,  and  the  clear 
indications  obtained  on  external  examination  through  the  right  flank 
will  serve  to  prevent  any  mistake.    The  fetus  may  still  be  felt  through 


158  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

the  rectum  if  the  abdomen  is  raised  by  a  sheet  passed  from  side  to 
side  beneath  it. 

Still  another  sign  is  the  beating  of  the  fetal  heart,  which  may  be 
heard  in  the  latter  half  of  pregnancy  when  the  ear  is  pressed  on  the 
flank  in  front  of  the  right  stifle  or  from  that  downward  to  the  udder. 
The  beats,  which  are  best  heard  in  the  absence  of  rumbling,  are 
about  120  a  minute  and  easily  distinguished  from  any  bowel  sounds 
by  their  perfect  regularity. 

DURATION  OF  PREGNANCY. 

From  extended  statistics  it  is  found  that  the  average  duration  of 
pregnancy  in  the  cow  is  285  days.  A  calf  born  at  the  two  hundred 
and  fortieth  day  may  live,  and  Dietrichs  reported  a  case  of  a  calf 
born  on  the  three  hundred  and  thirty-fifth  day,  and  another  was 
reported  by  the  American  Journal  of  Medical  Science  as  having  been 
born  on  the  three  hundred  and  thirty-sixth  day.  It  is  the  general 
observation  that  in  most  cases  of  prolonged  pregnancies  the  offspring 
are  males.  Lord  Spencer  found  a  preponderance  of  males  between 
the  tAvo  hundred  and  ninetieth  and  the  three  hundredth  days,  but 
strangely  enough  all  born  after  the  three  hundredth  day  under  his 
observation  were  females.  It  may  be  reasonably  inferred  that  while 
the  prevailing  tendenc}^  is  to  carrj'^  the  males  overtime,  yet  that  the 
smaller  and  comparatively  much  less  developed  female  sometimes 
fails  to  stimulate  the  womb  to  contraction  until  very  far  beyond  the 
regular  date. 

HYGIENE  OF  THE  PREGNANT  COW. 

Among  domestic  animals  considerations  of  hygiene  must  be  made 
subservient  to  profit,  and  therefore  the  first  consideration  is  not  to 
obtain  the  most  robust  health,  but  such  a  measure  of  vigor  and 
stamina  as  is  compatible  with  the  most  profitable  utilization  of  the 
animal.  The  breeding  cow  must  carry  a  calf  every  year,  and  this 
notwithstanding  that  she  is  at  the  same  time  suckling  another  large, 
growing  calf.  The  dairy  cow  must  breed  every  year,  and  at  the  same 
time  must  furnish  a  generous  flow  of  milk  from  nine  to  eleven 
months  yearly.  If  her  health  is  lowered  thereby  or  her  life  short- 
ened, the  question  of  profit  must  still  hold  sway,  and,  when  dis- 
qualified, she  must  yield  her  place  to  another.  There  are  exceptions, 
of  course,  but  this  rule  generally  holds. 

There  are  certain  points,  however,  in  which  the  interests  of  hygiene 
may  be  considered.  The  pregnant  cow  should  have  exercise,  and  as 
regards  both  exercise  and  feed,  nothing  is  better  than  a  run  on  a 
smooth  pasture.  She  should  be  withheld  from  all  violent  excitement, 
hunting  with  dogs,  riding  or  being  ridden  by  cows  in  heat,  driving  in 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  159 

herd  rapidl}'  through  narrow  gateways,  causing  to  jump  ditches  or 
fences,  subjecting  to  blows  with  the  horns  of  pugnacious  cattle,  driv- 
ing on  icy  or  otherwise  slippery  ground,  carrying  in  railroad  cars, 
kicking  by  vicious  attendants,  and  fastening  or  throwing  down  for 
operations.  The  diet  should  be  good,  not  of  a  kind  to  fatten,  but  with 
a  generous  quantity  of  nitrogenous  constituents  which  will  favor 
both  the  yield  of  milk  and  the  nourishment  of  the  fetus.  Aliments 
like  wheat  bran,  middlings,  etc.,  which  are  rich  in  lime  and  phos- 
phates, can  be  used  to  advantage,  as  there  is  a  constant  drain  of 
earthy  salts  for  the  building  of  the  body  of  the  calf,  and  thereby 
the  danger  of  undue  concentration  of  the  urine  is  lessened.  Hard, 
innutritions,  and  indigestible  aliments,  musty  grain  or  hay,  par- 
tially ripened  rye  grass,  millet,  Hungarian  grass,  vetches,  peas, 
or  maize  are  objectionable,  as  they  are  liable  to  cause  indiges- 
tion or  even  paralysis ;  and  corn  or  hay  affected  by  smut  or  ergot,  or 
that  have  been  spoiled  by  wet,  overripened,  and  rendered  fibrous  and 
innutritions,  are  equally  objectionable.  In  the  main  the  feed  should 
be  laxative,  as  costiveness  and  straining  are  liable  to  cause  abortion. 
Eoots  and  green  feed  that  have  been  frosted  are  objectionable,  as 
being  liable  to  cause  indigestion,  though  in  their  fresh  condition  most 
wholesome  and  desirable.  Ice-cold  water  should  be  avoided,  as  cal- 
culated to  check  the  flow  of  milk,  to  derange  digestion,  and  to  cause 
abortion.  A  good  temperature  for  the  drink  of  the  dairy  cow  is 
55°  F. 

In  the  case  of  plethoric  and  heavy-milking  cows  of  mature  age  and 
in  the  prime  of  life,  the  hitherto  liberal  diet  must  be  changed  at  the 
last  week  for  the  scantiest  possible  fare,  and  the  bowels  must  be  kept 
open  by  laxatives,  if  need  be,  if  the  owner  would  avoid  milk  fever. 
The  pregnant  cow  should  be  kept  away  from  the  sight  and  odor  of 
dead  carcasses,  from  the  smell  of  decomposing  animal  matter,  and 
from  stagnant  and  corrupting  water.  Her  stall  should  not  incline 
downward  from  shoulder  to  croup,  lest  the  pressure  of  the  abdominal 
organs  should  produce  protrusion  or  abortion.  She  should  be  kept 
aloof  from  all  causes  of  acute  diseases,  and  all  existing  diseases  should 
be  remedied  speedily  and  with  as  little  excitement  of  the  abdominal 
organs  as  possible.  Strong  purgatives  and  diuretics  are  to  be  espe- 
cially avoided,  unless  it  is  in  the  very  last  days  of  gestation  in  very 
plethoric  cows. 

Finally,  in  the  case  of  pure  breeds,  close  association  with  animals 
of  other  breeds  or  crosses,  or  with  animals  of  other  colors,  forms,  or 
with  defects,  is  to  be  carefully  guarded  against.  The  effects  shown 
in  the  progeny  may  be  exceptional,  yet  they  are  none  the  less  sources 
of  preventable  loss. 


160  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

PROTRUSION  OF  THE  VAGINA   (PROLAPSUS  VAGINA). 

During  pregnancy  this  is  common  from  chronic  relaxation  of  the 
vaginal  walls  and  from  lying  in  stalls  that  are  lower  behind  than  in 
front.  The  protusion  is  of  a  rounded  form  and  smooth,  and  if  it 
embraces  both  sides  of  the  canal  it  is  double,  with  a  passage  between. 
It  may  sometimes  be  remedied  by  raising  the  hind  part  of  the  stall 
higher  than  the  front  part.  This  failing,  a  truss  may  be  applied  as 
for  eversion  of  the  womb,  and  worn  until  the  period  of  calving 
approaches.     (Pis.  XXII,  XXIII.) 

HERNIA   (BREACH)   OF  THE  UTERUS. 

In  advanced  pregnancy  this  occurs  usually  from  a  gradual  relaxa- 
tion and  distention  of  the  lower  wall  of  the  abdomen  in  the  region  of 
the  udder,  so  that  the  latter  is  displaced  downward,  and  in  the  sac 
above  and  in  fi'ont  of  it  may  be  felt  the  form  and  movements  of  the 
fetus.  In  other  cases  the  womb  escapes  through  a  great  laceration  of 
the  abdominal  muscles  to  one  side  of  the  udder,  and  the  hernial  mass 
extends  down  to  one  side  of  that  organ.  However  unsightly,  this 
often  allows  the  animal  to  complete  its  pregnancy  naturally,  and  a 
broad,  supporting  bandage  placed  around  the  abdomen  is  about  all 
that  can  be  recommended.    After  calving  it  is  best  to  fatten  the  cow. 

CRAMPS  OF  THE  HIND  LIMBS. 

The  compression  of  the  nerves  by  the  womb  and  fetus  passing 
through  the  pelvis  sometimes  causes  cramp  and  inability  to  move  the 
limb,  but  it  disappears  under  friction  and  motion  and  is  never  seen 
after  calving. 

DROPSY  OF  THE  HIND  LIMBS  AND  BETWEEN  THE  THIGHS. 

In  the  latter  months  of  pregnancy  the  hind  legs  ma}'^  swell  beneath 
the  hocks,  or  a  soft  swelling  which  pits  on  pressure  with  the  finger 
appears  from  the  vulva  down  between  the  thighs  to  the  udder  and  in 
front.  It  is  mainly  ascribable  to  the  pressure  of  the  enlarged  womb 
on  the  blood  vessels,  is  not  dangerous,  and  disappears  after  calving. 

DROPSY  OF  THE  MEMBRANES  OF  THE  FETUS  (DROPSY  OF  THE 

WOMB). 

The  imimpregnated  womb  may  be  filled  with  a  dropsical  fluid,  but 
the  pregnant  womb  is  more  liable  to  become  overdistended  by  an 
excess  of  fluid  in  the  inner  water  bag  in  which  the  fetus  floats.  (PI. 
XII.)  From  an  unhealthy  state  of  this  membrane  or  of  blood  of 
the  fetus  (water  blood)  this  liquid  may  go  on  accumulating  until 
the  cow  seems  almost  as  broad  as  she  is  long.  If  the  trouble  has  not 
originated  in  the  ill  health  of  the  cow,  the  result  is  still  to  draw  on 
her  system,  overtax  her  strength,  and  derange  her  digestion,  so  that 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENEEATIVE    ORGANS.  161 

the  result  may  prove  fatal  to  both  mother  and  offspring.  On  the 
other  hand,  I  have  known  extreme  cases  that  came  to  the  natural  term 
without  help  and  produced  a  living  calf,  after  wdiich  the  dam  did 
well.  The  natural  resort  is  to  draw  off  a  portion  of  the  fluid  through 
a  hollow  needle  passed  through  the  neck  of  the  womb  or  through  its 
tense  wall  adjacent.  This  may  be  repeated  several  times,  as  de- 
manded, to  relieve  the  cow  from  the  injurious  distention. 

PARALYSIS  OF  THE  HIND  PARTS. 

In  ill-fed,  weak,  unthrifty  cows  palsy  of  the  hind  limbs  and  tail 
may  appear  in  the  last  weeks  of  pregnancy.  The  anus  and  rectum 
may  participate  in  the  palsy  so  far  as  to  prevent  defecation,  and  the 
rectum  is  more  or  less  completely  impacted.  Exposure  to  wet  and 
cold  are  often  accessory  causes,  though  the  low  condition,  general 
weakness,  and  the  pressure  on  the  nerves  going  to  the  hind  limbs  are 
not  to  be  forgotten.  Something  may  be  done  for  these  cases  by  a 
warm,  dry  bed,  an  abundant  diet  fed  warm,  frictions  with  straw 
wisps  or  with  a  liniment  of  equal  parts  of  oil  of  turpentine  and  sweet 
oil  on  the  loins,  croup,  and  limbs,  by  the  daily  use  of  ginger  and  gen- 
tian, by  the  cautious  administration  of  strychnia  (1  grain  twice 
daily),  and  by  sending  a  current  of  electricity  daily  from  the  loins 
through  the  various  groups  of  muscles  in  the  hind  limbs.  The  case 
becomes  increasingly  hopeful  after  calving,  though  some  days  may 
still  elapse  before  the  animal  can  support  herself  upon  her  limbs. 

EXTRAUTERINE   GESTATION   (FETUS  DEVELOPING  OUTSIDE  THE 

WOMB). 

These  curious  cases  are  rare  and  are  usually  divided  into  three 
types:  (1)  That  in  which  the  fetus  is  formed  in  or  on  the  ovary 
(ovarian  gestation)  ;  (2)  that  in  which  it  is  lodged  in  the  Fallopian 
tube,  or  canal  between  the  ovary  and  womb  (tubal  gestation)  ;  and 
(3)  that  in  which  it  is  lodged  in  the  abdominal  cavity  and  attached 
to  one  or  more  of  its  contents  from  which  it  draws  its  nourishment 
(abdominal  gestation).  Undoubted  cases  of  the  first  and  last  varie- 
ties are  recorded  as  occurring  in  the  cow.  The  explanation  of  such 
cases  is  to  be  found  in  the  fact  that  the  activel)^  moving  sperm  cells 
(spermatozoa)  thrown  into  the  womb  have  made  their  way  through 
the  Fallopian  tubes  to  the  ovary.  If  they  met  and  impregnated  an 
ovum  in  the  tube,  and  if  the  consequent  growth  of  that  ovum  pre- 
vented its  descent  and  caused  its  imprisonment  within  the  tube,  it 
developed  there,  getting  attached  to  and  drawing  nourishment  from 
the  mucous  walls.  Such  product  has  its  development  arrested  by 
compression  by  the  undilatable  tube,  or,  bursting  through  the  walls 
33071°— 16 11 


162  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

of  the  tube,  it  escapes  into  the  abdomen  and  perishes.  If,  on  the 
contrary,  the  spermatozoa  only  meet  and  impregnate  the  ovum  on  or 
in  the  ovary,  the  development  may  take  place  in  the  substance  of  the 
ovary,  from  which  the  fetus  draws  its  nourishment,  or  the  impreg- 
nated ovum,  escaping  between  the  ovary  and  the  open  end  of  the 
tube,  falls  into  the  abdominal  cavity  and  becomes  adherent  to  and 
draws  nourishment  from  some  of  the  abdominal  organs  (womb, 
bowel,  liver,  stomach,  etc.) 

Symptoms. — The  symptoms  are  those  of  pregnancy,  which  may 
be  suddenly  complicated  by  inflammation  (peritonitis),  owing  to 
rupture  of  the  sac  containing  the  fetus;  or  at  full  term  signs  of 
calving  appear,  but  no  progress  is  made;  an  examination  with  the 
oiled  hand  in  the  vagina  or  rectum  finds  the  womb  empty  and  its 
mouth  closed.  Further  examination  will  disclose  the  fetal  sac  at- 
tached in  some  part  of  the  abdominal  cavity  and  containing  the 
more  or  less  perfectly  developed  body  of  a  calf.  In  the  most  hope- 
ful cases  the  fetus  perishes  at  an  early  stage  of  gestation,  becomes 
inclosed  in  a  fibrous  sac,  and  is  slowly  absorbed,  its  soft  parts  becom- 
ing liquefied  and  removed  and  the  bones  remaining  encysted.  In 
some  cases  the  bones  have  finally  sloughed  into  the  rectum  or  through 
an  artificial  opening  in  the  side  of  the  belly. 

Treatment. — Little  can  be  done  in  such  cases  except  to  quiet  pain 
and  excitement  by  anodynes  (opium,  chloral,  etc.)  and  leave  the  rest 
to  nature.  A  fistula  discharging  bones  may  be  dilated  and  the  bones 
extracted,  the  sac  being  then  washed  out  with  a  solution  of  10  grains 
bichlorid  of  mercury  in  a  quart  of  water.  In  certain  cases  with  a 
live  calf  a  skillful  operator  may  be  justified  in  cutting  into  the  abdo- 
men and  extracting  the  calf  with  its  membranes,  using  the  lotion  just 
named  as  an  antiseptic. 

PROLONGED  RETENTION  OF  THE  FETUS. 

Even  when  the  fetus  has  developed  within  the  womb  it  may  fail  to 
be  delivered  at  the  proper  time;  labor  pains  have  quickly  subsided 
and  the  cow  resumed  her  usual  health.  In  such  cases  the  calf  dies, 
and  its  soft  parts  are  gradually  liquefied  and  absorbed,  while  its  bones 
remain  for  years  in  the  womb  inclosed  in  the  remains  of  the  fetal 
membranes.  These  may  be  expelled  at  any  time  through  the  natural 
channels,  or  they  may  remain  indefinitely  in  the  womb,  not  interfer- 
ing with  the  general  health,  but  preventing  conception. 

If  the  true  condition  of  things  is  recognized  at  the  time  of  the  sub- 
sidence of  the  labor  pains,  the  mouth  of  the  womb  may  be  dilated  by 
the  fingers,  by  the  insertion  of  sponge  tents,  or  by  a  mechanical 
dilator  (PI.  XX,  fig.  6),  the  fetal  membranes  may  be  ruptured  and 
the  calf  extracted.    After  the  removal  of  the  calf  and  its  membranes 


DISEASES   OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  163 

the  danger  of  putrid  poisoning  may  be  obviated  by  injecting  the 
antiseptic  solution  advised  in  the  paragraph  above. 

ABORTION  (SLINKING  THE  CALF). 

Technically,  abortion  is  the  term  used  for  the  expulsion  of  the  off- 
spring before  it  can  live  out  of  the  womb.  Its  expulsion  before  the 
normal  time,  but  after  it  is  capable  of  an  independent  existence,  is 
premature  parturition.  In  the  cow  this  may  be  after  seven  and  one- 
half  months  of  pregnancy.  Earl  Spencer  failed  to  raise  any  calf  born 
before  the  two  hundred  and  forty-second  day.  Dairymen  use  the 
term  abortion  for  the  expulsion  of  the  product  of  conception  at  any 
time  before  the  completion  of  the  full  period  of  a  normal  pregnancy, 
and  in  this  sense  it  will  be  used  in  this  article. 

Abortion  in  cows  is  either  contagious  or  noncontagious.  It  does 
not  follow  that  the  contagium  is  the  sole  cause  in  every  case  in  which 
it  is  present.  We  know  that  the  organized  germs  (microbes)  of 
contagion  vary  much  in  potency  at  different  times,  and  that  the  ani- 
mal system  also  varies  in  susceptibility  to  their  attack.  The  germ 
may  therefore  be  present  in  a  herd  without  any  manifest  injury,  its 
disease-producing  power  having  for  the  time  abated  considerably, 
or  the  whole  herd  being  in  a  condition  of  comparative  insuscepti- 
bility. At  other  times  the  same  germ  may  have  become  so  virulent 
that  almost  all  pregnant  cows  succumb  to  its  force,  or  the  herd  may 
have  been  subjected  to  other  causes  of  abortion  which,  though  of 
themselves  powerless  to  actually  cause  abortion,  may  yet  so  predis- 
pose the  animals  that  even  the  weaker  germ  will  operate  with  de- 
structive effect.  In  dealing  with  this  disease,  therefore,  it  is  the  part 
of  wisdom  not  to  rest  satisfied  with  the  discovery  and  removal  of 
one  specific  cause,  but  rather  to  try  to  find  every  existent  cause  and 
to  obtain  a  remedy  by  correcting  all  the  harmful  conditions. 

NONCONTAGIOUS  ABORTION. 

As  abortion  most  frequently  occurs  at  those  three-week  intervals 
at  which  the  cow  would  have  been  in  heat  if  nonpregnant,  we  may 
assume  a  predisposition  at  such  times  owing  to  a  periodicity  in  the 
nervous  system  and  functions.  Poor  condition,  weakness,  and  a  too 
watery  state  of  the  blood  is  often  a  predisposing  cause.  This  in  its 
turn  may  result  from  poor  or  insufficient  feed,  from  the  excessive 
drain  upon  the  udder  while  bearing  the  calf,  from  the  use  of  feed 
deficient  in  certain  essential  elements,  like  the  nitrogenous  constitu- 
ents or  albuminoids,  from  chronic,  wasting  diseases,  from  round- 
worms or  tapeworms  in  the  bowels,  from  flatworms  (flukes,  trema- 
todes)  in  the  liver,  from  worms  in  the  lungs,  from  dark,  damp,  un- 
healthful  buildings,  etc.     In  some  such  cases  the  nourishment  is  so 


164  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

deficient  that  the  fetus  dies  in  the  womb  and  is  expelled  in  conse- 
quence. Excessive  loss  of  blood,  attended  as  it  usually  is  with  shock, 
becomes  a  direct  cause  of  abortion. 

Acute  inflammations  of  important  organs  are  notorious  causes  of 
abortion,  and  in  most  contagious  fevers  (lung  plague,  rinderpest, 
foot-and-mouth  disease)  it  is  a  common  result.  xVffections  of  the 
chest  which  prevent  due  aeration  of  the  blood  induce  contractions  of 
the  womb,  as  shown  experimentally  by  Brown-Sequard.  Pregnant 
women  suffocated  in  smoke  aborted  in  many  cases.     (Retoul.) 

Ergoted  grasses  have  long  been  known  as  a  cause  of  widespread 
abortion  in  cows.  The  ergot  is  familiar  as  the  dark  purple  or  black, 
hard,  spurlike  growths  which  protrude  from  the  seeds  of  the  grasses 
at  the  period  of  their  ripening.  (PL  V.)  It  is  especially  common 
in  damp  localities  and  cloudy  seasons  on  meadows  shaded  by  trees 
and  protected  against  the  free  sweep  of  the  winds.  The  same  is  to 
a  large  extent  true  of  smut;  hence,  wet  years  have  been  often  re- 
markable for  the  great  prevalence  of  abortions.  Abortions  have 
greatly  increased  in  New  Zealand  among  cows  since  the  introduction 
of  rye  grass,  which  is  specially  subject  to  ergot.  As  abortion  is  more 
prevalent  in  old  dairying  districts,  the  ergot  may  not  be  the  sole 
cause  in  this  instance. 

The  riding  of  one  another  by  cows  is  attended  by  such  severe  mus- 
cular exertion,  jars,  jolts,  mental  excitement,  and  gravitation  of  the 
womb  and  abdominal  organs  backward  that  it  may  easily  cause 
abortion  in  a  predisposed  animal. 

Keeping  in  stalls  that  slope  too  much  behind  (more  than  2  inches) 
acts  in  the  same  way,  the  compression  from  lying  and  the  gravita- 
tion backward  proving  more  than  a  predisposed  cow  can  safely  bear. 

Deep  gutters  behind  the  stalls,  into  w^hich  one  or  both  hind  limbs 
slip  unexpectedly,  strain  the  loins  and  jar  the  body  and  womb  most 
injuriously.  Slippery  stalls  in  which  the  flooring  boards  are  laid 
longitudinally  in  place  of  transversely,  and  on  which  there  is  no 
device  to  give  a  firm  foothold,  are  almost  equally  dangerous.  Driv- 
ing on  icy  ground,  or  through  a  narrow  doorway  where  the  abdomen 
is  liable  to  be  jammed,  are  other  common  causes.  Aborting  cows 
often  fail  to  expel  the  afterbirth,  and  if  this  remains  hanging  in  a 
putrid  condition  it  is  most  injurious  to  pregnant  cows  in  the  near 
vicinity.  So  with  retained  afterbirth  in  other  cows  after  calving. 
That  some  cow^s  kept  in  filthy  stables  or  with  slaughterhouses  near  by 
may  become  inured  to  the  odors  and  escape  the  evil  results  is  no 
disproof  of  the  injurious  effects  so  often  seen  in  such  cases. 

The  excitement,  jarring,  and  jolting  of  a  railroad  journey  often 
cause  abortion,  especially  as  the  cow  nears  the  period  of  calving,  and 
the  terror  or  injury  of  railway  or  other  accidents  prove  incom- 
parably worse. 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  165 

All  irritant  poisons  cause  abortions  by  the  disorder  and  inflamma- 
tion of  the  digestive  organs,  and  if  such  agents  act  also  on  the  kidneys 
or  womb,  the  effect  is  materially  enhanced.  Powerful  purgatives  or 
diuretics  should  never  be  administered  to  the  pregnant  cow. 

Among  other  causes  of  abortion  must  be  named  the  death  or  the 
various  illnesses  of  the  fetus,  which  are  about  as  numerous  as  those 
of  the  adult;  the  slipping  of  a  young  fetus  through  a  loop  in  the 
navel  string  so  as  to  tie  a  knot  which  will  tighten  later  and  interrupt 
the  flow  of  blood  with  fatal  effect,  and  the  twisting  of  the  navel 
string  by  the  turning  of  the  fetus  until  little  or  no  blood  can  flow 
through  the  contorted  cord.  There  is  in  addition  a  series  of  diseases 
of  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  womb,  and  of  the  fetal  membranes 
(inflammation,  effusion  of  blood,  detachment  of  the  membranes  from 
the  womb,  fatty  or  other  degenerations,  etc.),  which  interfere  with 
the  supply  of  blood  to  the  fetus  or  change  its  quality  so  that  death 
is  the  natural  result,  followed  by  abortion. 

Treatment. — Although  the  first  symptoms  of  abortion  have  ap- 
p'^ared,  it  does  not  follow  that  it  will  go  on  to  completion.  So  long 
as  the  fetus  has  not  perished,  if  the  waters  have  not  been  discharged, 
nor  the  water  bags  presented,  attempts  should  be  made  to  check  its 
progress.  Every  appreciable  and  removable  cause  should  be  done 
aAvay  with,  the  cow  should  be  placed  in  a  quiet  stall  alone,  and  agents 
given  to  check  the  excitement  of  the  labor  pains.  Laudanum  in 
doses  of  1  ounce  for  a  small  cow  or  2  ounces  for  a  large  one  should 
be  promptly  administered,  and  repeated  in  three  or  four  hours 
should  the  labor  pains  recur.  This  may  be  kept  up  for  days  or  even 
weeks  if  necessary,  though  that  is  rarely  required,  as  the  trouble 
either  subsides  or  abortion  occurs.  If  the  laudanum  seems  to  lack 
permanency  of  action,  use  bromid  of  potassium,  or,  better,  extract 
of  Viburnum  prunif oliumj  (black  haw),  40  grains,  at  intervals  of 
two  or  three  hours  until  five  or  six  doses  have  been  given 

CONTAGIOUS  ABORTION. 

Contagious  abortion  (also  known  as  epizootic  abortion,  enzootic 
abortion,  and  slinking  of  calves)  is  a  disease  affecting  chiefly  cattle 
and  to  a  lesser  degree  other  domestic  animals,  and  characterized  by 
an  inflammatory  condition  of  the  female  reproductive  organs,  which 
results  in  the  expulsion  of  the  immature  young. 

History. — This  disease  has  been  known  in  England  and  continental 
Europe  for  many  years,  and  descriptions  of  it  are  mentioned  in  the 
writings  of  Mascal,  Lafoose,  Skellet,  Lawrence,  St.  Cyr,  Ziindel,  and 
Youatt.  In  the  early  part  of  the  eighteenth  century  British  veter- 
inarians recognized  its  contagiousness,  but  it  remained  for  Franck 
(1876),  Lehnert  (1878),  and  Brauer  (1880)  to  produce  the  disease  in 


166  DISEASES  OF   CATTLE. 

healthy,  pregnant  cows  by  the  introduction  of  exudate  and  material 
from  aborting  animals.  Nocard  (1888)  isolated  from  the  exudate 
between  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  uterus  and  fetal  membranes 
a  micrococcus  and  a  short  bacillus  which  were  found  continually 
in  contagious  abortion,  but  he  failed  to  reproduce  the  disease  by 
inoculations  of  pure  cultures  of  these  organisms  into  healthy,  preg- 
nant animals.  In  1897  Bang,  assisted  by  Stribolt,  published  their 
findings  regarding  infectious  abortion  of  cattle,  in  which  they  in- 
criminated Bang's  bacillus  of  abortion  as  the  causative  agent.  With 
pure  cultures  of  this  bacillus  they  were  able  to  produce  the  disease 
artificially  and  to  recover  the  same  organism  from  the  experimental 
cases.  Since  that  time  many  noted  investigators,  both  in  this  country 
and  in  Europe,  have  confirmed  these  findings. 

Cause. — The  Bacillus  abortus  of  Bang  is  now  generally  recognized 
as  the  causative  agent  of  the  disease  of  cattle.  Formerly  it  was 
thought  that  abortion  was  due  to  injury,  such  as  blows,  horn  thrusts, 
falls,  etc.,  or  the  eating  of  spoiled  feed  and  certain  plants,  and  while 
this  may  be  true  in  a  limited  number  of  cases,  careful  investigations 
have  demonstrated  these  claims  to  be  largely  unfounded.  It  is  now 
generally  recognized  that  when  abortion  occurs  in  herds  from  time 
to  time,  it  is  safe  to  assume  that  the  disorder  is  of  an  infectious 
nature  and  should  be  so  treated. 

Natural  mode  of  infection. — This  phase  of  the  disease  is  of  greatest 
importance  for  a  clear  understanding  of  the  methods  of  prevention. 
Many  investigators  claim  to  have  demonstrated  that  the  infection  is 
transmitted  through  the  digestive  tract,  by  consuming  contaminated 
feed  and  water.  The  germs  are  taken  up  by  the  body  from  the  in- 
testines with  the  liquid  nourishment,  reach  the  blood,  and  are  carried 
to  the  genital  organs,  where  they  find  conditions  best  suited  to  their 
development.  Some  assert  that  calves  are  infected  in  this  manner 
by  suckling  infected  mothers,  the  germs  being  present  in  the  milk, 
or  the  teats  having  been  contaminated  by  coming  in  contact  with  in- 
fective discharges.  It  is  claimed  that  infection  contracted  in  this 
■manner  remains  dormant  in  the  body  of  the  calf  until  pregnancy 
begins,  and  then  the  organism,  finding  conditions  suitable  for  its  de- 
velopment, produces  the  disease. 

Abortion  may  be  transmitted  from  cow  to  cow  by  direct  contact. 
The  discharges  from  diseased  cows,  swarming  with  the  germs,  soil 
the  external  genitals,  tail,  and  hind,  quarters,  and  then  a  susceptible 
animal,  by  contact,  gets  the  infective  material  upon  the  vulva,  the 
infection  traveling  up  the  genital  canal  and  directly  infecting  the 
uterus. 

The  most  important  and  most  frequent  mode  of  infection,  however, 
is  that  occurring  through  the  act  of  copulation.  The  bull,  having 
become  infected  by  serving  an  infected  cow,  carries  the  infection 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  167 

directly  into  the  uterus  of  the  susceptible  animal  at  the  time  of 
service.  Cows  of  all  ages  are  more  or  less  susceptible,  but  young 
ones  in  first  or  second  pregnancy  most  frequently  abort.  A  second 
abortion  is  not  unusual,  and  a  third  may  occasionally  occur,  after 
which  the  cow  usually  becomes  immune  and  thereafter  carries  her 
calf  to  maturity.  Heifers  from  aborting  mothers  sometimes  seem  to 
be  less  susceptible  than  others. 

Symptoms. — Contagious  abortion  is  a  very  insidious  disease,  de- 
veloping very  slowly  through  several  months  of  the  gestation  period, 
and  resulting  finally  in  the  expulsion  of  the  immature  young,  this  act 
being  simply  an  indication  of  the  presence  of  the  disease  and  not  the 
disease  itself.  Because  of, this  slow  development  and  the  fact  that 
the  health  of  the  animal  is  not  noticeably  influenced,  the  presence 
of  the  disease  may  not  be  suspected  until  it  has  gained  a  firm  foot- 
hold in  the  herd.  The  symptoms  of  approaching  abortion  are  those 
preceding  normal  calving.  In  addition,  there  may  be  observed,  a 
few  days  previous  to  abortion,  a  sticky,  sometimes  purulent,  rusty, 
and  odorless  discharge.  Abortion  occurs  most  frequently  from  the 
third  to  the  seventh  month,  according  to  the  number  of  abortions, 
occurring  early  in  first  abortion,  and  later  in  each  succeeding  abor- 
tion until  the  calf  is  carried  full  term  and  the  mother  has  become 
immune.  It  happens  frequently  that  calves  are  carried  almost  to 
full  term,  and  are  born  alive,  but  are  sickly,  and  soon  die.  Following 
abortion  there  is  a  dirty,  yellowish-gray  mucopurulent  discharge 
which  persists  for  two  or  more  weeks.  If  abortion  occurs  early,  the 
fetus  is  passed  surrounded  by  its  membranes,  but  if  late  in  the  period 
of  pregnancy,  the  membranes  are  retained,  decomposition  sets  in  and 
blood  poisoning,  which  may  cause  the  death  of  the  animal,  or 
sterility  may  result. 

Lesions. — The  most  characteristic  change  is  found  in  the  uterus 
where  a  dark-brown  fluid,  purulent  or  even  gluey  in  consistency, 
and  containing  grayish-white  flakes  separates  the  material  mem- 
branes from  those  of  the  fetus,  preventing  that  intimate  contact 
between  the  two  which  is  so  necessary  for  the  interchange  of  fluids 
and  gases  by  which  the  fetus  is  nourished  and  by  which  it  obtains 
its  oxygen.  These  being  cut  off,  the  fetus  must  of  course  die.  The 
germs  producing  the  disease  are  found  in  greatest  numbers  at  this 
point.  In  addition  there  may  be  inflammatory  changes,  first  in  the 
walls  of  the  uterus  and  then  in  the  tissues  of  the  fetus.  These  in- 
flammatory changes  seem  most  intense  in  the  cotyledons  and  result 
in  the  destruction  of  the  minute  structure  of  those  bodies,  and  they 
appear  swollen,  pale,  and  soft.  The  membrane  of  the  uterus  between 
the  cotyledons  also  may  show  inflamed  and  necrotic  patches. 

Complications. — Serious  results  sometimes  follow  abortion,  and 
this  is  particularly  the  case  when  there  is  retained  afterbirth.     The 


168  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

retained  membranes  decompose,  the  poisonous  products  of  decompo- 
sition and  the  organisms  of  decomposition  themselves  are  absorbed, 
blood  poisoning  results,  and  the  animal  dies.  Sometimes,  Tvhen  the 
animal  is  able  to  resist  the  effects  of  this  decomposition,  the  uterus 
becomes  the.  seat  of  such  severe  changes  that  sterility  results.  The 
walls  of  that  organ  become  thickened  and  hard,  the  lining  mem- 
branes become  eroded,  and  conception  can  not  take  place.  At  other 
times  the  ovaries,  where  the  reppilductive  cells  originate,  become 
affected  and  lose  their  function.  Abortion  does  not  invariably  fol- 
low infection,  but  the  calf  is  carried  to  full  term.  In  these  cases, 
however,  retained  afterbirth  is  a  common  occurrence,  even  to  the 
extent  that  frequent  retention  of  afterbirth  in  a  herd  may  be  taken 
as  an  indication  of  the  presence  of  the  disease.  Very  often  sup- 
purative processes  persist  for  a  long  time,  preventing  conception,  or 
sterility  may  result  without  apparent  cause.  A  sterile  cow  is  value- 
less, of  course,  for  any  purpose  except  for  beef.  Such  animals  are 
a  source  of  infection  for  the  others  and  should  not  be  allowed  to 
remain  in  the  herd. 

Diagnosis. — The  diagnosis  of  infectious  abortion  is  made  from 
the  changes  occurring  in  the  fetal  membranes  and  in  the  expelled 
fetus.  This,  however,  is  substantiatecTwith  certainty  only  by  micro- 
scopic demonstration  of  the  germ  of  abortion.  The  fact  that  re- 
peated abortions  are  observed  in  a  herd  is  also  evidence  of  the 
presence  of  the  disease.  In  consideration,  however,  of  the  fact  that 
animals  may  be  affected  with  the  disease  and  disseminate  the  germs, 
even  though  they  carry  the  fetus  to  full  time,  a  diagnosis  in  such 
instances  is  only  possible  by  laboratory  methods.  For  this  purpose 
the  agglutination  and  also  the  complement-fixation  tests  are  being 
used  with  splendid  results,  and  by  the  aid  of  these  biological  tests 
it  is  possible  to  determine  all  infected  animals  in  a  herd.  The  tests 
are  carried  out  with  the  serum  from  animals  to  be  examined,  only 
a  teaspoonful  of  serum  being  necessary  for  the  execution  of  both  of 
these  tests.  It,  however,  has  to  be  confined  to  laboratories  which  are 
properly  equipped  for  such  work. 

Treatment  and  'prevention. — It  may  be  said  in  general  that  treat- 
ment is  without  aA^ail  and  all  efforts  should  be  directed  toward  pre- 
vention. Various  medicinal  agents,  such  as  carbolic  acid  adminis- 
tered subcutaneously  and  methylene  blue  fed  in  large  quantities, 
have  been  recommended,  but  have  failed  to  stand  the  tests  of  scien- 
tific investigation  and  practical  use.  Serums  and  vaccines  have 
also  been  prepared  and  sold  as  cures  and  preventives,  but  the  work 
is  still  considered  in  the  experimental  stage. 

Bacterial  vaccines  are  at  present  extensively  used  in  the  control 
of  this  disease,  and  while  numerous  reports  indicate  beneficial  re- 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  169 

suits  from  their  administration,  in  other  instances  total  failures  have 
been  recorded.  It  appears  that  the  experiments  in  this  line  have  not 
progressed  sufficiently  to  justify  definite  conclusions. 

Prevention  consists  largely  in  sanitary  measures  directed  toward 
the  disinfection  of  premises  and  animals.  For  a  method  for  disinfec- 
tion of  premises  see  page  361. 

The  following  procedure  is  advised  for  the  disinfection  of  animals : 
To  prevent  the  bull  from  carrying  the  infection  from  a  diseased  cow 
to  a  healthy  one,  first  clip  the  tuft  of  long  hair  from  the  opening  of 
the  sheath,  then  disinfect  the  penis  and  sheath  with  a  solution  of  0.5 
per  cent  of  compound  cresol  solution,  lysol,  or  trikresol,  or  1  per 
cent  carbolic  acid,  or  1  to  1,000  potassium  permanganate  in  warm 
water.  The  only  apparatus  necessary  is  a  soft-rubber  tube  with  a 
large  funnel  attached  to  one  end,  or  an  ordinary  fountain  syringe 
and  tube  would  serve  the  purpose.  The  tube  should  be  inserted  into 
the  sheath  and  the  foreskin  held  with  the  hand  to  prevent  the 
immediate  escape  of  the  fluid.  Elevate  the  funnel  as  much  as  possible 
and  pour  the  fluid  in  until  the  preputial  sac  is  filled.  In  addition 
to  this  the  hair  of  the  belly  and  inner  sides  of  the  thigh  should  be 
sponged  Avith  the  antiseptic.  This  disinfection  should  invariably  pre- 
cede and  follow  every  service." 

An  aborting  cow  should  receive  immediate  attention,  and  the  ani- 
mal should  be  removed  to  separate  quarters  where  she  can  receive 
appropriate  treatment.  The  fetus,  membranes,  and  discharges  are 
particularly  dangerous  and  should  be  gathered- up  and  destroyed 
immediately  by  burning  or  by  burial  in  some  safe  place,  followed  by 
thoroughly  disinfecting  the  stall.  The  uterus  should  be  irrigated 
daily  with  one  of  the  antiseptics  mentioned  for  the  bull,  using  the 
same  apparatus,  and  irrigation  should  be  continued  until  discharge 
ceases.  In  addition,  the  external  genitals,  root  of  tail,  escutcheon, 
etc.,  should  be  sponged  daily  with  a  solution  twice  as  strong  as  that 
used  for  irrigation;  this  latter  treatment  should  be  given  the  non- 
aborters  as  well.  Should  the  preliminary  symptoms  of  abortion  be 
detected,  the  animal  should  be  removed  from  the  herd  and  treated 
us  above. 

After  abortion,  breeding  should  not  again  be  attempted  within  two 
months,  or  until  the  discharge  shall  have  ceased,  as  the  uterus  would 
not  be  normal,  and  the  animal  either  would  not  conceive  or  would 
abort  again  in  a  short  time. 

.  Great  care  should  be  used  in  purchasing  cattle,  and  cows  not 
known  to  be  free  from  the  disease  should  be  kept  in  separate  quarters 
until  this  point  is  determmed.  If  a  herd  bull  is  not  kept,  then  great 
care  should  be  taken  to  know  that  the  animal  used  is  free  of  disease 
and  to  see  that  he  is  properly  treated  both  before  and  after  service. 


170  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

Whenever  it  becomes  necessary  to  separate  diseased  and  healthy 
animals,  it  is  especially  imjiortant  that  different  attendants  and 
utensils  be  provided  for  the  two  groups. 

GRANULAR   VENEREAL   DISEASE    (INFECTIOUS   GRANULAR 

VAGINITIS). 

The  affection  to  which  the  foregoing  names  have  been  given  is  a 
chronic,  mild,  and  apparently  contagious  disease  of  cattle,  character- 
ized by  an  inflammatory  condition  of  the  mucous  membrane  of  the 
vagina  and  the  development  of  nodules  upon  its  surface.  At  the 
present  time  the  causative  agent  is  said  to  be  an  encapsulated  strep- 
tococcus. 

This  disease  is  very  widely  spread,  but  from  an  economic  point  of 
view  it  does  not  appear  to  have  great  significance.  Williams,  who 
investigated  it,  asserts  that  it  is  difficult  to  find  a  single  herd  in  this 
country  which  is  free  of  this  disease.  He  considers  it  of  great  im- 
portance, claiming  that  granular  vaginitis  has  a  vital  relation  to 
abortion.  This  view,  however,  is  not  substantiated  by  other  investi- 
gators, it  being  now  generally  accepted  that  the  disease  is  only  rarely 
responsible  for  abortion,  and  further,  that  it  exerts  no  apparent  ill 
effects  on  the  health  of  the  animal  and  that  it  has  no  effect  on  the 
milk  yield. 

Symptoins. — Natural  infection  may  take  place  either  by  direct 
contact  of  animals  or  at  the  time  of  service.  Most  of  the  cows  in  the 
affected  herd  contract  the  disease,  but  the  bulls  are  rarely  or  very 
mildly  affected.  The  inflamed  condition  of  the  membranes  of  the 
vagina  results  in  a  catarrhal  exudate,  and  this  discharge,  which  soils 
the  external  genitals  and  the  tail,  and  the  uneasiness  and  sometimes 
the  straining  of  the  animal,  are  the  first  and  most  prominent  symp- 
toms observed.  Upon  examination,  small,  hard,  grayish  nodules  can 
be  seen  and  felt  upon  the  inflamed  membranes.  This  acute  stage 
may  last  for  three  or  four  weeks,  then  it  gradually  subsides  and 
assumes  the  chronic  form,  only  to  flare  up  again  as  the  animal  comes 
in  heat. 

These  nodules  are  sometimes  found  upon  the  membranes  of  the 
uterus,  and  some  investigators  have  argued  from  this  fact  that  it 
was  responsible  for  abortion  and  sterility.  Others,  however,  deny 
this  and  point  out  that  the  bacillus  of  abortion  can  be  demonstrated 
in  nearly  every  case.  The  importance  of  the  disease  is  therefore  in 
dispute  and  the  decision  must  be  left  to  future  investigation. 

Treatment. — The  exaggerated  importance  which  has  been  attached 
to  this  disease  resulted  in  the  exploitation  of  the  most  varied  kinds 
of  remedies  for  its  treatment.  It  is  true  that  with  a  protracted  and 
laborious  treatment  it  is  possible  to  effect  cures  in  from  one  to  three 
months,  but  with  our  present  knowledge  of  this  disorder  it  is  ad- 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  171 

visable  to  limit  the  treatment  to  animals  which  show  an  acute  in- 
flammatory condition  of  the  vagina  and  vulva  with  a  discharge  as  a 
result  of  the  granular  affection.  The  treatment  should  be  local  and 
confined  to  the  application  of  antiseptic  washes  in  the  form  of  irri- 
gations. For  this  purpose  a  0.5  per  cent  solution  of  cresol  com- 
pound, lysol,  or  Lugol's  solution  has  been  found  satisfactory. 

PARTURITION  (CALVING). 

SYMPTOMS   OF   CALVING. 

In  the  cow  the  premonitions  of  calving  are  the  enlargement  of  the 
udder,  which  becomes  firm  and  resistant  to  the  touch,  with  more  or 
less  swelling  in  front,  and  yields  a  serous,  milky  fluid;  the  enlarge- 
ment and  swelling  of  the  vulva,  which  discharges  an  abundant,  stringy 
mucus ;  the  drooping  of  the  belly,  and  the  falling  in  of  the  muscles  at 
each  side  of  the  root  of  the  tail,  so  as  to  leave  deep  hollows.  AMien 
this  last  symptom  is  seen,  calving  may  be  counted  on  in  24  hours 
or  in  2  or  3  days.  When  the  act  is  imminent,  the  cow  becomes 
uneasy,  moves  restlessly,  leaves  off  eating,  in  the  field  leaves  the 
herd,  lies  down  and  rises  again  as  if  in  pain,  shifts  upon  her  hind 
feet,  moves  the  tail,  and  may  bellow  or  moan.  When  labor  pains 
come  on  the  back  is  arched,  the  croup  drooped,  the  belly  is  drawn 
up,  and  straining  is  more  or  less  violent  and  continuous.  Meanwhile 
blood  may  have  appeared  on  the  vulva  and  tail,  and  soon  the  clear 
water  bags  protrude  between  the  lips  of  the  vulva.  They  increase 
rapidly,  hanging  down  toward  the  hocks,  and  the  fore  or  hind  feet 
can  be  detected  within  them.  With  the  rupture  of  the  bags  and 
escape  of  the  waters  the  womb  contracts  on  the  solid,  angular  body  of 
the  fetus  and  is  at  once  stimulated  to  more  violent  contractions,  so 
that  the  work  proceeds  with  redoubled  energy  to  the  complete  expul- 
sion. This  is  why  it  is  wrong  to  rupture  the  water  bags  if  the  pre- 
sentation is  normal,  as  they  furnish  a  soft,  uniform  pressure  for 
the  preliminary  dilation  of  the  mouth  of  the  womb  and  passages, 
in  anticipation  of  the  severe  strain  put  upon  them  as  the  solid  body 
of  the  calf  passes. 

The  cow^  often  calves  standing,  in  which  case  the  navel  string  is 
broken  as  the  calf  falls  to  the  ground.  If,  however,  she  is  recumbent, 
this  cord  is  torn  through  as  she  rises.  The  afterpains  come  on  3  or 
4  hours  later  and  expel  the  membranes,  which  should  never  be  left 
longer  than  24  hours. 

NATURAL  PRESENTATION. 

When  there  is  but  one  calf  the  natural  presentation  is  that  of  the 
fore  feet  with  the  front  of  the  hoofs  and  knees  turned  upward  to- 
ward the  tail  of  the  dam  and  the  nose  lying  between  the  knees.  (PI. 
XV.)     If  there  are  twins  the  natural  position  of  the  second  is  that  of 


172  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

the  hind  feet,  the  heels  and  hocks  turned  upward  toward  the  cow's 
tail.  (PI.  XVIII,  fig.  1.)  In  both  of  these  natural  positions  the 
curvature  of  the  body  of  the  calf — the  back  arched  upward — is  the 
same  with  the  curvature  of  the  passages,  which  descend  anteriorly 
into  the  womb,  ascend  over  the  brim  of  the  pelvis,  and  descend  again 
toward  the  external  opening  (vulva).  Any  presentation  differing 
from  the  above  is  abnormal. 

OBSTACLES   TO   PARTURITION. 

With  a  well-formed  cow  and  calf  and  a  natural  presentation  as 
above,  calving  is  usually  prompt  and  easy.  Obstacles  may,  however, 
come  from  failure  of  the  mouth  of  the  womb  to  dilate ;  from  twisting 
of  the  neck  of  the  womb ;  from  tumors  in  the  vagina ;  from  dropsy  in 
the  womb  or  abdomen;  from  overdistension  of  the  rectum  or  bladder; 
from  undue  narroAving  of  the  passages;  from  excess  of  fat  in  the 
walls  of  the  pelvis;  from  the  disturbance  of  a  nervous  cow  by  noises; 
from  stone  or  urine  in  the  bladder ;  from  wrong  presentation  of  the 
calf,  its  back  being  turned  downward  or  to  one  side  in  place  of  up- 
ward toward  the  spine  of  the  dam;  from  the  bending  baclnvard  of 
one  or  more  limbs  or  of  the  head  into  the  body  of  the  womb ;  from 
presentation  of  the  back,  shoulder,  or  croup,  all  four  limbs  being 
turned  back;  from  presentation  of  all  four  feet  at  once;  from  ob- 
struction caused  by  an  extra  head  or  extra  limbs,  or  double  body  on 
the  part  of  the  offspring  (PI.  XIX)  ;  from  dropsy  or  other  disease 
of  the  calf;  from  excessive  or  imperfect  development  of  the  calf; 
from  the  impaction  of  twins  into  the  passages  at  the  same  time;  or 
at  times  it  may  be  from  the  mere  excessive  volume  of  the  fetus. 

GENERAL  MAXIMS   FOR  THE   ASSISTANT    CONCERNING   DIFFICULT   PARTURITION. 

Do  not  interfere  too  soon.  "  Meddlesome  midwifery  is  bad  "  with 
animals  as  with  women.  After  labor  pains  set  in,  give  a  reasonable 
time  for  the  water  bags  to  protrude  and  burst  spontaneously,  and 
only  interfere  when  delay  suggests  some  mechanical  obstruction.  If 
there  is  no  mechanical  obstruction,  let  the  calf  be  expelled  slowly 
by  the  unaided  efforts  of  the  cow.  Bruises  and  lacerations  of  the 
passages  and  flooding  from  the  uncontracted  womb  may  come  from 
the  too  speedy  extraction  of  the  calf.  When  assistance  is  necessary, 
the  operator  should  dress  in  a  thick  flannel  shirt  from  which  the 
sleeves  have  been  cut  off  clear  to  the  shoulders.  This  avoids  danger 
of  exposure  and  yet  leaves  the  whole  arm  free  and  untrammeled. 
Before  inserting  the  hand  it  and  the  arm  should  be  smeared  with  oil, 
lard,  or  vaseline,  care  being  taken  that  the  oil  or  lard  is  fresh,  neither 
salted  nor  rancid;  and  that  it  has  been  purified  by  boiling  or  rendered 
antiseptic  by  the  addition  of  a  teaspoonful  of  carbolic  acid  to  the 


DISEASES   OF    THE    GENERATIVE    OEGANS.  173 

pound.  This  is  a  valuable  precaution  against  infecting  the  cow  by 
introducing  putrid  ferments  into  the  passages  and  against  poisoning 
of  the  arm  by  decomposing  discharges  in  case  the  calving  is  unduly 
protracted.  When  labor  pains  have  lasted  some  time  without  any 
signs  of  the  water  bags,  the  dropping  in  at  the  sides  of  the  rump, 
and  the  other  preparations  for  calving  being  accomplished,  the  hand 
should  be  introduced  to  examine.  When  the  water  bags  have  burst 
and  neither  feet  nor  head  appear  for  some  time,  examination  should 
be  made.  When  one  fore  foot  only  and  the  head  appear,  or  both 
fore  feet  without  the  head,  or  the  head  without  the  fore  feet,  exam- 
ine. If  one  hind  foot  appears  without  the  other,  make  examination. 
The  presenting  limb  or  head  should  be  secured  by  a  rope  with  a  run- 
ning noose,  so  that  it  may  not  pass  back  into  the  womb  and  get  lost 
during  the  subsequent  manipulations,  but  may  be  retained  in  the 
vagina  or  brought  up  again  easily.  In  searching  for  a  missing  mem- 
ber it  is  usually  better  to  turn  the  head  of  the  cow  downhill,  so  that 
the  gravitation  of  the  fetus  and  abdominal  organs  forward  into  the 
belly  of  the  cow  may  give  more  room  in  which  to  bring  up  the  miss- 
ing limb  or  head.  If  the  cow  is  lying  down,  turn  her  on  the  side 
opposite  to  that  on  which  the  limb  is  missing,  so  that  there  may  be 
more  room  for  bringing  the  latter  up.  Eyen  if  a  missing  limb  is 
reached,  it  is  vain  to  attempt  to  bring  it  up  during  a  labor  pain. 
Wait  until  the  pain  has  ceased  and  attempt  to  straighten  out  the 
limb  before  the  next  pain  comes  on.  If  the  pains  are  violent  and 
continuous,  they  may  be  checked  by  pinching  the  back  or  by  putting 
a  tight  surcingle  aroung  the  body  in  front  of  the  udder.  These  fail- 
ing, 1  ounce  or  1^  ounces  of  chloral  hydrate  in  a  quart  of  water  may 
be  given  to  check  the  pains.  If  the  passages  have  dried  up  or  lost 
their  natural,  lubricating  liquid,  smear  the  interior  of  the  passages 
and  womb  and  the  surface  of  the  calf,  so  far  as  it  can  be  reached, 
with  pure  fresh  lard;  or  pure  sweet  oil  may  be  run  into  the  womb 
through  a  rubber  tube  (fountain  syringe).  In  dragging  upon  the 
fetus  apply  strong  traction  only  while  the  mother  is  straining  and 
drag  downward  toward  the  hocks  as  well  as  backward.  The  natural 
curvature  of  both  fetus  and  passages  is  thus  followed  and  the  extrac- 
tion rendered  easier. 

LABOR  PAINS  BEFORE  RELAXATION   OF   THE   PASSAGES. 

Any  of  the  various  causes  of  abortion  may  bring  on  labor  pains 
before  the  time.  Straining  comes  on  days  or  weeks  before  the  time, 
and  there  is  not  the  usual  enlargement,  swelling,  and  mucous  dis- 
charge from  the  vulva.  There  is  little  or  no  falling  in  by  the  sides 
of  the  root  of  the  tail;  the  abdomen  has  not  dropped  to  the  usual 
extent,  and  the  udder  is  less  developed  and  yields  little  or  no  milk. 
In  spite  of  the  pains  no  water  bags  appear,  and  the  oiled  hand  cau- 


174  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

tiously  introduced  into  the  vagina  finds  the  neck  of  the  womb  firmly 
closed,  rigid,  and  undilatable.  If  it  is  known  that  the  cow  has  not 
reached  her  proper  time  of  calving,  the  examination  through  the 
vagina  should  be  omitted  and  the  animal  should  be  placed  in  a  dark, 
quiet  place  by  herself,  and  be  given  1  to  2  ounces  laudanum.  Vibur- 
nwm  prunifolium  (black  haw),  1  ounce,  may  be  added,  if  necessary, 
and  repeated  in  three  hours.     The  pains  will  usually  subside. 

In  some  instances  the  external  parts  are  relaxed  and  duly  prepared, 
but  the  neck  of  the  womb  remains  rigidly  closed.  In  such  case  the 
solid  extract  of  belladonna  should  be  smeared  around  the  constricted 
opening  and  the  animal  left  quiet  until  it  relaxes. 

DISEASED  INDURATION   OF  THE  MOUTH   OF  THE   WOMB. 

From  previous  lacerations  or  other  injuries  the  neck  of  the  womb 
may  have  become  the  seat  of  fibrous  hardening  and  constriction,  so  as 
to  prevent  its  dilatation,  when  all  other  parts  are  fully  prepared  for 
calving.  The  enlarged,  flabby  vulva,  the  sinking  at  each  side  of  the 
rump,  the  full  udder,  and  drooping  abdomen  indicate  the  proper  time 
for  calving,  but  the  labor  pains  effect  no  progress  in  the  dilatation  of 
the  mouth  of  the  womb,  and  the  oiled  hand  introduced  detects  the 
rigid,  hard,  and,  in  some  cases,  nodular  feeling  of  the  margins  of  the 
closed  orifice  which  no  application  of  belladonna  or  other  antispas- 
modic suffices  to  relax.  Sponge  tents  may  be  inserted  or  the  mechan- 
ical dilator  (PI.  XX,  fig.  6)  may  be  used  if  there  is  opening  enough  to 
admit  it,  and  if  not,  a  narrow-bladed,  probe-pointed  knife  (PI. 
XXIV,  fig.  2)  may  be  passed  through  the  orifice  and  turned  upward, 
downward,  and  to  each  side,  cutting  to  a  depth  not  exceeding  a 
quarter  of  an  inch  in  each  case.  This  done,  a  finger  may  be  inserted, 
then  two,  three,  and  four,  and  finally  all  four  fingers  and  thumb 
brought  together  in  the  form  of  a  cone  and  made  to  push  in  with 
rotary  motion  until  the  whole  hand  can  be  introduced.  After  this 
the  labor  pains  will  induce  further  dilation,  and  finally  the  present- 
ing members  of  the  calf  will  complete  the  process. 

TWISTING  OF  THE   NECK   OF   THE   WOMB. 

This  is  not  very  uncommon  in  the  cow,  the  length  of  the  body  of 
the  womb  and  the  looseness  of  the  broad  ligaments  that  attach  it  to 
the  walls  of  the  pelvis  favoring  the  twisting.  It  is  as  if  one  were  to 
take  a  long  sack  rather  loosely  filled  at  the  neck  and  turn  over  its 
closed  end,  so  that  its  twisting  should  occur  in  the  neck.  The  twist 
may  be  one-quarter  round,  so  that  the  upper  surface  would  come  to 
look  to  one  side,  or  it  may  be  half  round,  so  that  what  was  the  upper 
surface  becomes  the  lower.  The  relation  of  the  womb  of  the  cow  to 
the  upper  and  right  side  of  the  paunch  favors  the  twisting.     The 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  175 

paunch  occupies  the  whole  left  side  of  the  abdomen  and  extends 
across  its  floor  to  the  right  side.  Its  upper  surface  thus  forms  an 
inclined  plane,  sloping  from  the  left  downward  and  to  the  right,  and 
on  this  sloping  surface  lies  the  pregnant  womb. 

It  is  easy  to  see  how,  in  the  constant  movements  of  the  paunch 
upon  its  contents  and  the  frequent  changes  of  position  of  the  growing 
fetus  within  the  womb,  to  say  nothing  of  the  contractions  of  the  adja- 
cent bowels  and  the  more  or  less  active  movements  of  the  cow,  the 
womb  should  roll  downward  to  the  right.  Yet  in  many  cases  the 
twist  is  toward  the  left,  showing  that  it  is  not  the  result  of  a  simple 
rolling  downward  over  the  paunch,  but  rather  of  other  disturbances. 
The  condition  may  be  suspected  when  labor  pains  have  continued 
for  some  time  without  any  sign  of  the  water  bags,  and  it  is  con- 
firmed when  the  oiled  hand,  introduced  through  the  vagina,  finds  the 
mouth  of  the  womb  soft  and  yielding,  but  furnished  with  internal 
folds  running  forward  in  a  spiral  manner.  If  the  folds  on  the  upper 
wall  of  the  orifice  run  toward  the  right,  the  womb  is  twisted  to  the 
right ;  if,  on  the  contrary,  they  turn  toward  the  left,  it  indicates  that 
the  womb  is  turned  over  in  that  direction.  The  direction  of  the  twist 
must  be  known  before  treatment  can  be  undertaken.  Then,  if  the 
twist  is  toward  the  right,  the  cow  is  laid  upon  her  right  side  with  her 
head  downhill,  the  hand  of  the  operator  is  introduced  through  the 
spirally  constricted  neck  of  the  womb,  and  a  limb  or  other  portion  of 
the  body  of  the  calf  is  seized  and  pressed  firmly  against  the  wall  of 
the  womb.  Meanwhile  two  or  three  assistants  roll  the  cow  from  her 
right  side  over  on  her  back  to  her  left  side.  The  object  is  to  hold  the 
womb  and  calf  still  while  the  body  of  the  cow  rolls  over.  If  success- 
ful, the  twist  is  undone,  its  grasp  on  the  wrist  is  slackened,  and  the 
water  bags  and  calf  press  into  the  now  open  passage.  If  the  first 
attempt  does  not  succeed,  it  is  to  be  repeated  until  success  has  been 
attained.  If  the  spiral  folds  on  the  upper  wall  of  the  opening  turn 
toward  the  left,  the  cow  is  laid  on  her  left  side  and  rolled  over  on 
her  back  and  on  to  the  right  side,  the  hand  being,  as  before,  within 
the  womb  and  holding  the  fetus,  so  that  all  may  not  rotate  with  the 
cow.  In  introducing  the  hand  it  will  usually  be  found  needful  to 
perforate  the  membranes,  so  that  a  limb  of  the  calf  may  be  seized 
direct  and  firmly  held.  Among  my  occasional  causes  of  failure  with 
these  cases  have  been,  first,  the  previous  death  and  decomposition 
of  the  fetus,  leading  to  such  overdistention  of  the  womb  that  it  could 
not  be  made  to  rotate  within  the  abdomen,  and,  second,  the  occur- 
rence of  inflammation  and  an  exudate  on  the  twisted  neck  of  the 
womb,  which  hindered  it  from  untwisting. 

In  obstinate  cases,  in  which  the  hand  can  be  made  to  pass  through 
the  neck  of  the  womb  easily,  additional  help  may  be  had  from  the  use 
of  the  instrument  shown  in  Plate  XX,  figure  5.    Two  cords,  with  run- 


176  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

ning  nooses,  are  successively  introduced  and  made  fast  on  two  limbs 
of  the  calf;  the  cords  are  then  passed  through  the  two  rings  on  the 
end  of  the  instrument,  which  is  passed  into  the  womb  and  the  cords 
drawn  tight  and  fixed  round  the  handle.  Then,  using  the  handle  as  a 
lever,  it  is  turned  in  the  direction  opposite  to  the  twist.  The  hand 
should  meanwhile  be  introduced  into  the  womb  and  the  snared  limbs 
seized  and  pressed  against  its  walls  so  as  to  secure  the  rotation  of  the 
uterus  along  with  the  body  of  the  fetus.  The  relaxation  of  the  con- 
striction and  the  effacement  of  the  spiral  folds  will  show  when  suc- 
cess has  been  gained,  and  the  different  members  at  one  end  of  the  body 
should  then  be  brought  up  so  as  to  secure  a  natural  presentation. 

NARROW  PELVIS  FROM  FRACTURE  OR  DISEASE. 

In  a  small  cow  the  pelvis  may  be  too  narrow  to  pass  a  calf  sired  by 
a  bull  of  a  large  breed,  but  this  is  exceptional,  as  the  fetus  usually 
accommodates  itself  to  the  size  of  the  dam  and  makes  its  extra  growth 
after  birth.  IVlien  the  pelvic  bones  have  been  fractured  repair  takes 
place  with  the  formation  of  a  large  permanent  callus,  which,  project- 
ing internally,  may  be  a  serious  obstacle  to  calving.  Worse  still,  if 
the  edge  of  the  broken  bone  projects  internally  as  a  sharp  spike  or 
ridge,  the  vaginal  walls  are  cut  upon  it  during  the  passage  of  the 
calf,  with  serious  or  fatal  result.  In  other  cases,  where  the  cow  has 
suffered  from  fragility  of  bone  (fragilitas  ossium)  the  thickening  of 
the  bone  causes  narrowing  of  the  long  passage  of  the  pelvis  and  the 
crumbling  fractures  poorly  repaired,  with  an  excess  of  brittle  new 
material,  may  form  an  insuperable  obstacle  to  parturition.  Cows 
affected  in  any  of  these  ways  should  never  again  be  bred,  but  if  they 
do  get  pregnant  and  reach  full  time  a  careful  examination  will  be 
necessary  to  determine  whether  natural  parturition  can  take  place 
or  if  the  calf  must  be  extracted  in  pieces.  (See  "Embryotomy,"  p. 
200.) 

OBSTRUCTION  BY  MASSES    OF  FAT. 

This  is  not  unknown  in  old  cows  of  the  beef  breeds,  the  enormous 
masses  of  fat  upon  and  within  the  pelvis  being  associated  with  weak- 
ness or  fatty  degeneration  of  the  muscles.  If  the  presentation  is 
natural,  little  more  is  wanted  than  a  judicious  traction  upon  the 
fetus  to  compress  and  overcome  the  soft  resisting  masses. 

OBSTRUCTION  BY  A  FULL  BLADDER  OR  RECTUM  OR  BY  STONE. 

In  all  cases  of  delayed  or  tardy  parturition  the  evacuation  of 
rectum  and  bladder  is  important,  and  it  is  no  less  so  in  all  difficult 
parturitions.  Stone  in  the  bladder  is  fortunately  rare  in  the  cow, 
but  when  present  it  should  be  removed  to  obviate  crushing  and 
perhaps  perforation  of  the  organ  during  calving. 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  177 

CALVING  RETARDED  BY  NERVOUSNESS. 

In  a  public  fair  ground  I  have  seen  labor  pains  begin  early  in  the 
day  and  keep  up  in  a  weak  and  insufficient  manner  for  many  hours, 
until  the  stall  was  thoroughly  closed  in  and  the  cow  secluded  from 
the  constant  stream  of  visitors  and  the  incessant  noise,  when  at  once 
the  pains  became  strong  and  effective  and  the  calf  was  soon  born. 

COAGULATED  BLOOD   UNDER  THE  VAGINAL  WALLS. 

This  is  common  after  calving,  but  sometimes  occurs  before,  as 
the  result  of  accidental  injury.  The  mass  may  be  recognized  by  its 
dark  hue  and  the  doughy  sensation  to  the  touch.  It  may  be  cut  into 
and  the  mass  turned  out  with  the  fingers,  after  which  it  should  be 
washed  frequently  with  an  antiseptic  lotion  (carbolic  acid  1  dram  in 
1  quart  of  water). 

CONSTRICTION   OF   A   MEMBER  BY   THE   NAVEL   STRING. 

In  early  fetal  life  the  winding  of  the  navel  string  around  a  limb  may 
cause  the  latter  to  be  slowly  cut  off  by  absorption  under  the  constrict- 
ing cord.  So  at  calving  the  cord  wound  round  a  presenting  member 
may  retard  progress  somewhat,  and  though  the  calf  may  still  be  born 
tardily  by  the  unaided  efforts  of  the  mother,  it  is  liable  to  come  still- 
born, because  the  circulation  in  the  cord  is  interrupted  by  compres- 
sion before  the  offspring  can  reach  the  open  air  and  commence  to 
breathe.  If,  therefore,  it  is  possible  to  anticipate  and  prevent  this 
displacement  and  compression  of  the  navel  string  it  should  be  done, 
but  if  this  is  no  longer  possible,  then  the  extraction  of  the  calf  should 
be  effected  as  rapidlj^^  as  possible,  and  if  breathing  is  not  at  once 
attempted  it  should  be  started  by  artificial  means. 

WATER   IN   THE    HEAD   OF   THE   CALF    (HYDROCEPHALUS). 

This  is  an  enormous  distention  of  the  cavity  holding  the  brain,  by 
reason  of  the  accumulation  of  liquid  in  the  internal  cavities  (ventri- 
cles) of  the  brain  substance.  The  head  back  of  the  eyes  rises  into  a 
great  rounded  ball  (PI.  XIX,  figs.  4  and  5),  which  proves  an  insuper- 
able obstacle  to  parturition.  The  fore  feet  and  nose  being  the  parts 
presented,  no  progress  can  be  made,  and  even  if  the  feet  are  pulled 
upon  the  nose  can  not  by  any  means  be  made  to  appear.  The  oiled 
hand  introduced  into  the  passages  will  feel  the  nose  presenting  be- 
tween the  fore  limbs,  and  on  passing  the  hand  back  over  the  face  the 
hard  rounded  mass  of  the  cranium  is  met  with.  A  sharp-pointed 
knife  or  a  cannula  and  trocar  should  be  introduced  in  the  palm  of  the 
hand  and  pushed  into  the  center  of  the  rounded  mass  so  as  to  evacu- 
ate the  water.  The  hand  is  now  used  to  press  together  the  hitherto 
distended  but  thin  and  fragile  walls,  and  the  calf  may  be  delivered 
33071°— 16 12 


178  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

in  the  natural  way.  If  the  enhirged  head  is  turned  backward  it  must 
still  be  reached  and  punctured,  after  which  it  must  be  brought  up 
into  position  and  the  calf  delivered. 

If  the  hind  feet  present  first,  all  may  go  well  until  the  body  and 
shoulders  have  passed  out,  when  further  progress  is  suddenly  ar- 
rested by  the  great  bulk  of  the  head.  If  possible,  the  hand,  armed 
with  a  knife  or  trocar,  must  be  passed  along  the  side  of  the  shoulder 
or  neck  so  as  to  reach  and  puncture  the  distended  head.  Failing  in 
this,  the  body  may  be  skinned  up  from  the  belly  and  cut  in  two  at  the 
shoulder  or  neck,  after  which  the  head  can  easily  be  reached  and 
punctured.  If  in  such  case  the  fore  limbs  have  been  left  in  the 
womb,  they  may  now  be  brought  up  into  the  passage,  and  when 
dragged  upon  the  collapsed  head  will  follow. 

If  the  distention  is  not  sufficient  to  have  rendered  the  bony  walls  of 
the  cranium  thin  and  fragile,  so  that  they  can  be  compressed  with  the 
hand  after  puncture,  a  special  method  may  be  necessary.  A  long 
incision  should  be  made  from  behind  forward  in  the  median  line  of 
the  cranium  with  an  embryotomy  knife  (PL  XXI,  fig.  1)  or  with  a 
long  embryotome  (PL  XX,  fig.  3).  By  this  means  the  bones  on  the 
one  side  are  completely  separated  from  those  on  the  other  and  may 
be  made  to  overlap  and  perhaps  to  flatten  down.  If  this  fails  they 
may  be  cut  from  the  head  all  around  the  base  of  the  rounded  cranial 
swelling  by  means  of  a  guarded  chisel  (PL  XX,  fig.  8)  and  mallet, 
after  which  there  will  be  no  difficulty  in  causing  them  to  collapse. 

DROPSY  OF  THE  ABDOMEN  OF  THE  CALF  (ASCITES). 

This  is  less  frequent  than  hydrocephalus,  but  no  less  difficult  to 
deal  with.  With  an  anterior  presentation  the  fore  limbs  and  head 
may  come  away  easily  enough,  but  no  effort  will  advance  the  calf 
beyond  the  shoulders.  The  first  thought  should  be  dropsy  of  the 
belly,  and  the  oiled  hand  introduced  by  the  side  of  the  chest  will 
detect  the  soft  and  fluctuating  yet  tense  sac  of  the  abdomen.  If  there 
is  space  to  allow  of  the  introduction  of  an  embryotomy  loiife,  the 
abdomen  may  be  freely  cut  with  this,  when  the  fluid  will  escape  into 
the  womb  and  parturition  may  proceed  naturally.  If  this  can  not 
be  effected,  a  long  trocar  and  cannula  may  be  passed  between  the  first 
two  ribs  and  straight  on  beneath  the  spine  until  it  punctures  the 
abdomen.  (PL  XVIII,  fig.  2.)  Then  the  trocar  is  to  be  withdrawn 
and  the  liquid  will  flow  through  the  cannula  and  will  be  hastened  by 
traction  on  the  fore  limbs.  In  the  absence  of  the  trocar  and  cannula, 
two  or  three  of  the  first  ribs  may  be  cut  from  the  breastbone,  so  that 
the  hand  may  be  introduced  through  the  chest  to  puncture  the  dia- 
phragm with  an  embryotomy  knife  and  allow  an  escape  of  the  water. 
In  some  slighter  cases  a  tardy  delivery  may  take  place  without  punc- 
ture, the  liquid  bulging  forward  into  the  chest  as  the  abdomen  is 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  179 

compressed  in  the  pelvic  passages.  With  a  posterior  presentation  the 
abdomen  may  be  punctured  more  easily  either  in  the  flank  or  with 
a  trocar  and  cannula  through  the  anus. 

GENERAL  DROPSY  OF  THE  CALF. 

,  This  occurs  from  watery  blood  or  disease  of  some  internal  organ, 
like  the  liver  or  kidney,  and  is  recognized  by  the  general  puffed-up 
and  rounded  condition  of  the  body,  which  pits  everywhere  on  pres- 
sure but  without  crackling.  If  not  too  extreme  a  case,  the  calf  may 
be  extracted  after  it  has  been  very  generally  punctured  over  the 
body,  but  usually  the  only  resort  is  to  extract  it  in  pieces.  (See 
"Embryotomy,"  p.  200.) 

SWELLING  OF  THE   CALF  WITH  GAS. 

This  is  usually  the  result  of  the  death  and  decomposition  of  the 
fetus  when  extraction  has  been  delayed  for  a  day  or  more  after  the 
escape  of  the  waters.  It  is  impossible  to  extract  it  whole,  owing  to 
its  large  size  and  the  dry  state  of  the  skin  of  the  calf,  the  membranes, 
and  the  wall  of  the  womb.  These  dry  surfaces  stick  with  such  tenac- 
ity that  no  attempt  at  traction  leads  to  any  advance  of  the  calf  out  of 
the  womb  or  into  the  passages.  When  the  fetus  is  advanced  the 
adherent  womb  advances  with  it,  and  when  the  strain  is  relaxed  both 
recede  to  where  they  were  at  first.  The  condition  may  be  helped 
somewhat  by  the  free  injection  of  oil  into  the  womb,  but  it  remains 
impossible  to  extract  the  enormously  bloated  body,  and  the  only 
resort  is  to  cut  it  in  pieces  and  extract  it  by  degrees.  (See  "  Embryo- 
tomy," p.  200.) 

RIGID  CONTRACTIONS  OF  MUSCLES. 

In  the  development  of  the  calf,  as  in  after  life,  the  muscles  are 
subject  to  cramps,  and  in  certain  cases  given  groups  of  muscles  re- 
main unnaturally  short,  so  that  even  the  bonps  grow  in  a  twisted  and 
distorted  way.  In  one  case  the  head  and  neck  are  drawn  round  to 
one  side  and  can  not  be  straightened  out,  even  the  bones  of  the  face 
and  the  nose  being  curved  around  to  that  side.  In  other  cases  the 
flexor  muscles  of  the  fore  legs  are  so  shortened  that  the  knees  are 
kept  constantly  bent  and  can  not  be  extended  by  force.  The  bent 
neck  may  sometimes  be  sufficiently  straightened  for  extraction  by 
cutting  across  the  muscles  on  the  side  to  which  it  is  turned,  and  the 
bent  knees  by' cutting  the  cords  on  the  back  of  the  shank  bones  just 
below  the  knees.  If  this  fails,  there  remains  the  resort  of  cutting 
off  the  distorted  limbs  or  head.     (See  "  Embryotomy,"  p.  200.) 

TUMORS  OF  THE  CALF   (INCLOSED  OVUM). 

Tumors  or  new  growths  grow  on  the  unborn  calf  as  on  the  mature 
animal,  and  by  increasing  the  diameter  of  the  body  render  its  prog- 


180  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

ress  through  the  passage  of  the  pelvis  impossible.  In  my  experience 
with  large,  fleshy  tumors  of  the  abdomen,  I  have  cut  open  the  chest, 
removed  the  lungs  and  heart,  cut  through  the  diaphragm  with  the 
knife,  and  removed  the  timior  piecemeal  by  alternate  tearing  and 
cutting  until  the  volume  of  the  body  was  sufficiently  reduced  to  pass 
through.  Where  this  failed  it  would  remain  to  cut  off  the  anterior 
part  of  the  body,  removing  as  much  of  the  chest  as  possible,  and  cut- 
ting freely  through  the  diaphragm;  then,  pushing  back  the  remainder 
of  the  body,  the  hind  limbs  may  be  seized  and  brought  into  the  pas- 
sages and  the  residue  thus  extracted.  The  tumor,  unless  very  large, 
will  get  displaced  backward  so  as  not  to  prove  an  insuperable  obstacle. 
In  many  cases  the  apparent  tumor  is  a  blighted  ovum  which  has 
failed  to  develop,  but  has  grafted  itself  on  its  more  fortunate  twin 
and  from  it  has  drawn  its  nourishment.  These  are  usually  sacs  con- 
taining hair,  skin,  muscle,  bone,  or  other  natural  tissues,  and  only 
exceptionally  do  they  show  the  distinct  outline  of  the  animal. 

MONSTROSITY    IN  THE   CALF. 

As  a  monstrous  development  in  the  calf  may  hinder  calving,  it  is 
well  to  consider  shortly  the  different  directions  in  which  these  devi- 
ations from  the  natural  form  appear.  Their  origin  and  significance 
will  be  rendered  clearer  if  Ave  divide  them  according  to  the  fault  of 
development  in  individual  cases.    Monsters  are  such — 

(1)  From  absence  of  parts — absence  of  head,  limb,  or  other  or- 
gan— arrested  development. 

(2)  From  some  organ  being  unnaturally  small,  as  a  dwarfed  head, 
limb,  trunk,  etc. — arrested  development. 

(3)  From  unnatural  division  of  parts — cleft  lips,  palate,  head, 
trunk,  limbs,  etc. — abnormal  growth. 

(4)  From  the  absence  of  natural  divisions — absence  of  mouth,  nose, 
eye,  anus ;  the  cloven  foot  of  ox  or  pig  becomes  solid,  like  that  of  the 
horse,  etc. — confluence  of  parts  which  are  rightfully  separate. 

(5)  From  the  fusion  of  parts — both  eyes  replaced  by  central  one, 
both  nostrils  merged  into  one  central  opening,  etc. — confluence  of 
parts. 

(6)  From  unnatural  position  or  form  of  parts — curved  nose,  neck, 
back,  limbs,  etc. — lack  of  balance  in  the  growth  of  muscles  during 
development. 

(7)  From  excessive  growth  of  one  or  more  organs — ^enormous  size 
of  head,  double  penis,  superfluous  digits,  etc. — redundancy  of  growth 
at  given  points. 

(8)  From  imperfect  differentiation  of  the  sexual  organs — her- 
maphordites  (organs  intermediate  betAveen  nuile  and  female),  male 
organs  with  certain  feminine  characters,  female  organs  with  certain 
well-marked  male  characters. 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  181 

(9)  From  the  doubling  of  parts  or  of  the  entire  body — double 
monsters,  doubled  heads,  doubled  bodies,  extra  limbs,  etc. — redundant 
development.     (PI.  XIX,  figs.  1,  2,  3.) 

Causes. — The  causes  of  monstrosities  are  varied.  Some,  like  extra 
digits,  lack  of  horns,  etc.,  run  in  families,  which  produce  them  with 
absolute  certainty  when  bred  in  the  direct  line,  although  they  were 
originally  acquired  peculiarities  which  have  merely  been  fixed  by 
long  habit  in  successive  generations.  The  earliest  horse  had  five  toes, 
and  even  the  most  recent  fossil  horse  had  three  toes,  of  which  the 
two  lateral  ones  are  still  represented  in  the  modern  animal  by  the  two 
splint  bones.  Yet  if  our  horse  develops  an  extra  toe  it  is  pronounced 
a  monstrosity.  A  more  genuine  monstrosity  is  the  solid-hoofed  pig, 
in  which  two  toes  have  been  merged  into  one.  Another  of  the  same 
kind  is  the  solid  shank  bone  of  the  ox,  which  consists  of  two  bones 
united  into  one,  but  Avhich  are  still  found  apart  in  the  early  fetus. 
Though  originally  acquired  peculiarities,  they  now  breed  as  invari- 
ably as  color  or  form. 

Other  monstrosities  seem  to  have  begim  in  too  close  breeding,  by 
which  the  powers  of  syrrimetrical  development  are  impaired,  just  as 
the  procreative  power  weakens  under  continuous  breeding  from  the 
closest  blood  relations.  A  monstrosity  consisting  in  the  absence  of 
an  organ  often  depends  on  a  simple  lack  of  development,  the  result 
of  disease  or  injury,  as  a  young  bone  is  permanently  shortened  by 
being  broken  across  the  soft' part  between  the  shaft  and  the  end,  the 
only  part  where  increase  in  length  can  take  place.  As  the  result  of 
the  injury  the  soft,  growing  layer  becomes  prematurely  hard  and 
all  increase  in  length  at  that  end  of  the  bone  ceases.  This  will  ac- 
count for  some  cases  of  absence  of  ej'e,  limb,  or  other  organ. 

Sometimes  a  monstrosity  is  owing  to  the  inclosure  of  one  ovum  in 
another  while  the  latter  is  still  but  a  soft  mass  of  cells  and  can  easily 
close  around  the  first.  Here  each  ovum  has  an  independent  life; 
they  develop  simultaneously,  only  the  outer  one  having  direct  con- 
nection with  the  womb  and  being  furnished  with  abundant  nourish- 
ment advances  most  rapidly  and  perfectly,  while  the  inclosed  and 
starved  ovum  is  dwarfed  and  imperfect  often  to  the  last  degree. 

In  many  cases  of  excess  of  parts  the  extra  part  or  member  is  mani- 
festly derived  from  the  same  ovum,  and  even  the  same  part  of  the 
ovum,  being  merel}^  the  effect  of  a  redundancy  and  vagary  of  groAvth. 
Such  cases  include  most  instances  of  extra  digits  or  other  organs,  and 
even  of  double  monsters,  as  manifested  by  the  fact  that  such  extra 
organs  grow  from  the  normal  identical  organs.  Hence  the  extra 
digit  is  attached  to  the  normal  digit,  the  extra  head  to  the  one  neck, 
the  extra  tail  to  the  croup,  extra  teeth  to  the  existing  teeth,  and 
even  two  similarly  formed  bodies  are  attached  by  some  point  com- 
mon to  both,  as  the  navels,  breastbones,  back,  etc.     (PI.  XIX,  figs. 


182  DISEASES    OF   CATTLE. 

1,  2,  3.)  This  shows  that  both  have  been  derived  from  the  same 
primitive  laj^er  of  the  embryo,  which  possessed  the  plastic  power  of 
building  up  a  given  structure  or  set  of  organs.  An  inclosed  ovum, 
on  the  other  hand,  has  no  such  identity  or  similaritj'^  of  structure  to 
the  part  with  which  it  is  connected,  showing  an  evident  primary 
independence  of  both  life  and  the  power  of  building  tissues  and 
organs.  The  power  of  determining  extra  growth  along  a  given 
natural  line  is  very  highly  developed  in  the  early  embryo  and  is 
equally  manifest  in  the  mature  examples  of  some  of  the  lower  forms 
of  animal  life.  Thus  a  newt  will  grow  a  new  tail  when  that  member 
has  been  cut  off,  and  a  starfish  will  develop  as  many  new  starfishes 
as  the  pieces  made  by  cutting  up  the  original  one.  This  power  of 
growth  in  the  embryo  and  in  the  lower  form  of  animals  is  compa- 
rable to  the  branching  out  again  of  a  tree  at  the  places  from  which 
branches  have  been  lopped.  The  presence  of  this  vegetablelike 
power  of  growth  in  the  embryo  accounts  for  most  double  monsters. 

The  influence  of  disease  in  modifying  growth  in  the  early  embryo, 
increasing,  decreasing,  distorting,  etc.,  is  well  illustrated  in  the 
experiments  of  St.  Hilaire  and  Valentine  in  varnishing,  shaking,  or 
otherwise  disturbing  the  connections  of  eggs  and  thereby  producing 
monstrosities.  One  can  easily  understand  how  inflammations  and 
other  causes  of  disturbed  circulation  in  the  womb,  fetal  membranes, 
or  fetus  would  cause  similar  distortions  and  variations  in  the  gi'ow- 
ing  offspring.  It  is  doubtless  largely  in  the  same  way  that  certain 
mental  disturbances  of  a  very  susceptible  dam  affect  the  appearance 
of  the  progeny.  The  monstrosities  which  seriously  interfere  with 
calving  are  mainly  such  as  consist  in  extra  members  or  head,  which 
can  not  be  admitted  into  the  passages  at  the  same  time,  where  some 
organ  of  the  body  has  attained  extra  size,  w^here  a  blighted  ovum 
has  been  inclosed  in  the  body  of  a  more  perfect  one,  or  where  the 
body  or  limbs  are  so  contracted  or  twisted  that  the  calf  must  enter 
the  passages  doubled  up. 

Treatment. — Extraction  is  sometimes  possible  by  straightening  the 
distorted  members  by  the  force  of  traction ;  in  other  cases  the  muscles 
or  tendons  must  be  cut  across  on  the  side  to  which  the  body  or  limbs 
are  bent  to  allow  of  such  straightening.  Thus,  the  muscles  on  the 
concave  side  of  a  wry  neck  or  the  cords  behind  the  shank  bones  of  a 
contracted  limb  may  be  cut  to  allow  of  these  parts  being  brought 
into  the  passages,  and  there  will  still  be  wanting  the  methods  de- 
manded for  bringing  up  missing  limbs  or  head,  for  which  see  para- 
graphs below.  In  most  cases  of  monstrosity  by  excess  of  overgrowth 
it  becomes  necessary  to  cut  off  the  supernumerary  or  overdeveloped 
parts,  and  in  this  same  general  principles  must  be  followed  as  laid 
down  in  "  Embryotomy  "  (p.  200). 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS. 
WRONG  PRESENTATIONS  OF  THE   CALF. 

The  following  is  a  list  of  abnormal  presentations  of  the  calf: 


Simultaneous  presentation  of  twins. 

Limbs  curved  at  the  knee 


183 


Fore  limbs. 


Head. 


Ph  qj 


Flexor  tendons  shortened. 

Limb  crossed  over  the  back  of  the  neck. 

Limb  bent  back  at  the  knee. 

Limb  bent  back  from  the  shoulder. 

Head  bent  downward  on  the  neck. 

Head  and  neck  turned  downward  beneath  the  breast. 

Head  turned  to  one  side  upon  the  side  of  the  neck. 

Head  and  neck  turned  back  on  the  side  of  the  chest  and 
abdomen. 

Head  turned  upward  and  backward  on  the  back. 

Hind    imbs  rotated  outward.     Toes  and  stifles  turned  out- 
ward. 

[Hind  limbs  bent  forward,  their  feet  resting  in  the  pelvis. 

Transverse Back  of  the  calf  turned  to  the  right  or  left  side. 

Inverted Back  of  the  calf  turned  to  the  floor  of  the  pelvis  and  udder. 

I  Hind  limb  bent  on  itself  at  the  hock.     Hock  and  buttocks 
present. 
Hind  limb  bent  at  the  hips.     Buttocks  present. 

Transverse Back  of  calf  turned  to  the  right  or  left  side. 

Inverted Back  of  calf  turned  to  the  floor  of  the  pelvis  and  udder. 

Head  up  toward  the  spine, 


Hind  limbs. 


Back   and    loins 
presented. 


Position  of  calf  vertical. 


Position  of  calf  transverse  . . . 


Breast  and   abdo-]       .  .        .       , 

^Position  of  calf  transverse 
men  presented.    J 


croup  toward  udder. 
Head    down    toward    udder, 

croup  toward  spine. 
Head  toward  the  right  side, 

croup  toward  the  left. 
Head  toward  the  left  side, 

croup  toward  the  right. 
Head     toward     right     side, 

croup  toward  left. 
Head  toward  left  side,  croup 

toward  right. 


These  include  all  general  presentations,  yet  other  subsidiary  ones 
will  at  once  occur  to  the  attentive  reader.  Thus,  in  each  anterior  or 
posterior  presentation,  with  the  back  of  the  calf  turned  downward  or 
to  one  side,  the  case  may  be  complicated  by  the  bending  back  of  one 
or  more  members  as  a  whole  or  at  the  joint  just  above  the  shank 
bones  (knee  or  hock).  So  also  in  such  anterior  presentation  the  head 
may  be  turned  back. 


184  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

Head  and  fore  feet  presented, — Bach  tinmed  to  one  side. — The  calf 
has  a  greater  diameter  from  abov^  down  (spine  to  breastbone)  than 
it  has  from  side  to  side,  and  the  same  is  true  of  the  passage  of  the 
pelvis  of  the  cow,  which  measures,  on  an  average,  SjV  inches  from 
above  downward  and  1^^  inches  from  side  to  side.  Hence  the  calf 
passes  most  easily  with  its  back  upward,  and  when  turned  with  its 
back  to  one  side  calving  is  always  tardy  and  may  be  difficult  or  im- 
possible. The  obvious  remedy  is  to  rotate  the  calf  on  its  own  axis 
until  its  spine  turns  toward  the  spine  of  the  cow.  The  operation  is 
not  difficult  if  the  body  of  the  calf  is  not  yet  fixed  in  the  passages. 
The  presenting  feet  are  twisted  over  each  other  in  the  direction 
desired,  and  this  is  continued  until  the  head  and  spine  have  assumed 
their  proper  place.  If  the  body  is  firmly  engaged  in  the  passages  the 
skin  of  the  whole  engaged  portion  should  be  freely  lubricated  with 
lard,  and  the  limbs  and  head  twisted  over  each  other  as  above.  The 
limbs  may  be  twisted  by  an  assistant  when  the  head  is  manipulated 
by  the  operator,  who  drags  on  the  rope  turned  halfway  round  the 
limbs  and  assists  in  the  rotation  with  his  other  hand  in  the  passages. 

Head  and  fore  feet  presented — Bach  turned  down  toward  the 
udder. — This  position  (PL  XVI,  fig.  6)  is  unnatural,  and  the  parturi- 
tion is  difficult  for  two  reasons:  First,  the  natural  curvature  of  the 
fetus  is  opposed  to  the  natural  curvature  of  the  passages;  and,  second, 
the  thickest  part  of  the  body  of  the  calf  (the  upper)  is  engaged  in 
the  narrowest  part  of  the  passage  of  the  pelvis  (the  lower).  Yet 
unless  the  calf  is  especially  large  and  the  pelvis  of  the  cow  narrow, 
parturition  may  usually  be  accomplished  in  this  way  spontaneously 
or  with  very  little  assistance  in  the  way  of  traction  on  the  limbs.  If 
this  can  not  be  accomplished,  tAvo  courses  are  open:  First,  to  rotate 
the  calf  as  when  the  back  is  turned  to  one  side ;  second,  to  push  back 
the  presenting  fore  limbs  and  head  and  search  for  and  bring  up  the 
hind  limbs,  when  the  presentation  will  be  a  natural,  posterior  one. 

Presentation  of  the  hind  feet  with  the  hach  turned  to  one  side  or 
downward. — These  are  the  exact  counterparts  of  the  two  conditions 
last  described,  are  beset  with  similar  drawbacks,  and  are  to  be  dealt 
with  on  the  same  general  principles.  (PI.  XVII,  fig.  4.)  With  the 
back  turned  to  one  side  the  body  should  be  rotated  until  the  back 
turns  toward  the  spine  of  the  dam,  and  with  the  back  turned  down 
it  must  be  extracted  in  that  position  (care  being  taken  that  the  feet 
do  not  perforate  the  roof  of  the  vagina)  or  it  must  be  rotated  on  its 
own  axis  until  the  back  turns  upward,  or  the  hind  limbs  must  be 
pushed  back  and  the  fore  limbs  and  head  advanced,  when  the  pres- 
entation will  be  a  natural  anterior  one. 

Impaction  of  twins  in  the  passage. — It  is  very  rare  to  have  twins 
enter  the  passages  together  so  as  to  become  firmly  impacted.  As  a 
rule,  each  of  the  twins  has  its  own  separate  membranes,  and  as  the 


DISEASES   OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  185 

water  bags  of  one  will  naturally  first  enter  and  be  the  first  to  burst, 
so  the  calf  which  occupied  those  membranes  will  be  the  first  to  enter 
the  passage  and  the  other  will  be  thereby  excluded.  When  the 
membranes  of  both  have  burst  without  either  calf  having  become 
engaged  in  the  pelvis,  it  becomes  possible  for  the  fore  legs  of  one 
and  the  hind  legs  of  the  other  to  enter  at  one  time,  and  if  the  strain- 
ing is  very  violent  they  may  become  firmly  impacted.  (PL  XVIII, 
fig.  1.)  The  condition  may  be  recognized  by  the  fact  that  two  of  the 
presenting  feet  have  their  fronts  turned  forward,  while  the  two 
others  have  their  fronts  turned  backward.  If  the  four  feet  belonged 
to  one  natural  calf,  they  would  all  have  the  same  direction.  By  means 
of  this  difference  in  direction  we  can  easily  select  the  two  feet  of  one 
calf,  place  running  nooses  upon  them  just  above  the  hoofs  or  fet- 
locks, and  have  an  assistant  drag  upon  the  ropes  while  the  feet  of  the 
other  calf  are  pushed  back.  In  selecting  one  of  the  twins  to  come 
first  several  considerations  should  have  weight.  The  one  that  is  most 
advanced  in  the  passage  is,  of  course,  the  first  choice.  Though  the 
fore  feet  of  one  are  presented,  yet  if  the  head  is  not  in  place  the  calf 
presenting  by  its  hind  feet  is  to  be  chosen  as  being  less  liable  to 
obstruct.  Again,  if  for  either  calf  one  limb  only  is  presented  and 
the  other  missing,  the  one  presenting  two  feet  should  be  selected 
to  come  first.  As  soon  as  one  calf  has  been  advanced  so  as  to  occupy 
the  pelvis  the  other  will  be  crowded  back  so  that  it  will  not  seriously 
obstruct. 

Fore  limbs  curved  at  the  knee — Limbs  sprawling  outward. — In 
this  case  not  only  are  the  knees  somewhat  bent  in  a  curve,  but  the 
calf  has  a  position  as  if  it  rested  on  its  breastbone,  while  the  legs 
were  drawn  apart  and  directed  to  the  right  and  left.  The  shoulder 
blades  being  drawn  outward  from  the  chest  and  the  elbows  turned 
out,  the  muscles  extending  from  the  trunk  to  the  limb  are  unduly 
stretched  and  keep  the  knees  bent  and  the  feet  directed  outward  so 
as  to  press  on  the  sides  of  the  passages.  They  become  retarded  in 
their  progress  as  compared  with  the  more  rapidly  advancing  head, 
and  may  bruise  or  even  lacerate  the  walls  of  the  vagina.  It  would 
seem  easy  to  rectify  this  by  extending  the  legs,  but  the  already  tense 
and  overstretched  muscles  operate  against  extension  in  the  present 
position,  and  it  is  not  easy  to  rotate  the  limbs  so  as  to  apply  the 
shoulder  flat  against  the  side  of  the  chest.  Under  these  circumstances 
a  repeller  (PI.  XX,  fig.  7)  may  be  planted  in  the  breast  and  the  body 
of  the  calf  pushed  backward  into  the  womb,  when  the  limbs  will 
extend  easily  under  traction  and  the  presentation  becomes  at  once 
natural. 

Fore  limbs  curved  at  knee — Flexor  tendons  shortening. — In  this 
case  the  feet  will  press  against  the  floor  of  the  pelvis  though  the 
limb  has  no  outward  direction,  and  the  shoulder  meanwhile  presses 


186  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

against  the  roof  of  the  same  passage.  Unless  the  knees  can  be  suffi- 
ciently straightened  by  force  a  knife  must  be  used  to  cut  across  the 
cords  behind  the  knee,  when  the  limbs  may  be  straightened  suffi- 
ciently. 

Fore  limbs  flexed  at  knee — Flexor  tendons  unshortened. — This  is 
mostly  seen  in  cases  in  which  the  body  of  the  calf  is  in  the  proper 
position,  its  back  being  turned  up  toward  the  back  of  the  dam,  and  in 
coAvs  with  a  drooping  abdomen.  The  feet  have  been  supposed  to 
catch  beneath  the  brim  of  the  pelvis,  and  being  retarded  while  the 
head  advances  into  the  passages,  they  get  bent  at  the  knee  and  the 
nose  and  knees  present.  (PL  XVI,  fig.  2.)  The  calf,  however,  is  not 
an  inanimate  body  advanced  by  the  mere  contraction  of  the  womb, 
but  it  moves  its  limbs  freely  under  the  stimulus  of  the  unwonted  com- 
pression, and  in  moving  the  feet  as  they  are  advanced  they  slip  down 
over  the  pelvic  brim  and  finding  no  other  firm  support  they  bend 
back  until,  under  the  impulsion,  they  can  no  longer  straighten  out 
again.  The  knees,  therefore,  advance  with  the  neck  and  head,  but  the 
feet  remain  bent  back.  The  result  is  that  the  upper  part  of  the  limb 
is  also  flexed,  and  the  shoulder  blade  and  arm  bone  with  their  masses 
of  investing  muscles  are  carried  backward  and  applied  on  the  side  of 
the  chest,  greatly  increasing  the  bulk  of  this  already  bulky  part.  As 
the  elbow  is  carried  back  on  the  side  of  the  chest,  the  forearm  from 
elbow  to  knee  further  increases  the  superadded  masses  of  the  shoulder 
and  renders  it  difficult  or  impossible  to  drag  the  mass  through  the 
passages.  When  the  fore  limbs  are  fully  extended,  on  the  contrarv, 
the  shoulder  blade. is  extended  forward  on  the  smallest  and  narrowest 
part  of  the  chest,  the  arm  bone  with  its  muscles  is  in  great  part  ap- 
plied against  the  side  of  the  back  part  of  the  neck,  and  the  forearm  is 
continued  forward  by  the  side  of  the  head  so  that  the  nose  lies  be- 
tween the  knees.  In  this  natural  presentation  the  presenting  body 
of  the  calf  forms  a  long  wedge  or  cone,  the  increase  of  which  is  slow 
and  gradual  until  it  reaches  the  middle  of  the  chest. 

The  difficulty  of  extending  the  fore  limbs  will  be  in  proportion  to 
the  advance  of  the  head  through  the  pelvic  cavity.  In  the  early  stage 
all  that  is  necessary  may  be  to  introduce  the  oiled  hand,  the  left  one 
for  the  right  leg  or  the  right  one  for  the  left,  and  passing  the  hand 
from  the  knee  on  to  the  foot  to  seize  the  foot  in  the  palm,  bend  it 
forcibly  on  the  fetlock,  and  lift  it  up  over  the  brim  of  the  pelvis,  the 
knee  being,  of  course,  pressed  upward  against  the  spine.  As  soon  as 
the  foot  has  been  raised  above  the  brim  of  the  pelvis  (into  the  pas- 
sage) the  limb  can  be  straightened  out  with  the  greatest  ease. 

When,  however,  the  shoulders  are  already  engaging  in  the  pelvis 
the  feet  can  not  thus  be  lifted  up,  and  to  gain  room  a  repeller  (PI. 
XX,  fig.  7)  must  be  used  to  push  back  the  body  of  the  calf.    This  is 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  187 

an  instrument  with  a  long,  straight  stem,  divided  at  the  end  into  two 
short  branches  (2  to  3  inches  long)  united  to  the  stem  by  hinges  so 
that  they  can  be  brought  into  a  line  with  the  stem  for  introduction 
into  the  womb  and  then  spread  to  be  implanted  in  the  breast.  In  the 
absence  of  a  repeller  a  smooth,  round,  fork  handle  may  be  used,  the 
prongs  having  been  removed  from  the  other  end.  A  third  device  is 
to  have  an  assistant  strip  his  arm  to  the  shoulder  and,  standing  back 
to  back  with  the  operator,  to  introduce  his  right  arm  into  the  passages 
along  with  the  operator's  left  (or  vice  versa)  and  push  back  the  body 
of  the  calf  while  the  operator  seeks  to  bring  up  a  limb.  The  repeller 
or  staff  having  been  planted  safely  in  the  breast  of  the  calf,  an  assist- 
ant pushes  upon  it  in  a  direction  either  forward  or  slightly  upw^ard, 
so  as  not  only  to  follow  the  natural  curve  of  the  body  and  favor  its 
turning  in  the  line  of  that  curve  within  the  womb,  but  also  to  carry 
the  shoulders  upward  toward  the  spine  and  obtain  more  room  for 
bringing  up  the  missing  feet.  It  is  good  policy,  first,  to  put  a  halter 
(PI.  XXI,  figs.  4a  and  45)  on  the  head  or  a  noose  (PI.  XXI,  fig  3) 
on  the  lower  jaw  and  a  rope  round  each  limb  at  the  knee,  so  as  to 
provide  against  the  loss  of  any  of  these  parts  when  the  body  is  pushed 
back  into  the  womb.  This  offers  the  further  advantage  that  by  drag- 
ging upon  these  ropes  the  body  can  be  advanced  in  the  passage  until 
the  foot  is  reached,  when  the  rope  must  be  slackened  and  the  repeller 
used  to  get  room  for  bringing  up  the  foot.  If  the  cow  is  lying, 
the  operator  should  first  secure  the  foot  on  the  upper  side  and  then,  if 
necessary,  turn  the  cow  on  its  opposite  side  so  as  to  bring  up  the  other. 

In  using  the  instruments  some  precautions  are  demanded.  They 
must  be  invariably  warmed  before  they  are  introduced,  and  they 
should  be  smeared  with  lard  or  oil  to  make  them  pass  easily  and  with- 
out friction.  The  assistant  who  is  pushing  on  the  instrument  must 
be  warned  to  stop  if  at  any  time  resistance  gives  way.  This  may 
mean  the  turning  of  the  fetus,  in  which  case  the  object  of  repulsion 
has  been  accomplished,  but  much  more  probably  it  implies  the  dis- 
placement of  the  instrument  from  the  body  of  the  fetus,  and  un- 
guarded pressure  may  drive  it  through  the  walls  of  the  womb. 

When  the  calf  enters  the  passage  with  its  back  turned  down  toward 
the  belly  and  udder,  the  bending  back  of  the  fore  limbs  is  rare,  prob- 
ably because  the  feet  can  find  a  straighter  and  more  nearly  uniform 
surface  of  resistance  in  the  upper  wall  of  the  womb  and  the  backbone, 
and  do  not  slide  over  a  crest  into  an  open  cavity,  as  they  do  over  the 
brim  of  the  pelvis.  The  weight  o  fthe  calf,  too,  gravitating  down- 
ward, leaves  more  room  for  the  straightening  of  the  bent  limbs,  so 
that  the  desired  relief  is  much  more  easily  secured.  The  manipula- 
tion is  the  same  in  principle,  only  one  must  add  the  precaution  of  a 
steady  traction  on  the  feet  in  extraction,  lest,  owing  to  the  adverse 


188  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

curvature  of  the  fetus,  the  hoofs  are  suddenly  forced  through  the 
roof  of  the  vagina,  and,  perhaps,  the  rectum  as  well,  during  a  spe- 
cially powerful  labor  pain. 

When  the  back  of  the  calf  is  turned  to  the  right  side  or  the  left  the 
main  difference  is  that  in  addition  to  straightening  the  limbs  the  fetus 
must  be  rotated  to  turn  its  back  upward  before  extraction  is  at- 
tempted. In  this  case,  too,  it  ma}'^  be  difficult  to  bring  up  and 
straighten  the  lower  of  the  two  limbs  until  the  body  has  been  rotated 
into  its  proper  position.  Cord  the  upper  straightened  limb  and  head, 
then  rotate  the  body  and  search  for  the  second  missing  limb. 

Fore  limhs  hent  hack  from  the  shoulders. — This  is  an  exaggeration 
of  the  condition  just  named,  and  is  much  more  difficult  to  remedy, 
owing  to  the  distance  and  inaccessibility  of  the  missing  limb.  It 
usually  happens  with  the  proper  position  of  the  body,  the  back  of  the 
calf  being  turned  toward  the  back  of  the  mother.  The  head  presents 
in  the  passage  and  may  even  protrude  from  the  vulva  during  an 
active  labor  pain,  but  it  starts  back  like  a  spring  when  the  straining 
ceases.  Examination  with  the  oiled  hands  in  the  intervals  between 
the  pains  fails  to  detect  the  missing  limbs.  (PL  XVI,  fig.  1.)  If, 
however,  the  hand  can  be  introduced  during  a  pain  it  may  be  possible 
to  reach  the  elbow  or  upper  part  of  the  forearm.  In  the  absence  of  a 
pain  a  halter  or  noose  on  the  head  may  be  used  to  advance  the  whole 
body  until  the  forearm  can  be  seized  just  below  the  elbow.  This 
being  firmly  held  and  the  head  or  body  pushed  back  into  the  womb, 
room  may  be  obtained  for  bringing  up  the  knee.  The  forearm  is 
used  as  a  lever,  its  upper  part  being  strongly  forced  back  while  its 
lower  part  is  pressed  forward.  If  a  pain  supervenes  the  hold  must 
be  retained,  and  whatever  gain  has  been  made  must  be  held  if  pos- 
sible. Then  during  the  next  pain,  by  pushing  back  the  body  and  con- 
tinuing to  operate  the  forearm  as  a  lever,  a  still  further  advance  may 
be  made.  As  the  knee  is  brought  up  in  this  way,  the  hand  is  slid 
down  from  the  elbow  toward  the  knee,  which  is  finally  brought  up 
over  the  brim  of  the  pelvis  and  into  the  passage.  It  is  now  corded 
at  the  knee,  and  the  subsequent  procedure  is  as  described  in  the  last 
article.  In  a  large,  roomy  cow  with  a  small  calf  the  latter  may  pass 
with  one  or  both  forelegs  bent  back,  but  this  is  a  very  exceptional 
case,  and,  as  early  assistance  is  the  most  successful,  there  should  never 
be  delay  in  hope  of  such  a  result. 

One  fore  limh  crossed  over  the  hack  of  the  neck. — This  is  a  rare 
obstacle  to  calving,  but  one  that  not  altogether  unknown.  The  hand 
introduced  into  the  passage  feels  the  head  and  one  forefoot,  and 
farther  back  on  the  same  side  of  the  other  foot,  from  which  the  womb 
can  be  traced  obliquely  across  the  back  of  the  neck.  (PI.  XVI, 
fig.  3.)  This  foot,  projecting  transversely,  is  liable  to  bruise  or  tear 
the  vagina.    If  still  deeply  engaged  in  the  vagina,  it  may  be  seized 


DISEASES   OF    THE    GENERATIVE    OEGANS.  189 

and  pushed  across  to  the  opposite  side  of  the  neck,  when  the  presenta- 
tion will  be  natural. 

Head  hent  doion  heneath  the  neck. — In  this  case,  with  drooping 
belly  and  womb  allowing  the  brim  of  the  pelvis  to  form  a  ridge, 
the  advancing  calf,  having  unduly  depressed  its  nose,  strikes  it  on 
the  brim  of  the  pelvis,  and  the  neck  advancing,  the  head  is  bent  back 
and  the  poll  and  ears  either  enter  the  pelvis  or  strike  against  its 
brim.  The  two  forefeet  present,  but  they  make  no  progress,  and  the 
oiled  hand  introduced  can  detect  no  head  until  the  poll  is  felt  at  the 
entrance  of  the  pelvis,  between  the  forearms.  The  two  forefeet 
must  be  fixed  with  running  nooses  and  dragged  on  moderately  while 
the  oiled  hand  seeks  to  bring  up  the  head.  The  hand  is  slid  down 
over  the  forehead  and  brim  of  the  pelvis  until  the  nose  is  reached, 
when  it  is  passed  into  the  mouth,  the  muzzle  resting  in  the  palm  of 
the  hand.  The  legs  are  now  pushed  upon,  and  in  the  space  thus 
gained  the  muzzle  is  drawn  up  so  as  to  enter  it  into  the  pelvis.  In 
doing  this  the  operator  must  carefully  see  that  the  mouth  does  not 
drop  open  so  that  the  sharp,  front  teeth  cut  through  the  floor  of 
the  womb.  Should  this  danger  threaten,  the  hand  should  be  made 
to  cover  the  lower  jaw  as  well.  The  lessened  security  of  the  hold 
is  more  than  compensated  by  the  safety  of  the  procedure.  With 
the  nose  in  the  pelvis,  it  has  only  to  be  drawn  forward  and  the  par- 
turition is  natural. 

Head  hent  down  heneath  the  hreast. — This  is  an  exaggerated  con- 
dition of  that  last  named.  The  head,  arrested  by  the  brim  of  the 
pelvis  and  already  bent  back  on  the  neck,  is  pressed  farther  with 
each  successive  throe  until  it  has  passed  between  the  forelegs  and 
lodges  beneath  the  breast  bone.  (PL  XVI,  fig.  4.)  On  examina- 
tion, the  narrow  upper  border  of  the  neck  is  felt  between  the  fore- 
arms, but  as  a  rule  the  head  is  out  of  reach  below.  Keeping  the 
hand  on  the  neck  and  dragging  on  the  feet  by  the  aid  of  ropes,  the 
hand  may  come  to  touch  and  seize  the  ear,  or,  still  better,  one  or  two 
fingers  may  be  inserted  into  the  orbit  of  the  eye. 

Then  in  pushing  back  upon  the  limbs,  with  or  without  the  aid  of 
a  repeller  applied  against  the  shoulder,  space  may  be  obtained  to 
draw  the  head  into  a  vertical  position,  and  even  to  slip  the  hand 
down  so  as  to  seize  the  nose.  Should  it  prove  impossible  to  draw  the 
head  up  with  the  unassisted  fingers,  a  blunt  hook  (PL  XXI,  fig.  6) 
may  be  inserted  into  the  orbit,  on  which  an  assistant  may  drag  while 
another  pushes  upon  the  limbs  or  repeller.  Meanwhile  the  operator 
may  secure  an  opportunity  of  reaching  and  seizing  the  nose  or  of 
passing  a  blunt  hook  into  the  angle  of  the  mouth.  Success  will  be 
better  assured  if  two  hooks  (PL  XXI,  fig.  7)  are  inserted  in  the  two 
orbits,  so  as  to  draw  up  the  head  more  evenly.  In  other  cases  a  noose 
may  be  placed  on  the  upper  jaw,  or  even  around  both  jaws,  and  trac- 


190  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

tion  made  upon  this  and  on  the  hooks  in  the  orbits  while  the  legs  are 
pushed  back,  and  while  the  operator  pushes  back  on  the  poll  or  fore- 
head. In  still  more  difficult  cases,  in  which  even  the  orbits  can  not 
be  reached,  a  sharp  hook  on  the  end  of  a  straight  iron  rod  (PI.  XX, 
fig.  2)  may  be  inserted  over  the  lower  jaw  as  far  forward  as  it  can  be 
reached,  and  by  dragging  upon  this  while  the  body  is  pushed  back 
the  head  will  be  brought  up  sufficiently  to  allow  the  operator  to  reach 
the  orbit  or  nose.  If  even  the  jaw  can  not  be  reached,  the  hook  may 
be  inserted  in  the  neck  as  near  to  the  head  as  possible  and  traction 
employed  so  as  to  bring  the  head  within  reach. 

In  all  such  cases  the  cow's  head  should  be  turned  downhill,  and  in 
case  of  special  difficulty  she  should  be  turned  on  her  back  and  held 
there  until  the  head  is  secured.  In  old-standing  cases,  with  the  womb 
closely  clasping  the  body  of  the  calf,  relaxation  may  be  sought  by  the 
use  of  chloroform  or  a  full  dose  of  chloral  hydrate — 2  ounces;  the 
free  injection  of  warm  Avater  into  the  womb  will  also  be  useful. 

Head  turned  hack  on  the  shoulder. — With  a  natural,  anterior  pre- 
sentation this  may  happen  because  of  the  imperfect  dilation  of  the 
mouth  of  the  womb.  Under  the  throes  of  the  mother  the  forefeet 
pass  through  the  narrow  opening  into  the  vagina,  while  the  nose, 
striking  against  it  and  unable  to  enter,  is  pressed  backward  into  the 
womb  and  turns  aside  on  the  right  or  left  shoulder.  The  broad 
muzzle  of  the  calf  forms  an  especial  obstacle  to  entrance  and  favors 
this  deviation  of  the  head.  The  worst  form  of  this  deviation  is  the 
old  standing  one  with  shortening  of  the  muscles  of  the  neck  on  that 
side,  and  oftentimes  distortion  of  the  face  and  neck  bones,  as  noticed 
under  "Monstrosities"  (p.  180). 

When  the  head  is  bent  on  the  shoulder  the  feet  appear  in  the  natural 
way,  but  no  progress  is  made,  and  examination  reveals  the  absence  of 
the  nose  from  between  the  knees,  and  farther  back,  from  above  and 
between  the  elbows,  a  smooth  rounded  mass  is  felt  extending  to  the 
right  or  left,  which  further  examination  will  identify  with  the  neck. 
Following  the  upper  border  of  this  the  hand  reaches  the  crown  of 
the  head  with  the  ears,  and  still  further  the  eyes,  or  even,  in  a  small 
calf,  the  nose. 

As  the  bulky  head  of  the  calf  can  not  be  extracted  along  with  the 
shoulders,  it  becomes  necessary  to  push  the  body  of  the  fetus  back  and 
straighten  out  the  head  and  neck.  The  cow  should  be  laid  with  her 
head  downhill  and  with  that  side  up  toward  which  the  head  is  turned. 
If  the  throes  are  very  violent,  or  the  womb  strongly  contracted  on  the 
calf,  it  may  be  best  to  seek  relaxation  by  giving  chloroform,  or  2 
ounces  of  laudanum,  or  2  ounces  of  chloral  hydrate.  If  the  calf  or 
the  passages  are  dry,  sweet  oil  may  be  injected,  or  the  whole  may  be 
liberally  smeared  with  fresh  lard.  In  the  absence  of  these,  warm 
water  rendered  slightly  slippery  by  Castile  soap  may  be  injected  into 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  191 

the  womb  in  quantity.  Ropes  with  running  nooses  are  placed  on  the 
presenting  feet  and  the  oiled  hand  introduced  to  find  the  head.  If, 
now,  the  fingers  can  be  passed  inside  the  lower  jawbone,  and  drag  the 
head  upward  and  toward  the  passage,  it  unwinds  the  spiral  turn  given 
to  the  neck  in  bending  back,  and  greatly  improves  the  chances  of 
bringing  forward  the  nose.  If,  at  first,  or  if  now,  the  lower  jaw  can 
be  reached,  a  noose  should  be  placed  around  it  behind  the  incisor 
teeth  and  traction  made  upon  this,  so  that  the  head  may  continue  to 
be  turned,  forehead  up,  toward  the  spine  and  jaws  down,  thereby 
continuing  to  undo  the  screw-like  curve  of  the  neck.  If,  on  the  con- 
trary, the  nose  is  dragged  upon  by  a  cord  passing  over  the  upper 
border  of  the  neck,  the  screwlike  twist  is  increased  and  the  resistance 
of  the  bones  and  joints  of  the  neck  prevents  any  straightening  of  the 
head.  As  soon  as  the  lower  jaw  has  been  seized  by  the  hand  or 
noose,  a  repeller  (PL  XX,  fig.  7),  planted  on  the  inside  of  the  elbow 
or  shoulder  most  distant  from  the  head,  should  be  used  to  push  back 
the  body  and  turn  it  in  the  womb,  so  that  the  head  may  be  brought 
nearer  to  the  outlet.  In  this  way  the  head  can  usually  be  brought 
into  position  and  the  further  course  of  delivery  will  be  natural. 

Sometimes,  however,  the  lower  jaw  can  not  be  reached  with  the 
hand,  and  then  the  orbit  or,  less  desirably,  the  ear,  may  be  availed  of. 
The  ear  may  be  pulled  by  the  hand,  and  by  the  aid  of  the  repeller  on 
the  other  shoulder  the  calf  may  be  so  turned  that  the  lower  jaw  may 
be  reached  and  availed  of.  Better  still,  a  clamp  (PI.  XVIII,  figs.  3 
and  4)  is  firmly  fixed  on  the  ear  and  pulled  by  a  rope,  while  the  re- 
peller is  used  on  the  opposite  shoulder,  and  the  hand  of  the  operator 
pulls  on  the  lower  border  of  the  neck  and  lifts  it  toward  the  other 
side.  To  pull  on  the  upper  border  of  the  neck  is  to  increase  the  spiral 
twist,  while  to  raise  the  lower  border  is  to  undo  it.  If  the  outer 
orbit  can  be  reached,  the  fingers  may  be  inserted  into  it  so  as  to  em- 
ploy traction,  or  a  blunt  finger  hook  (PI.  XXI,  fig.  8)  may  be  used, 
or  a  hook  with  a  rope  attached,  or,  finally,  a  hook  on  the  end  of  a 
long  staff.  Then,  with  the  assistance  of  the  repeller,  the  body  may 
be  so  turned  and  the  head  advanced  that  the  lower  jaw  may  be 
reached  and  availed  of. 

In  case  neither  the  ears  nor  the  orbit  can  be  reached,  a  cord  should 
be  passed  around  the  neck  of  the  calf  as  near  the  head  as  possible, 
and  traction  made  upon  that  while  the  opposite  shoulder  is  pushed 
toward  the  opposite  side  by  the  repeller,  assisted  bv  the  hand  drag- 
ging on  the  lower  border  of  the  neck.  To  aid  the  hand  in  passing  a 
rope  around  the  neck  a  cord  carrier  (PI.  XXI,  fig.  5)  is  in  use.  It 
fails,  however,  to  help  us  in  the  most  difficult  part  of  the  operation — 
the  passing  of  the  cord  down  on  the  deep  or  farthest  side  of  the 
neck — and  to  remedy  this  I  have  devised  a  cord  carrier,  furnished 
with  a  ring  at  the  end,  a  joint  6  or  8  inches  from  the  end,  and  another 


192  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

ring  on  the  handle,  close  to  this  joint.  (PL  XX,  fig.  4.)  A  cord  is 
passed  through  both  rings  and  a  knot  tied  on  its  end,  just  back  of  the 
terminal  ring.  The  instrument,  straightened  out,  is  inserted  until  it 
reaches  just  bej^ond  the  upper  border  of  the  neck,  when,  by  dragging 
on  the  cord,  the  movable  segment  is  bent  down  on  the  farther  side  of 
the  neck,  and  is  pushed  on  until  it  can  be  felt  at  its  lower  border. 
The  hand  noAv  seizes  the  knotted  end  of  the  cord  beneath  the  lower 
border  of  the  neck  and  pulls  it  through  while  the  carrier  is  with- 
drawn, the  cord  sliding  through  its  rings.  The  cord,  pushed  up  as 
near  to  the  head  as  possible,  is  furnished  with  a  running  noose  by 
tying  the  knotted  end  round  the  other,  or,  better,  the  two  ends  are 
twisted  around  each  other  so  as  to  give  a  firm  hold  on  the  neck  with- 
out dangerously  compressing  the  blood  vessels.  By  pushing  on  the 
opposite  shoulder  with  the  repeller,  and  assisting  with  the  hand  on 
shoulder,  breastbone,  or  lower  border  of  the  neck,  such  a  change  of 
position  will  be  secured  as  will  speedily  bring  the  head  within  reach. 
Afterwards  proceed  as  described  above. 

These  cases  are  always  trying,  but  it  is  very  rarely  necessary  to 
resort  to  embryotomy.  When  absolutely  required,  first  remove  one 
fore  limb,  and  then,  if  still  unsuccessful,  the  other,  after  which  the 
head  can  easily  be  secured.     (See  "  Embryotomy,"  p.  200.) 

Head  turned  upward  and  hachward. — In  this  case  the  face  rests 
upon  the  spine ;  the  forefeet  appear  alone  in  the  passage,  but  fail  to 
advance,  and  on  examination  the  rounded,  inferior  border  of  the 
neck  can  be  felt,  extending  upward  and  backward  beneath  the  spine 
of  the  dam,  and  if  the  calf  is  not  too  large  the  hand  may  reach  the 
lower  jaw  or  even  the  muzzle.  (PI.  XVI,  fig.  5.)  A  repeller  is 
planted  in  the  breast  and  the  body  of  the  calf  pushed  backward  and 
downward  so  as  to  make  room  and  bring  the  head  nearer  to  the 
passage;  or  in  some  cases  the  body  may  be  pushed  back  sufficiently 
by  the  use  of  the  forelimbs  alone.  Meanwhile  the  head  is  seized  by 
the  ear  or  the  eye  socket,  or,  if  it  can  be  reached,  by  the  lower  jaw, 
and  pulled  downward  into  position  as  space  is  obtained  for  it.  If 
the  hand  alone  is  insufficient,  the  blunt  hooks  may  be  inserted  in  the 
orbits  or  in  the  angle  of  the  mouth,  or  a  noose  may  be  placed  on  the 
lower  jaw, "and  by  traction  the  head  will  be  easily  advanced.  In  case 
of  a  large  fetus,  the  head  of  which  is  beyond  reach,  even  when  trac- 
tion is  made  on  the  limbs,  a  rope  may  be  passed  around  the  neck  and 
pulled,  while  the  breastbone  is  pressed  downward  and  backward  by 
the  repeller,  and  soon  the  change  of  position  will  bring  the  orbit  or 
lower  jaw  within  reach.  With  the  above  described  position  the 
standing  position  is  most  favorable  for  success,  but  if  the  calf  is 
placed  with  its  back  down  toward  the  udder,  and  if  the  head  is  bent 
down  under  the  brim  of  the  pelvis,  the  best  position  for  the  cow  is 
on  her  back,  with  her  head  downhill. 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  193 

In  neglected  cases,  with  death  and  putrefaction  of  the  fetus  and 
dryness  of  the  passages,  it  may  be  necessary  to  extract  in  pieces.  (See 
"  Embryotomy,"  p.  200.) 

Outward  direction  of  the  stifles — Abduction  of  hind  limhs. — As  an 
obstacle  to  parturition,  this  is  rare  in  cows.  It  is  most  liable  to 
take  place  in  coavs  with  narrow  hip  bones,  and  when  the  service  has 
been  made  by  a  bull  having  great  breadth  across  the  quarter.  The 
calf,  taking  after  the  sire,  presents  an  obstacle  to  calving  in  the 
breadth  of  its  quarters,  and  if  at  the  same  time  the  toes  and  stifles 
are  turned  excessively  outward  and  the  hocks  inward  the  combined 
breadth  of  the  hip  bones  above  and  the  stifles  below  may  be  so  great 
that  the  pelvis  will  not  easily  admit  them.  After  the  forefeet,  head, 
and  shoulders  have  all  passed  out  through  the  vulva,  further  progress 
suddenly  and  unaccountably  ceases,  and  some  dragging  on  the  parts 
already  delivered  does  not  serve  to  bring  away  the  hind  parts.  The 
oiled  hand  introduced  along  the  side  of  the  calf  will  discover  the 
obstacle  in  the  stifle  joints  turned  directly  outward  and  projecting 
on  each  side  bej^ond  the  bones  which  circumscribe  laterally  the  front 
entrance  of  the  pelvis.  The  evident  need  is  to  turn  the  stifles  in- 
ward ;  this  may  be  attempted  by  the  hand  introduced  by  the  side  of 
the  calf,  which  is  meanwhile  rotated  gently  on  its  own  axis  to  favor 
the  change  of  position.  To  correct  the  deviation  of  the  hind  limb  is, 
however,  very  difficult,  as  the  limbs  themselves  are  out  of  reach  and 
can  not  be  used  as  levers  to  assist.  If  nothing  can  be  done  by  push- 
ing the  body  of  the  calf  back  and  rotating  it  and  by  pressure  by  the 
hand  in  the  passages,  the  only  resort  appears  to  be  to  skin  the  calf 
from  the  shoulder  back,  cut  it  in  two  as  far  back  as  can  be  reached, 
then  push  the  buttocks  well  forward  into  the  womb,  bring  up  the 
hind  feet,  and  so  deliver. 

Hind  limhs  excessively  hent  on  the  hody  and  engaged  in  the  pel- 
vis.— In  this  case  the  presentation  is  apparently  a  normal,  anterior 
one;  forelimbs  and  head  advance  naturally  and  the  parturition  pro- 
ceeds until  half  the  chest  has  passed  through  the  external  passages, 
when  suddenly  progress  ceases  and  no  force  will  effect  farther  ad- 
vance. An  examination  with  the  oiled  hand  detects  the  presence,  in 
the  passages,  of  the  hind  feet  and  usually  the  hind  legs  up  to  above 
the  hocks.     (PI.  XVII,  fig.  1.) 

The  indications  for  treatment  are  to  return  the  hind  limbs  into 
the  body  of  the  womb.  If  they  have  not  advanced  too  far  into  the 
pelvis,  this  may  be  done  as  follows :  A  rope  with  running  noose  is 
passed  over  each  hind  foot  and  drawn  tight  around  the  lower  part  of 
the  hock :  the  ropes  are  then  passed  through  the  two  rings  in  the  small 
end  of  the  rotating  instrument  (PI.  XX,  fig.  5)  which  is  slid  into  the 
passages  until  it  reaches  the  hocks,  when  the  ropes,  drawn  tight,  are 
33071°— 16 13 


194  DISEASES    OF   CATTLE. 

tied  around  the  handle  of  the  instrument.  Then  in  the  intervals 
between  the  pains  the  hocks  are  pushed  forcibly  back  into  the  womb. 
If  by  this  means  flexion  can  be  effected  in  hocks  and  stifles,  success 
will  follow ;  the  hind  feet  will  pass  into  the  womb  and  clear  of  the 
brim  of  the  pelvis  and  the  body  may  now  be  advanced  without 
hindrance,  the  hind  limbs  falling  into  place  when  the  hip  joints  are 
extended.  At  the  same  time  the  pressure  upon  hind  limbs  must  not 
be  relaxed  until  the  buttocks  are  engaged  in  the  pelvis,  as  otherwise 
the  feet  may  again  get  over  the  brim  and  arrest  the  progress  of 
delivery. 

Wlien  the  hind  limbs  are  already  so  jammed  into  the  pelvis  that 
it  is  impossible  to  return  them,  the  calf  must  be  sacrificed  to  save  the 
mother.  Cords  with  running  nooses  are  first  put  on  the  two  hind 
feet.  The  body  must  be  skinned  from  the  shoulders  back  as  far  as 
can  be  reached,  and  is  to  be  then  cut  in  two,  if  possible,  back  of  the 
last  rib.  The  remainder  of  the  trunk  is  now  pushed  back  into  the 
body  of  the  womb  and  by  traction  upon  the  cords  the  hind  feet  are 
brought  up  into  the  passages  and  the  extraction  will  be  compara- 
tively easy. 

Hind  presentation  with  one  or  hoth  legs  bent  at  the  hock. — After 
the  bursting  of  the  water  bags,  though  labor  pains  continue,  no  part 
of  the  fetus  appears  at  the  vulva  unless  it  be  the  end  of  the  tail. 
On  examination  the  buttocks  are  felt  wedged  against  the  spine  at 
the  entrance  of  the  pelvis  and  beneath  them  the  bent  hock  joints 
resting  on  the  brim  of  the  pelvis  below.  (PI.  XVII,  fig.  3.)  The 
calf  has  been  caught  by  the  labor  pains  while  the  limb  was  bent 
beneath  it  and  has  been  jammed  into  or  against  the  rim  of  the  pelvis, 
so  that  extension  of  the  limb  became  impossible.  With  the  thigh 
bent  on  the  flank,  the  leg  on  the  thigh,  and  the  shank  on  the  leg,  and 
all  at  once  wedged  into  the  passage,  delivery  is  practically  impos- 
sible. 

The  obvious  remedy  is  to  push  the  croup  upward  and  forward  and 
extend  the  hind  legs,  and  in  the  early  stages  this  can  usually  be  ac- 
complished in  the  cow.  A  repeller  (PI.  XX,  fig.  7)  is  planted  across 
the  thighs  and  pointed  upward  toward  the  spine  of  the  cow  and 
pushed  forcibly  in  this  direction  during  the  intervals  between  labor 
jDains.  Meanwhile  the  oiled  hand  seizes  the  shank  just  below  the 
hock  and  uses  it  as  a  lever,  pushing  the  body  back  and  drawing  the 
foot  forward,  thus  effectually  seconding  the  action  of  the  repeller. 
Soon  a  distinct  gain  is  manifest,  and  as  soon  as  the  foot  can  be 
reached  it  is  bent  back  strongly  at  the  fetlock,  held  in  the  palm  of 
the  hand,  and  pulled  up,  while  the  repeller,  pressing  on  the  buttocks, 
assists  to  make  room  for  it.  In  this  way  the  foot  may  be  brought 
safely  and  easily  over  the  brim  of  the  pelvis  without  any  risk  of  lac- 
eration of  the  womb  of  the  foot.     After  the  foot  has  been  lifted  over 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GEISTERATIVE    ORGANS.  195 

the  brim,  the  whole  limb  can  be  promptly  and  easily  extended.  In 
cases  presenting  special  difficulty  in  raising  the  foot  over  the  brim, 
help  may  be  had  by  traction  on  a  rope  passed  around  in  front  of  the 
hock,  and  later  still  b}^  a  rope  with  a  noose  fastened  to  the  pastern. 
In  the  worst  cases,  with  the  buttocks  and  hocks  wedged  deeply  into 
the  passages,  it  may  prove  difficult  or  impossible  to  push  the  buttocks 
back  into  the  abdomen,  and  in  such  case  the  extension  of  the  hind 
limb  is  practically  impossible  without  mutilation.  In  some  roomy 
cows  a  calf  may  be  dragged  through  the  passages  by  ropes  attached 
to  the  bent  hocks,  but  even  when  this  is  possible  there  is  great  risk  of 
laceration  of  the  floor  of  the  vagina  by  the  feet.  The  next  resort  is 
to  cut  the  hamstring  just  above  the  point  of  the  hock  and  the  tendon 
on  the  front  of  the  limb  (flexor  metatarsi)  just  above  the  hock,  and 
even  the  sinews  behind  the  shank  bone  just  below  the  hock.  This 
allows  the  stifle  and  hock  to  move  independently  of  each  other,  the 
one  undergoing  extension  without  entailing  the  extension  of  the 
other;  it  also  allows  both  joints  to  flex  completely,  so  that  the  im- 
pacted mass  can  pass  through  a  narrower  channel.  If  now,  by  drag- 
ging on  the  hocks  and  operating  with  the  repeller  on  the  buttocks, 
the  latter  can  be  tilted  forward  sufficiently  to  allow  of  the  extension 
of  the  stifle,  the  jam  will  be  at  once  overcome,  and  the  calf  may  be 
extracted  with  the  hock  bent,  but  the  stifle  extended.  If  even  this 
can  not  be  accomplished,  it  may  now  be  possible  to  extract  the  whole 
mass  with  both  hocks  and  stifles  fully  bent.  To  attempt  this,  trac- 
tion may  be  made  on  the  rope  around  the  hocks  and  on  a  sharp  hook 
(PL  XX,  fig.  2)  passed  forward  between  the  thighs  and  hooked  on  to 
the  brim  of  the  pelvis.  Everything  else  failing,  the  offending  limb 
or  limbs  may  be  cut  off  at  the  hip  joint  and  extracted,  after  which 
extraction  may  proceed  by  dragging  on  the  remaining  limb,  or  by 
hooks  on  the  hip  bones.  Very  little  is  to  be  gained  by  cutting  off  the 
limb  at  the  hock,  and  the  stifle  is  less  accessible  than  the  hip,  and 
amputation  of  the  stifle  gives  much  poorer  results. 

Hind  limhs  hent  forward  from  the  hip — Breech  'presentation. — 
This  is  an  exaggeration  of  the  condition  last  described,  only  the 
hocks  and  stifles  are  fully  extended  and  the  whole  limb  carried  for- 
ward beneath  the  belly.  (PI.  XVII,  fig.  2.)  The  water  bags  appear 
and  burst,  but  nothing  presents  unless  it  may  be  the  tail.  Examina- 
tion in  this  case  detects  the  outline  of  the  buttocks,  with  the  tail  and 
anus  at  its  upper  part. 

The  remedy,  as  in  the  case  last  described,  consists  in  pushing  the 
buttock  upward  and  forward  with  a  repeller,  the  cow  being  kept 
standing  and  headed  downhill  until  the  thigh  bone  can  be  reached 
and  used  as  a  lever.  Its  upper  end  is  pushed  forward  and  its  lower 
end  raised  until,  the  joints  becoming  fully  flexed,  the  point  of  the 
hock  can  be  raised  above  the  brim  of  the  pelvis.    If  necessary  a  noose 


196  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

may  be  passed  around  the  leg  as  far  down  toward  the  hock  as  possible 
and  pulled  on  forcibly,  while  the  hand  presses  forward  strongly  on 
the  back  of  the  leg  above.  When  both  hocks  have  been  lodged  above 
the  brim  of  the  pelvis  the  further  procedure  is  as  described  under  the 
last  heading. 

If,  however,  the  case  is  advanced  and  the  buttocks  wedged  firmly 
into  the  passages,  it  may  be  impossible  safely  to  push  the  fetus  back 
into  the  womb,  and  the  calf  must  either  be  dragged  through  the  pas- 
sage as  it  is  or  the  limbs  or  the  pelvis  must  be  cut  off.  To  extract 
successfully  with  a  breech  presentation  the  cow  must  be  large  and 
roomy  and  the  calf  not  too  large.  The  first  step  in  this  case  is  to 
separate  the  pelvic  bones  on  the  two  sides  by  cutting  from  before 
backward,  exactly  in  the  median  line  below  and  where  the  thighs 
come  together  above.  This  may  be  done  with  a  strong  embryotomy 
knife,  but  is  most  easily  accomplished  with  the  long  embryotome 
(PL  XX,  fig.  3).  The  form  which  I  have  designed  (PI.  XX,  fig.  1), 
with  a  short  cutting  branch  jointed  to  the  main  stem,  is  to  be  pre- 
ferred, as  the  short  cutting  piece  may  be  folded  on  the  main  stem  so 
that  its  cutting  edge  will  be  covered,  and  it  can  be  introduced  and 
extracted  without  danger.  This  is  pushed  forward  beneath  the  calf's 
belly,  and  the  cutting  arm  opened,  inserted  in  front  of  the  brim  of 
the  pelvis  and  pulled  forcibly  back  through  the  whole  length  of  the 
pelvic  bones.  The  divided  edges  are  now  made  to  overlap  each  other 
and  the  breadth  of  the  haunch  is  materially  reduced.  One  end  of  the 
cord  may  then  be  passed  forward  by  means  of  a  cord  carrier  (PI. 
XXI,  fig.  5)  on  the  inner  side  of  one  thigh  until  it  can  be  seized  at 
the  stifle  by  the  hand  passed  forward  on  the  outer  side  of  that  thigh. 
This  end  is  now  pulled  back  through  the  vagina,  the  other  end 
passed  through  the  cord  carrier  and  passed  forward  on  the  inner  side 
of  the  other  thigh  until  it  can  be  seized  at  the  stifle  by  the  hand 
passed  forward  outside  that  thigh.  This  end  is  drawn  back  through 
the  vagina  like  the  first,  and  is  tied  around  the  other  so  as  to  form  a 
running  noose.  The  rope  is  now  drawn  through  the  ring  until  it 
forms  a  tight  loop,  encircling  the  belly  just  in  front  of  the  hind 
limbs.  On  this  strong  traction  can  be  made  Avithout  interfering 
with  the  full  flexion  of  the  limbs  on  the  body,  and  if  the  case  is  a 
suitable  one,  and  the  body  of  the  fetus  and  the  passages  are  both 
well  lubricated  with  oil  or  lard,  a  successful  parturition  may  be  ac- 
complished. A  less  desirable  method  is  to  put  a  rope  around  one 
thigh  or  a  rope  around  each  and  drag  upon  these,  but  manifestly 
the  strain  is  not  so  directly  on  the  spine,  and  the  limbs  may  be 
somewhat  hampered  in  flexion. 

This  metliod  being  inapplicable,  the  next  resort  is  to  cut  off  one  or 
both  hind  limbs  at  the  hip  joint.    Free  incisions  are  made  on  the  side 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENEEATIVE    ORGANS.  197 

of  the  haunch  so  as  to  expose  the  hip  joint,  and  the  muscles  are  cut 
away  from  the  head  of  the  thigh  bone  down  to  its  narrow  neck, 
around  which  a  rope  is  passed  and  firmly  fixed  with  a  running  noose. 
The  joint  is  now  cut  into  all  around,  and  while  traction  is  made  on 
the  cord  the  knife  is  inserted  into  the  inner  side  of  the  joint  and  the 
round  ligament  severed.  The  cord  may  now  be  dragged  upon  forci- 
bly, and  the  muscles  and  other  parts  cut  through  as  they  are  drawn 
tense,  until  finally  the  whole  member  has  been  extracted.  Traction 
on  the  rope  round  the  other  thigh  will  now  suffice  to  extract,  in  most 
cases,  but  if  it  should  fail  the  other  limb  may  be  cut  off  in  the 
same  manner,  and  then  hooks  inserted  in  front  of  the  brim  of  the 
pelvis  or  in  the  openings  in  the  bones  of  its  floor  (obturator  fora- 
mina) will  give  sufficient  purchase  for  extraction.  Another  method 
is  to  insert  a  Imife  between  the  bone  of  the  rump  (sacrum)  and  the 
hip  bone  and  sever  their  connections;  then  cut  through  the  joint 
(symphysis)  between  the  two  hip  bones  in  the  median  line  of  the 
floor  of  the  pelvis,  and  then  with  a  hook  in  the  opening  on  the 
pelvic  bones  (obturator  foramen)  drag  upon  the  limb  and  cut  the 
tense  soft  parts  until  the  limb  is  freed  and  extracted. 

Presentation  of  the  hack. — In  this  presentation  straining  may  be 
active,  but  after  the  rupture  of  the  water  bags  no  progress  is  made, 
and  the  hand  introduced  will  recognize  the  back  with  its  row  of 
spinous  processes  and  the  springing  ribs  at  each  side  pressed  against 
the  entrance  to  the  pelvis.  (PI.  XVII,  fig.  6.)  The  presence  or 
absence  of  the  ribs  will  show  whether  it  is  the  region  of  the  chest 
or  the  loins.  By  feeling  along  the  line  of  spines  until  the  ribs  are 
met  with  we  shall  learn  that  the  head  lies  in  that  direction.  If,  on 
the  contrary,  we  follow  the  ribs  until  they  disappear,  and  a  blank 
space  is  succeeded  by  hip  bones,  it  shows  that  we  are  approaching 
the  tail.  The  head  may  be  turned  upward,  downward,  to  the  right 
side,  or  to  the  left. 

The  object  must  be  to  turn  the  fetus  so  that  one  extremity  or  the 
other  can  enter  the  passage,  and  the  choice  of  which  end  to  bring  for- 
ward will  depend  on  various  considerations.  If  one  end  is  much 
nearer  the  outlet  than  the  other,  that  would  naturally  be  selected  for 
extraction,  but  if  they  are  equidistant  the  choice  would  fall  on  the 
hind  end,  as  having  only  the  two  limbs  to  deal  with  without  any  risk 
of  complication  from  the  head.  When  the  head  is  turned  upward 
and  forward  it  will  usually  be  preferable  to  bring  up  the  hind  limb, 
as,  owing  to  the  drooping  of  the  womb  into  the  abdomen,  rotation  of 
the  fetus  will  usually  be  easier  in  that  direction,  and  if  successful  the 
resulting  position  will  be  a  natural  posterior  presentation,  with  the 
back  of  the  calf  turned  toward  the  rump  of  the  cow.  Similarly  with 
the  croup  turned  upward  and  forward,  that  should  be  pushed  on  for- 


198  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

Tvara,  and  if  the  forefeet  and  head  can  be  secured  it  ■will  be  a  natural 
anterior  presentation,  with  the  back  of  the  calf  turned  upward 
toward  the  rump  of  the  cow. 

The  womb  should  be  injected  with  warm  water  or  oil,  and  the  turn- 
ing of  the  calf  will  demand  the  combined  action  of  the  repeller  and 
the  hand,  but  in  all  such  cases  the  operator  has  an  advantage  that  the 
body  of  the  fetus  is  wholly  within  the  body  of  the  womb,  and  there- 
fore movable  with  comparative  ease.  No  part  is  wedged  into  the- 
pelvic  passages  as  a  complication.  The  general  principles  are  the 
same  as  in  faulty  presentation  fore  and  hind,  and  no  time  should  be 
lost  in  making  the  manipulations  necessary  to  bring  the  feet  into  the 
pelvis,  lest  they  get  in  bent  or  otherwise  displaced  and  add  unneces- 
sary complications. 

With  a  traverse  direction  of  the  calf,  the  head  being  turned  to 
(me  side,  the  pressure  must  be  directed  laterally,  so  that  the  body 
will  glide  around  on  one  side  of  the  womb,  and  the  extremities  when 
reached  must  be  promptly  seized  and  brought  into  the  passages. 
Sometimes  a  fortunate  struggle  of  a  live  fetus  will  greatly  aid  in  rec- 
tifying the  position. 

Breast  and  aibdoTtien  presented — All  four  feet  in  the  passages. — In 
this  form  the  calf  lies  across  the  womb  with  its  roached  back  turned 
forward  and  its  belly  toward  the  pelvis.  All  four  feet  may  be  ex- 
tended and  engaged  in  the  passages,  or  one  or  more  may  be  bent  on 
themselves  so  as  to  lie  in  front  of  the  pelvis.  The  head,  too,  may 
usually  be  felt  on  the  right  side  or  the  left,  and  if  detected  it  serves  to 
identify  the  exact  position  of  the  fetus.  The  position  may  further  be 
decided  upon  by  examination  of  the  feet  and  limbs.  With  the  limbs 
extended  the  front  of  the  hoofs  and  the  convex  aspect  of  the  bent 
pasterns  and  fetlocks  will  look  toward  that  flank  in  which  lie  the 
head  and  shoulders.  On  examination  still  higher  the  smooth,  even 
outline  of  the  knee  and  its  bend,  looking  toward  the  hind  parts, 
characterize  the  fore  limb,  while  the  sharp  prominence  of  the  point 
of  the  hock  and  the  bend  on  the  opposite  side  of  the  joint,  looking 
toward  the  head,  indicate  the  hind  limb.     (PI.  XVII,  fig.  5.) 

The  remedy  of  this  condition  is  to  be  sought  in  repelling  into  the 
w^omb  those  limbs  that  are  least  eligible  for  extraction,  and  bringing 
into  the  passages  the  most  eligible  extremities.  The  most  eligible  will 
usually  be  those  which  project  farthest  into  the  passages,  indicating 
the  nearer  proximity  of  that  end  of  the  calf.  An  exception  may, 
however,  be  made  in  favor  of  that  extremity  which  will  give  the  most 
natural  presentation.  Thus  if,  owing  to  obliquity  in  the  position  of 
the  fetus,  the  hind  extremities  promised  a  presentation  with  the  back 
of  the  fetus  turned  down  toward  the  udder,  and  the  anterior  extremi- 
ties one  with  the  back  turned  up  toward  the  spine,  the  latter  should 
be  selected.    Again,  if  the  choice  for  the  two  extremities  is  evenly 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  199 

balanced,  the  hind  may  be  chosen  as  offering  less  risk  of  complication, 
there  being  no  head  to  get  displaced. 

The  first  step  in  the  treatment  is  to  place  a  running  noose  on  each 
of  the  four  feet,  marking  those  of  the  fore  limbs  to  distinguish  them 
from  those  of  the  hind  ones.  In  case  it  is  proposed  to  bring  the 
anterior  extremities  into  the  passage,  a  noose  should  also  be  placed 
on  the  lower  jaw.  Then  run  the  ropes  attached  to  the  two  feet  that 
are  to  be  pushed  back  through  the  ring  of  a  cord  carrier  (PI.  XXI, 
fig.  5 ) ,  passing  the  rings  down  to  the  feet,  and  by  the  aid  of  the  car- 
rier push  them  well  back  into  the  womb  and  hold  them  there.  Mean- 
while drag  upon  the  ropes  attached  to  the  two  other  feet  so  as  to 
bring  them  into  the  passage  (or,  in  case  of  the  anterior  extremity,  on 
the  two  foot  ropes  and  the  head  one) .  The  other  feet  must  be  pushed 
back  into  the  womb  until  the  body  of  the  calf  is  fully  engaged  in  the 
passages.  After  this  they  can  no  longer  find  an  entrance,  but  must 
follow  as  the  body  escapes. 

NEGLECTED   AND  AGGRAVATED   CASES. 

In  laying  down  the  foregoing  rules  for  giving  assistance  in  critical 
cases  of  calving  it  is  not  intimated  that  all  cases  and  stages  can  be 
successfully  dealt  with.  Too  often  assistance  is  not  sought  for  many 
hours  or  even  days  after  labor  pains,  and  the  escape  of  the  waters 
intimate  the  danger  of  delay.  Not  seldom  the  long  delay  has  been 
filled  up  with  unintelligent  and  injurious  attempts  at  rendering  as- 
sistance, violent  pulling  when  resistance  is  insurmountable  without 
change  of  position,  injuries  to  the  vagina  and  womb  by  ill-considered 
but  too  forcibly  executed  attempts  to  change  the  position,  the  repeated 
and  long-continued  contact  with  rough  hands  and  rougher  ropes  and 
hooks,  the  gashes  with  knives  and  lacerations  with  instruments  in 
ignorant  hands,  the  infecting  material  introduced  on  filthy  hands  and 
instruments,  and  the  septic  inflammations  started  in  the  now  dry 
and  tender  passages  and  womb.  Not  infrequently  the  death,  putre- 
faction, and  bloating  of  the  calf  in  the  womb  render  the  case  ex- 
tremely unpromising  and  make  it  impossible  to  apply  successfully 
many  of  the  measures  above  recommended.  The  labor  pains  of  the 
cow  may  have  practically  ceased  from  exhaustion;  the  passages  of 
the  A^agina  may  be  so  dry,  tender,  friable,  red,  and  swollen  that  it 
requires  considerable  effort  even  to  pass  the  oiled  hand  through  them, 
and  the  extraction  of  the  calf  or  any  portion  of  it  through  such  a 
channel  seems  a  hopeless  task;  the  womb  maj''  be  equally  dry,  in- 
flamed and  swollen,  so  that  its  lining  membrane  or  even  its  entire 
thickness  is  easily  torn ;  the  fetal  membranes  have  lost  their  natural, 
unctuous  and  slippery  character,  and  cling  firmly  to  the  dry  walls 
of  the  womb,  to  the  dry  skin  of  the  calf,  or  to  the  hands  of  the  op- 
erator;  the  dead  and  putrefying  calf  may  be  so  bloated  with  gases 


200  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

that  the  womb  has  been  overdistended  by  its  presence,  and  the  two 
adhere  so  closely  that  the  motion  of  the  one  on  the  other  is  practically 
impossible.  In  other  cases  reckless  attempts  to  cut  the  calf  in  pieces 
have  left  raw  surfaces  with  projecting  bones  which  dangerously 
scratch  and  tear  the  womb  and  passages. 

In  many  cases  the  extreme  resort  must  be  had  of  cutting  the  fetus 
to  pieces  (embryotomy),  or  the  still  more  redoubtable  one  of  Ca^sar- 
ean  section  (extraction  through  the  flank). 

DISSECTION    OF    THE    UNBORN    CALF    (EMBRYOTOMY). 

In  some  cases  the  dissection  of  the  calf  is  the  only  feasible  means 
of  delivering  it  through  the  natural  passages;  and  while  it  is  espe- 
cially applicable  to  the  dead  calf,  it  is  also  on  occasion  called  for  in 
the  case  of  the  living.  As  a  rule,  the  living  calf  should  be  preserved, 
if  possible,  but  if  this  threatens  to  entail  the  death  of  the  cow  it  is 
only  in  the  case  of  offspring  of  rare  value  that  its  preservation  is  to 
be  preferred.  To  those  acquainted  with  the  toil,  fatigue,  and  discom- 
fort of  embryotomy,  no  discussion  is  necessary  so  long  as  there  is  a 
prospect  of  success  from  the  simple  and  generally  easier  method  of 
rectifying  the  faulty  position  of  the  calf.  When  the  correction  of 
the  position  is  manifestly  impossible,  however,  when  distortions  and 
monstrosities  of  the  fetus  successfully  obstruct  delivery,  when  the 
pelvic  passages  are  seriously  contracted  by  fractures  and  bony 
growths,  when  the  passages  are  virtually  almost  closed  by  swelling, 
or  when  the  calf  is  dead  and  excessively  swollen,  no  other  resort  may 
be  available.  In  many  cases  of  distortion  and  displacement  the  dis- 
memberment of  the  entire  calf  is  unnecessary,  the  removal  of  the 
offending  member  being  all  that  is  required.  It  will  be  convenient, 
therefore,  to  describe  the  various  suboperations  one  by  one  and  in  the 
order  in  which  they  are  usually  demanded. 

Amputation  of  the  fore  liirib. — In  cutting  off  a  fore  limb  it  is  the 
one  presenting  that  should  be  selected,  since  it  is  much  more  easily 
operated  on,  and  its  complete  removal  from  the  side  of  the  chest 
affords  so  much  more  space  for  manipulation  that  it  often  makes  it 
easy  to  bring  the  other  missing  limb  or  the  head  into  position.  The 
first  consideration  is  to  skin  the  limb  from  the  fetlock  up  and  leave 
the  skin  attached  to  the  body.  The  reasons  for  this  are :  {a)  That  the 
skin  is  the  most  resistant  structure  of  the  limb,  and  when  it  has  been 
removed  the  entire  limb  can  be  easily  detached ;  ( 5 )  the  tough  skin 
left  from  the  amputated  limb  may  be  used  as  a  cord  in  subsequent 
traction  on  the  body  of  the  calf;  (c)  the  dissection  and  separation 
of  the  limb  are  far  more  safely  accomplished  under  the  protection 
of  the  enveloping  skin  than  if  the  operator's  hands  and  instruments 
were  in  direct  contact  with  the  walls  of  the  passages  or  womb;   {d) 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    OEGANS.  201 

the  dissection  can  be  much  more  easily  effected  while  the  skin  is 
stretched  by  the  left  hand,  so  as  to  form  a  comparatively  firmer  re- 
sistant point  for  the  knife,  than  when  it  is  attempted  to  cut  the  soft, 
yielding,  and  elastic  tissues  which  naturally  offer  little  solid  resist- 
ance, but  constantly  recede  before  the  cutting  edge  of  the  instrument. 
The  preservation  of  the  skin  is  therefore  a  cardinal  principle  in  the 
amputation  of  all  parts  in  which  it  is  at  all  feasible. 

The  presenting  foot  is  inclosed  in  a  noose  and  drawn  well  out  of 
the  passages.  Then  a  circular  incision  through  the  skin  is  made 
around  the  limb  just  above  the  fetlock.  From  this  the  skin  is  slit 
up  on  the  inner  side  of  the  limb  to  the  breast.  Then  the  projecting 
part  of  the  limb  is  skinned  up  to  the  vulva,  traction  being  made  on 
the  foot  by  an  assistant  so  as  to  expose  as  much  as  possible.  The 
embryotomy  knife  may  now  be  taken  (PI.  XXI,  fig.  2),  and  a  small 
hole  having  been  cut  in  the  free  end  of  the  detached  portion  of  skin, 
that  is  seized  by  the  left  hand  and  extended  while  its  firm  connec- 
tions with  the  deeper  structures  are  cut  through.  The  looser  con- 
nections can  be  more  quickly  torn  through  with  the  closed  fist  or 
the  tips  of  the  four  fingers  held  firmly  together  in  a  line  or  with  the 
spud,  of  which  there  are  several  kinds.  Much  of  the  upper  part  of 
the  limb  can  be  skinned  more  speedily  without  the  knife,  but  that 
must  be  resorted  to  to  cut  across  tough  bands  whenever  these  inter- 
rupt the  progress.  The  skinning  should  be  carried  upward  on  the 
outer  side  of  the  shoulder  blade  to  the  spine  or  nearly  so.  Then  with 
the  knife  the  muscles  attaching  the  elbow  and  shoulder  to  the  breast- 
bone are  cut  across,  together  with  those  on  the  inner  side  of  the  shoul- 
der joint  and  in  front  and  behind  it  as  far  as  these  can  be  reached. 
Steady  traction  is  now  made  upon  the  foot,  the  remaining  muscles 
attaching  the  shoulder  blade  to  the  trunk  are  torn  through  with  a 
cracking  noise,  and  the  whole  limb,  including  the  shoulder  blade  and 
its  investing  muscles,  comes  away.  If  the  shoulder  blade  is  left  the 
bulk  of  the  chest  is  not  diminished,  and  nothing  has  been  gained. 
Before  going  further  it  is  well  to  see  whether  the  great  additional 
space  thus  secured  in  the  passages  will  allow  of  the  missing  limb  or 
head  to  be  brought  into  position.  If  not,  the  other  presenting  part, 
limb  or  head,  is  to  be  amputated  and  extracted.  For  the  limb  the 
procedure  is  a  repetition  of  that  just  described. 

Amputation  of  the  head. — The  head  is  first  seized  and  drawn  well 
forward,  or  even  outside  the  vulva,  by  a  rope  with  a  running  noose 
placed  around  the  lower  jaw  just  behind  the  incisor  teeth,  by  a  sharp 
hook  inserted  in  the  arch  of  the  lower  jaw  behind  the  union  of  its 
two  branches  and  back  of  the  incisor  teeth,  or  by  hooks  inserted  in 
the  orbits,  or,  finally,  in  case  the  whole  head  protrudes,  by  a  halter. 
(PI.  XXI,  figs  4«  and  46.) 


202  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

In  case  the  whole  head  protrudes,  a  circular  incision  through  the 
skin  is  made  just  back  of  the  ear,  and  the  cut  edge  being  held  firmly 
by  the  left  hand,  the  neck  is  skinned  as  far  as  it  can  be  reached. 
Then  the  great  ligamentous  cord  above  the  spine  is  cut  across  at  the 
farthest  available  jDoint,  together  with  the  muscles  above  and  below 
the  spine.  Strong  traction  on  the  head  will  then  detach  it  at  this 
point  and  bring  it  away,  but  should  there  still  be  too  much  resistance 
the  knife  is  inserted  between  the  bodies  of  two  vertebrae  just  behind 
one  of  the  prominent  points  felt  in  the  median  line  below,  and  their 
connecting  fibrous  cartilage  is  cut  through,  after  which  compara- 
tively moderate  pulling  will  bring  it  away.  The  detached  neck  and 
body  at  once  slip  back  into  the  womb,  and  if  the  fore  limbs  are  now 
brought  up  and  pulled  they  are  advanced  so  far  upon  the  chest  that 
the  transverse  diameter  of  that  is  greatly  diminished  and  delivery 
correspondingly  facilitated. 

If  the  head  is  still  inclosed  in  the  vagina  two  methods  are  avail- 
able :  (1)  The  removal  of  the  lower  jaw  and  subsequent  separation  of 
the  head  from  the  neck;  (2)  the  skinning  of  the  whole  head  and  its 
separation  from  the  neck. 

To  remove  the  lower  jaw  the  skin  is  dissected  away  from  it  until 
the  throat  is  reached.  Then  the  muscles  of  the  cheeks  and  side  of 
the  jaw  (masseters)  are  cut  through  and  those  connecting  the  jaw 
with  the  neck.  When  traction  is  made  on  the  rope  around  the  lower 
jaw  it  will  usually  come  away  with  little  trouble.  Should  it  resist, 
its  posterior  extremity  on  each  side  (behind  the  grinding  teeth)  may 
be  cut  through  with  bone  forceps  or  with  a  guarded  bone  chisel. 
(PI.  XX,  fig.  8.)  After  the  removal  of  the  lower  jaw  the  way  will 
be  open  to  separate  the  head  from  the  neck,  the  knife  being  used  to 
cut  into  the  first  or  second  joint  from  below,  or  the  bone  forceps  or 
chisel  being  employed  to  cut  through  the  bones  of  the  neck.  Then 
traction  is  made  on  the  head  by  means  of  hooks  in  the  orbits,  and  the 
hand,  armed  with  an  embryotomy  knife,  is  introduced  to  cut  through 
<lie  tense  resisting  ligament  and  muscles  above  the  bones.  The  skin 
and  the  strong  ligamentous  cord  attached  to  the  poll  are  the  essential 
things  to  cut,  as  the  muscles  can  easily  be  torn  across.  Unless  there 
are  great  difficulties  in  the  way  it  is  well  to  skin  the  head  from  the 
eyes  back,  and  on  reaching  the  poll  to  cut  through  the  ligament  and 
then  bring  the  head  away  by  pulling. 

If  it  is  decided  to  remove  the  entire  head  at  once,  it  may  be  skinned 
from  the  front  of  the  eyes  back  to  behind  the  lower  jaw  below  and 
the  poll  above,  then  cut  through  the  muscles  and  ligaments  around 
the  first  joint  and  pull  the  head  away,  assisting,  if  need  be,  in  the 
separation  of  the  head  by  using  the  knife  on  the  ligament  of  the 
joint. 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  203 

If  the  calf  is  a  double-headed  monster,  the  skinning  of  the  head 
must  be  carried  backward  until  the  point  has  been  reached  where 
both  heads  branch  from  the  single  neck,  and  the  separation  must  be 
made  at  that  point.  The  muscles  and  ligaments  are  first  to  be  cut 
through;  and  if  the  part  can  not  then  be  detached  by  pulling,  the 
bodies  of  the  vertebrae  may  be  separated  by  passing  the  knife  through 
the  joint.  The  second  head  may  now  be  secured  by  a  noose  around 
the  lower  jaw  or  hooks  in  the  orbits  and  brought  up  into  place,  the 
body  being  pushed  back  toward  the  other  side  by  a  repeller,  so  as  to 
make  room. 

It  should  be  added  that,  except  in  the  case  of  a  double-headed 
monster,  or  in  case  of  the  head  protruding  or  nearly  so,  and  one  or 
both  fore  limbs  presenting,  it  is  rarely  desirable  to  undertake  ampu- 
tation of  the  head.  The  space  desirable  in  the  passages  can  usually 
be  obtained  by  the  much  simpler  and  easier  procedure  of  removing 
one  or  both  fore  limbs. 

Amputation  of  the  hind  limhs. — This  is  sometimes  demanded  on 
the  one  extended  limb  when  the  other  can  not  be  brought  up  and  de- 
livery can  not  be  effected;  also  in  case  of  monsters  having  extra 
hind  limbs ;  when  the  calf  is  dead,  putrid,  and  bloated  with  gas ;  and 
in  some  cases  of  breech  presentation,  as  described  under  that  head. 

When  the  limb  is  extended  the  guiding  principles  are  as  in  the  case 
of  the  fore  limbs.  The  skin  is  cut  through  circularly  above  the  fet- 
lock and  slit  up  to  beneath  the  pelvic  bones  on  the  inner  side  of  the 
thigh.  It  is  then  dissected  from  the  other  parts  as  high  as  it  has  been 
slit  on  the  inner  side  and  to  above  the  prominence  ( trochanter  major) 
on  the  upper  end  of  the  thigh  bone  on  the  outer  side  of  the  joint.  In 
this  procedure  the  hands  and  spud  can  do  much,  but  owing  to  the 
firmer  connections  the  knife  will  be  more  frequently  required  than  in 
the  case  of  the  fore  limb.  The  muscles  are  now  cut  through  all 
around  the  hip  joint,  and  strong  traction  is  made  by  two  or  three  men 
on  the  limb.  If  there  is  still  too  much  resistance,  a  knife  is  inserted 
into  the  joint  on  the  inner  side  and  its  round  ligament  cut  through, 
after  which  extraction  will  be  comparatively  easy.  This  accom- 
plished, it  will  often  be  possible  to  extract  the  fetus  with  the  other 
leg  turned  forward  into  the  womb.  If  the  calf  is  bloated  with  gas,  it 
may  be  necessary  to  remove  the  other  leg  in  the  same  way,  and  even 
to  cut  open  the  chest  and  abdomen  and  remove  their  contents  before 
extraction  can  be  effected.  In  the  case  of  extra  limbs  it  may  be  pos- 
sible to  bring  them  up  into  the  passages  after  the  presenting  hind 
limbs  have  been  removed.  If  this  is  not  practicable,  they  may  be  de- 
tached by  cutting  them  through  at  the  hip  joint,  as  described  under 
"  Breech  presentation,"  page  195. 

Another  method  of  removing  the  hind  limb  is,  after  having 
skinned  it  over  the  quarter,  to  cut  through  the  pelvic  bones  from 


204  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

before  backward,  in  the  median  line  below,  by  knife,  saw,  or  long 
embryotome  (PL  XX,  fig.  1),  and  then  disjoint  the  bones  of  the 
spine  (sacrum)  and  the  hip  bone  (iliimi)  on  that  side  with  embryo- 
tome,  knife,  or  saw,  and  then  drag  away  the  entire  limb,  along  with 
all  the  hip  bones  on  that  side.  This  has  the  advantage  of  securing 
more  room  and  thereby  facilitating  subsequent  operations.  Both 
limbs  may  be  removed  in  this  way,  but  on  the  removal  of  the  second 
the  operator  is  without  any  solid  point  to  drag  upon  in  bringing  away 
the  remainder  of  the  fetus. 

Division  across  the  middle  of  the  hody. — In  cases  of  extra  size, 
inonstrosity,  or  distortion  of  one  end  of  the  body  it  may  be  requisite 
to  cut  the  body  in  two  and  return  the  half  from  the  passages  into 
womb,  even  after  one-half  has  been  born.  The  presenting  members 
are  dragged  upon  forcibly  by  assistants  to  bring  as  much  of  the 
body  as  possible  outside.  Then  cut  through  the  skin  around  the 
body  at  some  distance  from  the  vulva,  and  with  hand,  knife,  and  spud 
detach  it  from  the  trunk  as  far  back  into  the  passages  as  can  be 
reached.  Next  cut  across  the  body  at  the  point  reached,  beginning 
at  the  lower  part  (breast,  belly)  and  proceeding  up  toward  the  spine. 
This  greatly  favors  the  separation  of  the  backbone  when  reached,  and 
further  allows  of  its  being  extended  so  that  it  can  be  divided  higher 
up.  AVlien  the  backbone  is  reached,  the  knife  is  passed  between  the 
two  bones,  the  prominent  ridges  across  their  ends  acting  as  guides, 
and  by  dragging  and  twisting  the  one  is  easily  detached  from  the 
(.ther.  With  an  anterior  presentation  the  separation  should,  if  possi- 
ble, be  made  behind  the  last  rib,  while  with  a  posterior  presentation 
as  many  of  the  ribs  should  be  brought  away  as  can  be  accomplished. 
Having  removed  one  half  of  the  bocl}^,  the  remaining  half  is  to  be 
pushed  back  into  the  womb,  the  feet  sought  and  secured  with  nooses, 
and  the  second  half  removed  in  one  piece  if  possible ;  and  if  not,  then 
after  the  removal  of  the  extra  limb  or  other  cause  of  obstruction. 

Removed  of  the  contents  of  chest  or  ahdomen. — If  the  body  of  the 
calf  sticks  fast  in  the  passages  by  reason  of  the  mere  dryness  of  its 
skin  and  of  the  passages,  the  obstacle  may  be  removed  by  injecting 
sweet  oil  past  the  fetus  into  the  Avomb  through  a  rubber  or  other 
tube,  and  smearing  the  passages  freely  with  lard.  "Wlien  the  obstruc- 
tion depends  on  excess  of  size  of  the  chest  or  abdomen  or  thickening 
of  the  body  from  distorted  spine,  much  advantage  may  be  derived 
from  the  removal  of  the  contents  of  these  great  cavities  of  the  trunk. 
We  have  already  seen  how  the  haunches  may  be  narrowed  by  cutting 
the  bones  apart  in  the  median  line  below  and  causing  their  free  edges 
to  overlap  each  other.  The  abdomen  can  be  cut  open  by  the  em- 
bryotomy knife  or  the  long  embryotome  in  the  median  line,  or  at 
any  point,  and  the  contents  pulled  out  with  the  hand,  the  knife  being 
used  in  any  case  when  especial  resistance  is  encountered.     If  the 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  205 

abdomen  is  so  firmly  impacted  that  it  can  not  be  dealt  within  this 
way,  one  hind  limb  and  the  hip  bone  on  the  same  side  may  be  re- 
moved as  described  under  "Amputation  of  the  hind  limbs,"  page  203. 
This  will  allow"  the  introduction  of  the  hand  into  the  abdomen  from 
behind,  so  as  to  pull  out  the  contents.  By  introducing  an  embryot- 
omy knife  in  the  palm  of  the  hand  and  cutting  through  the  muscle 
of  the  diaphragm  the  interior  of  the  chest  can  be  reached  in  the 
same  way  and  the  heart  and  lungs  removed. 

When,  in  dealing  with  an  anterior  presentation,  it  becomes  neces- 
sary to  remove  the  contents  of  the  chest,  the  usual  course  is  to  cut 
through  the  connections  of  the  ribs  with  the  breastbone  (the  costal 
cartilages)  close  to  the  breastbbne  on  each  side,  and  from  the  abdo- 
men forward  to  the  neck.  Then  cut  through  the  muscles  connecting 
the  front  of  the  breastbone  w^ith  the  neck  and  its  hinder  end  with  the 
belly,  and  pull  out  the  entire  breastbone.  Having  torn  out  the  heart 
and  lungs  with  the  hand,  make  the  rib  cartilages  on  the  one  side  over- 
lap those  on  the  other,  so  as  to  lessen  the  thickness  of  the  chest,  and 
proceed  to  extract  the  body.  If  it  seems  needful  to  empty  the  abdo- 
men as  well,  it  is  easy  to  reach  it  by  cutting  through  the  diaphragm, 
which  separates  it  from  the  chest. 

Delivery  through  the  fank  {Ccesarean  section^  or  laparotomy). — 
This  is  sometimes  demanded,  when  the  distortion  and  narrowing  of 
the  hip  bones  are  such  as  to  forbid  the  passage  of  the  calf,  or  when 
inflammation  has  practically  closed  the  natural  passages  and  the 
progeny  is  more  valuable  and  worthy  of  being  saved  than  the  dam ; 
also  in  cases  in  which  the  cow  has  been  fatally  injured,  or  is  ill  beyond 
possibility  of  recovery  and  yet  carries  a  living  calf.  It  is  too  often  a 
last  resort  after  long  and  fruitless  efforts  to  deliver  by  the  natural 
channels,  and  in  such  cases  the  saving  of  the  calf  is  all  that  can  be 
expected,  the  exhausted  cow^,  already  the  subject  of  active  inflamma- 
tion and  too  often  also  of  putrid  poisoning,  is  virtually  beyond  hope. 
The  hope  of  saving  the  dam  is  greatest  if  she  is  in  good  health  and 
not  fatigued,  in  cases,  for  example,  in  which  the  operation  is  resorted 
to  on  account  of  broken  hip  bones  or  abnormally  narrow  passages. 

The  stock  owner  will  not  attempt  such  a  serious  operation  as  this. 
Yet,  if  the  mother  has  just  died  or  is  to  be  immediately  sacrificed, 
no  one  should  hesitate  to  resort  to  it  in  order  to  save  the  calf.  If 
alive,  it  is  important  to  have  the  cow  perfectly  still.  Her  left  fore  leg 
being  bent  at  the  knee  by  one  person,  another  may  seize  the  left  horn 
and  nose  and  turn  the  head  to  the  right  until  the  nose  rests  on  the 
spine  just  above  the  shoulder.  The  cow  will  sink  down  gently  on  her 
left  side  without  shock  or  struggle.  One  may  now  hold  the  head 
firmly  to  the  ground,  while  a  second,  carrying  the  end  of  the  tail  from 
behind  forward  on  the  inside  of  the  right  thigh,  pulls  upon  it  so  as  to 
keep  the  right  hind  limb  well  raised  from  the  ground.    If  time  presses 


206  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

she  may  be  operated  on  in  this  position,  or  if  the  cow  is  to  be  sacri- 
ficed a  blow  on  the  head  with  an  ax  will  produce  quietude.  Then 
the  prompt  cutting  into  the  abdomen  and  womb  and  the  extraction  of 
the  calf  requires  no  skill.  If,  however,  the  cow  is  to  be  preserved,  her 
two  forefeet  and  the  lower  hind  one  should  be  safely  fastened  to- 
gether and  the  upper  hind  one  drawn  back.  Two  ounces  chloral 
hydrate,  given  by  injection,  should  induce  sleep  in  20  minutes,  and 
the  operation  may  proceed.  In  case  the  cow  is  to  be  preserved,  wash 
the  right  flank  and  apply  a  solution  of  4  grains  of  corrosive  sublimate 
in  a  pint  of  water. 

Then,  with  an  ordinary  scalpel  or  knife,  dipped  in  the  above-men- 
tioned solution,  make  an  incision  from  2  inches  below  and  in  front 
of  the  outer  angle  of  the  hip  bone  in  a  direction  downward  and 
slightly  forward  to  a  distance  of  12  inches.  Cut  through  the  muscles, 
and  more  carefully  through  the  transparent  lining  membrane  of  the 
abdomen  (peritoneum) ,  letting  the  point  of  the  knife  lie  in  the  groove 
between  the  first  two  fingers  of  the  left  hand  as  they  are  slid  down 
inside  the  membrane  and  with  their  back  to  the  intestines.  An  as- 
sistant, whose  hands,  like  those  of  the  operator,  have  been  dipped  in 
the  sublimate  solution,  may  press  his  hands  on  the  wound  behind 
the  knife  to  prevent  the  protrusion  of  the  intestines.  The  operator 
now  feels  for  and  brings  up  to  the  wound  the  gravid  womb,  allowing 
it  to  bulge  well  through  the  abdominal  wound,  so  as  to  keep  back  the 
bowels  and  prevent  any  escape  of  water  into  the  abdomen.  This  is 
seconded  by  two  assistants,  who  press  the  lips  of  the  wound  against 
the  womb.  Then  an  incision  12  inches  long  is  made  into  the  womb  at 
its  most  prominent  point,  deep  enough  to  penetrate  its  walls,  but 
not  so  as  to  cut  into  the  water  bags.  In  cutting,  carefully  avoid 
the  cotyledons,  which  may  be  felt  as  hard  masses  inside.  By  pressure 
the  water  bags  may  be  made  to  bulge  out  as  in  natural  parturition, 
and  this  projecting  portion  may  be  torn  or  cut  so  as  to  let  the  liquid 
flow  down  outside  of  the  belly.  The  operator  now  plunges  his  hand 
into  the  womb,  seizes  the  fore  or  hind  limbs,  and  quickly  extracts  the 
calf  and  gives  it  to  an  attendant  to  convey  to  a  safe  place.  The  wojnb 
may  be  drawn  out,  but  not  until  all  the  liquid  has  flowed  out,  and  the 
fetal  membranes  must  be  separated  from  the  natural  cotyledons,  one 
by  one,  and  the  membranes  removed.  The  womb  is  noAv  emptied  with 
a  sponge,  which  has  been  boiled  or  squeezed  out  of  a  sublimate  solu- 
tion, and  if  any  liquid  has  fallen  into  the  abdomen  it  may  be  removed 
in  the  same  way.  A  few  stitches  are  now  placed  in  the  wound  in  the 
womb,  using  carbolized  catgut.  They  need  not  be  very  close  to- 
gether, as  the  w^ound  will  diminish  greatly  when  the  womb  con- 
tracts. Should  the  womb  not  contract  at  once  it  may  have  applied 
against  it  a  sponge  squeezed  out  of  a  cold  sublimate  solution,  or  it 
may  be  drawn  out  of  the  abdominal  wound  and  exposed  to  the  cold 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  207 

air  until  it  contracts.  Its  contraction  is  necessary  to  prevent  bleed- 
ing from  its  enormous  network  of  veins.  When  contracted,  the  womb 
is  returned  into  the  abdomen  and  the  abdominal  wound  sewed  up. 
One  set  of  stitches,  to  be  placed  at  intervals  of  2  inches,  is  passed 
through  the  entire  thickness  of  skin  and  muscles  and  tied  around 
two  quills  or  little  rollers  resting  on  the  skin.  (PI.  XXVII,  fig.  7.) 
These  should  be  of  silver,  and  may  be  cut  at  one  end  and  pulled  out 
after  the  wound  has  healed.  The  superficial  stitches  are  put  in  every 
half  inch  and  passed  through  the  skin  only.  They,  too,  may  be  of  sil- 
ver, or  pins  may  be  inserted  through  the  lips  and  a  fine  cord  twisted 
round  their  ends  like  a  figure  8.  (PI.  XXVII,  fig.  9.)  The  points 
of  the  pins  may  be  snipped  off  with  pliers.  The  edges  may  be  still 
further  held  together  by  the  application  of  Venice  turpentine,  melted 
so  as  to  become  firmly  adherent,  and  covered  with  a  layer  of  sterilized 
cotton  wool.  Then  the  whole  should  be  supported  by  a  bandage  fixed 
around  the  loins  and  abdomen. 


DISEASES  OF  THE  GENERATIVE  ORGANS. 

UEscraPTioN  of  plates. 

Plate  XII.  Fetal  calf  within  its  membranes  (at  mid  term).  The  uteriTS  is 
opened  on  the  left  side.  In  the  uterus  the  fetus  is  surrounded  by 
several  membranes  which  are  known  as  the  amnion  or  inner  layer,  the 
allantois  or  central  layer,  and  the  chorion  or  outer  layer.  The  amnion 
is  nearest  the  fetus  and  forms  a  closed  sac  around  it  filled  with  a 
fluid  known  as  liquor  amnii,  in  which  the  fetus  floats.  The  allantoia 
is  composed  of  two  layers,  which  form  a  closed  sac  in  connection  with 
the  urachus,  or  the  tube  which  extends  from  the  fetal  bladder  through 
the  umbilical  cord.  The  one  layer  of  the  allantois  is  spread  over  the 
outer  surface  of  the  amnion  and  the  other  over  the  inner  surface  of 
chorion.  The  allantois  also  contains  a  fluid  which  is  known  as  the 
allantoid  liquid.  The  chorion  is  the  outer  envelope  or  membrane  of 
the  fetus,  completely  inclosing  the  fetus  with  its  other  membranes. 
On  the  outer  surface  of  this  membrane  are  found  the  fetal  placentulfe, 
or  cotyledons,  which,  through  their  attachment  to  the  maternal  cotyle- 
dons, furnish  the  fetus  with  the  means  of  sustaining  life.  The  relation 
of  the  fetal  and  maternal  cotyledons  to  each  other  is  illustrated  on  the 
following  plate. 

Plate  XIII.     Pregnant  uterus  with  cotyledons. 

Fig.  1.  Uterus  of  the  cow  during  pregnancy,  laid  open  to  show  the  coty- 
ledons (d)  on  the  internal  surface  of  uterus  (c).  The  ovary  (a)  is 
shown  cut  across,  and  the  two  halves  are  laid  open  to  show  the  position 
of  the  discharged  ovum  at  a'. 
Fig.  2  illustrates  the  relation  of  the  fetal  and  maternal  parts  of  a  coty- 
ledon. A  portion  of  the  uterus  (A)  is  shown  with  the  maternal  coty- 
ledon (BB)  attached  to  it.  The  fetal  portion  (/))  consists  of  a  mass 
of  very  minute  hairlike  processes  on  the  chorion  (E),  which  fit  into 
corresponding  depressions  or  pits  of  the  maternal  portion.  Each  por- 
tion is  abundantly  supplied  with  blood  vessels,  so  tliat  a  ready  inter- 
change of  nutritive  fluid  may  take  place  between  mother  and  fetus. 

Plate  XIV.     Vessels  of  umbilical  cord. 

Fig.  1.  Fetal  calf  Avith  a  portion  of  the  wall  of  the  abdominal  cavity  of 
the  right  side  and  the  stomach  and  intestines  removed  to  illustrate 
the  nature  of  the  umbilical  or  navel  cord.  It  consists  of  a  tube  (1-1') 
into  which  pass  the  two  umbilical  arteries  (3)  carrying  blood  to  the 
placenta  in  the  uterus  or  womb  and  the  umbilical  vein  (4)  bringing 
the  blood  back  and  carrying  it  into  the  liver.  The  cord  also  con- 
tains the  urachus  (2')  which  carries  urine  from  the  bladder  (2) 
through  the  cord.  These  vessels  are  all  obliterated  at  birth.  5,  liver ; 
5',  lobe  of  same,  known  as  the  lobus  Spiegelii ;  5",  gall  bladder;  6, 
right  kidney;  6',  left  kidney;  6",  ureters,  or  the  tubes  conducting 
the  urine  from  the  kidneys  to  the  bladder ;  7,  rectum,  where  it  has 
ben  severed  in  removing  the  intestines ;  8,  uterus  of  the  fetus,  cut  off  at 
the  anterior  extremity;  9,  aorta;  10,  posterior  vena  cava.  (Fi'om 
Fiirstenberg-Leisering,  Anatomic  tmd  Physiologic  des  Rindes.) 
208 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  XII, 


Fetal  Calf  within  Its  Membranes. 


Diseases  cf  Cattle. 


Plate  XIII 


Pregnant  Uterus  with  Cotyledons. 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  XIV. 


Vessels  of  Umbilical  Cord. 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  XV. 


Diseases  of  CattlE. 


Plate  XVi 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  XVII 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  XVII 


Abnormal  Position  of  Calf  in  Utero. 
Surgical  Instruments  and  Sutures. 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  XIX. 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  XX. 


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Instruments  Used  in  Difficult  Labor, 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  XXI. 


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Instruments  Used  in  Difficult  Labor. 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  209 

Plate  XIV.  Vessels  of  umbilical  cord — Continued. 

Fig.  2.  Blood  vessels  passing  through  the  umbilical  cord  in  a  human  fetus. 
(From  Quain's  Anatomy,  vol.  2.)  L,  liver;  K,  kidney;  /,  intestines; 
U  C,  umbilical  cord ;  Ua,  umbilical  arteries.  The  posterior  aorta  com- 
ing from  the  heart  passes  backward  and  gives  rise  to  the  internal  iliac 
arteries,  and  of  these  the  umbilical  arteries  are  branches.  Uv,  um- 
bilical vein;  this  joins  the  portal  vein,  passes  onward  to  the  liver, 
breaks  up  into  smaller  vessels,  which  reunite  in  the  hepatic  vein-;  this 
empties  into  the  posterior  vena  cava,  which  carries  the  blood  back 
to  the  heart. 
Plate  XV.  Normal  position  of  calf  in  utero.  This  is  the  most  favorable  position 
of  the  calf  or  fetus  in  the  womb  at  birth,  and  the  position  in  which 
it  is  most  frequently  found.  This  is  known  as  the  normal  anterior 
position.  The  back  of  the  fetus  is  directly  toward  that  of  the  mother, 
the  forelegs  are  extended  back  toward  the  vulva  of  the  mother,  and 
the  head  rests  between  them.  The  birth  of  the  calf  in  this  position 
usually  takes  place  without  artificial  assistance. 
Plate  XVI.  Abnormal  positions  of  calf  in  utero.  (Figs.  1,  2,  3,  and  5  from 
Fleming's  Veterinary  Obstetrics;  fig.  4  after  St.  Cyr,  from  Hill's 
Bovine  Medicine  and  Surgery ;  fig.  6  from  D'Arboval,  Dictionaire  de 
M4decine  et  de  Chirurgie.) 

Fig.  1.  Anterior  presentation ;  one  fore  limb  completely  retained.  The 
retained  limb  must  be  reached  if  possible  and  brought  forward  joint  by 
joint  and  the  fetus  then  extracted. 

Fig.  2.  Anterior  presentation ;  fore  limbs  bent  at  knee.  The  limbs  must 
be  extended  before  delivery  can  be  accomplished. 

Fig.  3.  Anterior  presentation ;  fore  limb  crossed  over  neck.  The  leg  should 
be  grasped  a  little  above  the  fetlock,  raised,  drawn  to  its  proper  side, 
and  extended  in  genital  canal. 

Fig.  4.  Anterior  presentation  ;  downward  deviation  of  head.  The  head  must 
be  brought  into  position  seen  in  Plate  XV  before  delivery  can  take 
place. 

Fig.  5.  Anterior  presentation;  deviation  of  the  head  upward  and  back- 
ward. Retropulsion  is  the  first  indication,  and  will  often  bring  the 
head  into  its  normal  position. 

Fig.  6.  Anterior  presentation ;  head  presented  with  back  down.    The  fetus 
should  be  turned  by  pushing  back  the  fore  parts  and  bringing  up  the 
hind  so  as  to  make  a  posterior  presentation. 
Plate  XVII.  Abnormal  positions  of  calf  in  utero.     (Figs.  2  and  3  from  Flem- 
ing; figs.  4,  5,  and  6  from  D'Arboval.) 

Fig.  1.  Anterior  presentation,  with  hind  feet  engaged  in  pelvis.  A  very 
serious  malpresentation,  in  which  it  is  generally  impossible  to  save  the 
fetus  if  delivery  is  far  advanced.  The  indications  are  to  force  back  the 
hind  feet. 

Fig.  2.  Thigh  and  croup  presentation,  showing  the  fetus  corded.  The  cord 
has  a  ring  or  noose  at  one  end.  The  two  ends  of  the  cord  are  passed 
between  the  thighs,  brought  out  at  the  flanks,  and  the  plain  end  passed 
through  the  noose  at  the  top  of  the  back  and  brought  outside  the  vulva. 
The  fetus  must  be  pushed  back  and  an  attempt  made  to  bring  the 
limbs  properly  into  the  genital  passage. 

Fig.  3.  Croup  and  hock  presentation.  The  indications  in  this  abnormal 
presentation  are  the  same  as  described  for  Fig.  2, 

Fig.  4.  Posterior  presentation ;  the  fetus  on  its  back.     Turn  the  fetus  so  as 
to  make  a  normal  anterior  presentation. 
33071°— 16 14 


210  DISEASES  OF   CATTLE. 

Plate  XVII.  Abnormal  positions  of  calf  in  utero — Continued. 

Fig.  5.  Sterno-abdominal  presentation.  Tlie  fetus  is  on  its  side  with  limbs 
crossing  and  presenting.  The  limbs  least  eligible  for  extraction  should 
be  forced  back  into  the  uterus. 

Fig.  6.  Dorso-lunibar  presentation ;   the  back  presenting.     The  fetus  must 
be  turned  so  that  one  or  the  other  extremity  can  enter  the  passage. 
Plate  XVIII.  Abnormal  positions  of  the  calf  in  utero.     Surgical  instruments 
'    and  sutures. 

Fig.  1.  Twin  pregnancy,  showing  the  normal  anterior  and  posterior  presenta- 
tions.     (From  Fleming.) 

Fig.  2.  Abdominal  dropsy  of  the  fetus ;  normal  presentation ;  fore  limbs 
corded.  (After  Armatage.)  The  drawing  illustrates  the  method  of 
puncturing  the  abdomen  through  the  cliest  with  a  long  trocar  and 
cannula.  The  fluid  is  represented  escaping  from  the  cannula  after  the 
withdrawal  of  the  trocar. 

Fig.  3.  Tallich's  short,  bent,  crotchet  forceps.  The  forceps  have  bent  and 
toothed  jaws,  which  are  intended  to  take  hold  of  the  fetus  where 
neither  cords  nor  hooks  can  be  applied,  as  the  ear,  nose,  or  skin  of 
cheek. 

Fig.  4.  Clamp  for  ear,  skin,  etc. :  1-1,  blades  with  hooks  and  corresponding 
holes  ;  2,  ring  to  close  the  blades ;  3,  stem  with  female  screw  for  handle  ; 
4  handle,  which  may  be  either  straight  or  jointed  and  flexible. 
Plate  XIX.  Monstrosities.     This  plate  illustrates  various  malformations  and 
diseases  of  the  fetus  which  act  as  the  cause  of  difficult  parturition. 

Figs.  1,  2,  3.  Fetuses  with  portions  of  their  bodies  double.  Fig.  1  (from 
Fleming),  double  head,  neck,  and  fore  limbs.  Fig.  2  (from  Encyclop. 
der  Gesam.  Thierheilkunde,  1886),  double  head,  neck,  fore  limbs,  and 
body.    Fig.  3  (from  Fleming),  double  faced. 

Fig.  4.  Fetus  with  head  very  much  enlarged.  (From  Fleming.)  This 
affection  is  known  as  hydrocephalus,  or  dropsy  of  the  brain,  and  is  due 
to  a  more  or  less  considerable  quantity  of  fluid  in  the  cranial  cavity 
of  the  fetus. 

Fig.  5.  Skull  of  the  calf  represented  in  Fig.  4.     The  roof  of  the  skull  is 
absent.     (From  Fleming.) 
Plate  XX.  Instruments  used  in  difficult  labor. 

Fig.  1.  Long  embryotome  with  joint. 

Fig.  2.  Long  sharp  liook.  This  instrument  is  about  3  feet  in  length,  includ- 
ing the  handle.  Hooks  of  this  kind,  both  blunt  and  sharp,  are  applied 
directly  to  the  fetus  to  assist  in  delivery. 

Fig.  3.  Giinther's  long-handled  embryotome.  This  instrument  and  that  rep- 
resented in  Fig.  1  are  of  special  value  in  cutting  through  muscular 
tissue  and  in  separating  the  limbs  from  the  trunk  when  the  fetus  can 
not  be  removed  entire.  These  embryotomes  are  usually  30  inches  long, 
but  may  be  made  either  longer  or  .shorter. 

Fig.  4.  Jointed  cord-carrier,  used  in  difficult  parturition  to  carry  a  cord  into 
regions  which  can  not  be  reached  by  the  ai-m. 

Fig.  5.  Instrument  used  to  rotate  or  turn  the  fetus,  known  as  a  rotator. 

Fig.  6.  Dilator  of  the  neck  of  the  womb,  used  when  conception  can  not  take 
place  owing  to  a  contracted  condition  of  the  neck  of  the  womb. 

Fig.  7.  Repeller.  An  instrument  from  2  to  3  feet  long,  used  to  force  the 
fetus  forward  into  the  womb.  This  operation  is  generally  necessary 
when  the  presentation  is  abnormal  and  the  fetus  has  advanced  too  far 
into  the  narrow  inlet  to  the  uterus  to  be  moved. 


DISEASES    OF    THE    GENERATIVE    ORGANS.  211 

Plate  XX.  Instruments  used  in  difficult  labor — Continued. 

Fig.  8.  Cartwright's  bone  chisel.  Including  the  handle,  this  instruments  is 
about  32  inches  in  length  ;  the  chisel  portion  is  a  little  more  than  2 
inches  long  and  1  to  1*  broad.  Only  the  middle  portion  is  sharp,  the 
projecting  corners  are  blunt,  and  the  sides  rounded.  This  instrument 
is  used  for  slitting  up  the  skin  of  a  limb  and  as  a  bone  chisel  when  it  is 
necessary  to  mutilate  the  fetus  in  order  to  effect  delivery. 
Plate  XXI.     Instruments  used  in  difficult  labor. 

Fig.  1.  Embryotome,  an  instrument  used  when  it  is  necessary  to  reduce  the 
size  of  the  fetus  by  cutting  away  certain  parts  before  birth  can  be 
etfected.    This  instrument  may  be  long  or  short,  straight  or  curved. 

Fig.  2.  Also  an  embryotome.  The  blade  can  be  made  to  slide  out  of  or  into 
the  handle.  The  instrument  can  thus  be  introduced  into  or  withdrawn 
from  the  genital  passage  without  risk  of  injury  to  the  mother. 

Fig.  3.  Schaack's  traction  cord.  Tliis  is  merely  a  cord  with  a  running  noose 
at  one  end  and  a  piece  of  wood  at  the  other,  to  offer  a  better  hold  for 
the  hand. 

Figs.  4ffi  and  4&.  Reuff's  head  collar  for  securing  the  head  of  the  fetus. 

Fig.  5.  Curved  cord-carrier,  used  in  difficult  parturition  to  carry  a  cord  into 
regions  which  can  not  be  ref&ched  by  the  arm. 

Fig.  6.  Blunt  hook,  used  in  difficult  parturition. 

Fig.  7.  Short  hook  forceps,  used  in  difficult  parturition. 

Fig.  8.  Blunt  finger  hook. 


DISEASES  FOLLOWING  PARTURITION. 

By  James  Law.  F.  R.  C.  V.  S., 
Formerly  Professor  Veterinary  Science,  etc.,  in  Cornell  University. 

FLOODING  (BLEEDING  FROM  THE  WOMB). 

Though  not  so  common  in  the  cow  as  in  the  human  female,  flooding 
is  sufficiently  frequent  to  demand  attention.  It  may  depend  on  a  too 
rapid  calving  and  a  consequent  failure  of  the  womb  to  contract  when 
the  calf  has  been  removed.  The  pregnant  womb  is  extraordinarily 
rich  in  blood  vessels,  especially  in  large  and  tortuous  veins,  which 
become  compressed  and  almost  obliterated  under  contraction,  but 
remain  overfilled  and  often  bleed  into  the  cavity  of  the  womb  should 
no  contraction  take  place.  Cox  records  cases  in  which  the  labor 
pains  had  detached  and  expelled  the  fetal  membranes,  while  the 
calf,  owing  to  large  size  or  wrong  presentation,  was  detained  in  the 
womb,  and  the  continued  dilatation  of  the  womb  in  the  absence  of 
the  fetal  membranes  led  to  a  flow  of  blood  which  accumulated  in 
clots  around  the  calf.  Other  causes  are  laceration  of  the  cotyledons 
of  the  womb,  or  from  an  antecedent  inflammation  of  the  placenta, 
and  the  unnatural  adhesion  of  the  membranes  to  the  womb,  which 
bleeds  when  the  two  are  torn  apart.  Weakness  of  the  womb  from 
overdistention,  as  in  dropsy,  twins,  etc.,  is  not  without  its  influence. 
Finally,  eversion  of  the  womb  (casting  the  withers)  is  an  occasional 
cause  of  flooding.  The  trouble  is  only  too  evident  when  the  blood 
flows  from  the  external  passages  in  drops  or  in  a  fine  stream.  When 
it  is  retained  in  the  cavity  of  the  womb,  however,  it  may  remain 
unsuspected  until  it  has  rendered  the  animal  almost  bloodless.  The 
symptoms  in  such  case  are  paleness  of  the  eyes,  nose,  mouth,  and  of 
the  lips  of  the  vulva,  a  weak,  rapid  pulse,  violent  and  perhaps  loud 
beating  of  the  heart  (palpitations),  sunken,  staring  eyes,  coldness 
of  the  skin,  ears,  horns,  and  limbs,  perspiration,  weakness  in  stand- 
ing, staggering  gait,  and,  finally,  inability  to  rise,  and  death  in  con- 
vulsions. If  these  symptoms  are  seen,  the  oiled  hand  should  be  in- 
troduced into  the  womb,  which  will  be  found  open  and  flaccid  and 
containing  large  blood  clots. 

Treatment. — Treatment  consists  in  the  removal  of  the  fetal  mem- 
branes and  blood  clots  from  the  womb  (which  will  not  contract  while 
they  are  present),  the  dashing  of  cold  water  on  the  loins,  right  flank, 
and  vulva,  and  if  these  measures  fail,  the  injection  of  cold  water  into 
the  womb  through  a  rubber  tube  furnished  with  a  funnel.    In  obsti- 

212 


DISEASES   FOLLOWING    PABTTJEITION.  213 

nate  cases  a  good-sized  sponge  soaked  in  tincture  of  muriate  of  iron 
should  be  introduced  into  the  womb  and  firmly  squeezed,  so  as  to 
bring  the  iron  into  contact  with  the  bleeding  surface.  This  is  at  once 
an  astringent  and  a  coagulant  for  the  blood,  besides  stimulating  the 
womb  to  contraction.  In  the  absence  of  this  agent  astringents  (solu- 
tion of  copperas,  alum,  tannic  acid,  or  acetq,te  of  lead)  may  be 
thrown  into  the  womb,  and  one-half-dram  doses  of  acetate  of  lead 
may  be  given  by  the  mouth,  or  1  ounce  powdered  ergot  of  rye  may  be 
given  in  gruel.  When  nothing  else  is  at  hand,  an  injection  of  oil  of 
turpentine  will  sometimes  promptly  check  the  bleeding. 

EVERSION  OF  THE  WOMB  (CASTING  THE  WITHERS). 

Like  flooding,  this  is  the  result  of  failure  of  the  womb  to  contract 
after  calving.  If  that  organ  contracts  naturally,  the  afterbirth  is 
expelled,  the  internal  cavity  of  the  womb  is  nearly  closed,  and  the 
mouth  of  the  organ  becomes  so  narrow  that  the  hand  can  not  be 
forced  through,  much  less  the  whole  mass  of  the  matrix.  When, 
however,  it  fails  to  contract,  the  closed  end  of  one  of  the  horns  may 
fall  into  its  open  internal  cavity,  and  under  the  compression  of  the 
adjacent  intestines,  and  the  straining  and  contraction  of  the  abdomi- 
nal walls,  it  is  forced  farther  and  farther,  until  the  whole  organ  is 
turned  outside  in,  slides  back  through  the  vagina,  and  hangs  from 
the  vulva.  The  womb  can  be  instantly  distinguished  from  the  pro- 
truding vagina  or  bladder  by  the  presence,  over  its  whole  surface,  of 
50  to  100  mushroomlike  bodies  (cotyledons),  each  2  to  3  inches 
in  diameter,  and  attached  by  a  narrow  neck.  (Pis.  XII,  XIII.) 
When  fully  everted,  it  is  further  recognizable  by  a  large,  undivided 
body  hanging  from  the  vulva,  and  two  horns  or  divisions  which 
hang  down  toward  the  hocks.  In  the  imperfect  eversions  the  body 
of  the  womb  may  be  present  with  two  depressions  leading  into  the 
two  horns.  In  the  cases  of  some  standing  the  organ  has  become 
inflamed  and  gorged  with  blood  until  it  is  as  large  as  a  bushel 
basket,  its  surface  has  a  dark-red,  bloodlike  hue,  and  tears  and 
bleeds  on  the  slightest  touch.  Still  later  lacerations,  raw  sores,  and 
even  gangrene  are  shown  in  the  mass.  At  the  moment  of  protrusion 
the  general  health  is  not  altered,  but  soon  the  inflammation  and  fever 
with  the  violent  and  continued  straining  induce  exhaustion,  and  the 
cow  lies  down,  making  no  attempt  to  rise. 

Treatment. — Treatment  varies  somewhat,  according  to  the  degree 
of  the  eversion.  In  partial  eversion,  with  the  womb  protruding 
only  slightly  from  the  vulva  and  the  cow  standing,  let  an  assistant 
pinch  the  back  to  prevent  straining  while  the  operator  pushes  his 
closed  fist  into  the  center  of  the  mass  and  carries  it  back  through  the 
vagina,  assisting  in  returning  the  surrounding  parts  by  the  other 


214  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

hand.  In  more  complete  eversion,  but  with  the  womb  as  yet  of  its 
natural  bulk  and  consistency  and  the  cow  standing,  straining  being 
checked  by  pinching  the  back,  a  sheet  is  held  by  two  men  so  as  to 
sustain  the  everted  womb  and  raise  it  to  the  level  of  the  vulva.  It 
is  now  sponged  clean  with  cold  water,  the  cold  being  useful  in  driving 
out  the  blood  and  reducing  the  bulk,  and  finally  it  may  be  sponged 
over  with  laudanum  or  with  a  weak  solution  of  carbolic  acid  (1  dram 
to  1  quart  water). 

The  closed  fist  may  now^  be  planted  in  the  rounded  end  of  the 
largest  horn  and  pushed  on  so  as  to  turn  it  back  within  itself  and 
carry  it  on  through  the  vagina,  the  other  hand  being  used  meanwhile 
to  assist  in  the  inversion  and  in  pushing  the  different  masses  in  suc- 
cession within  the  lips  of  the  vulva.  In  case  of  failure,  resort  should 
be  had  at  once  to  a  plan  which  I  have  successfully  followed  for  many 
years.  Take  a  long  linen  or  cotton  bandage,  5  or  6  inches  wide,  and 
wind  it  around  the  protruding  womb  as  tightly  as  it  can  be  drawn, 
beginning  at  the  free  end  and  gradually  covering  the  entire  mass  up 
to  the  vulva.  By  this  means  the  greater  part  of  the  blood  Avill  be 
forced  out  of  the  organ  and  its  bulk  greatly  reduced,  so  that  its  reduc- 
tion is  much  facilitated.  An  additional  advantage  is  found  in  the 
protection  given  to  the  womb  by  its  investing  bandage  while  it  is 
being  pushed  forward  into  the  vagina  and  abdomen.  In  manipulat- 
ing the  exposed  womb  there  is  always  danger  of  laceration,  but  when 
the  organ  is  covered  with  a  sheet  it  is  next  to  impossible  to  tear  it. 
The  subsequent  manipulation  is  as  in  the  other  case,  by  pushing  the 
blind  end  forward  within  itself  with  the  closed  fist  and  carrying  this 
on  through  the  vagina  into  the  abdomen  with  the  constant  assistance 
of  the  other  hand.  Often  it  will  be  found  convenient  to  use  the  edge 
of  the  left  hand  to  push  the  outer  part  of  the  protruding  mass  inside 
the  lips  of  the  vulva,  while  the  right  hand  and  arm  are  carrying  the 
central  portions  forward  through  the  vagina.  An  intelligent  assist- 
ant, pushing  with  the  palms  of  both  hands  on  the  outer  portion  of 
the  mass,  will  also  afford  material  assistance.  As  the  womb  is  turned 
within  itself  the  wrapping  bandage  wdll  gradually  loosen,  but  once 
the  great  mass  has  entered  the  passages  it  is  easy  to  compel  the  rest 
to  follow,  and  the  compression  by  the  bandage  is  no  longer  so  im- 
portant. When  the  womb  is  fully  replaced  the  bandage  is  left  in  its 
interior  in  a  series  of  loose  folds,  and  can  be  easily  withdrawn.  It 
is  well  to  move  the  hand  from  side  to  side  to  insure  that  the  two 
horns  of  the  womb  are  fully  extended  and  on  about  the  same  level 
before  withdrawing  the  arm  and  applying  a  truss. 

When  the  womb  has  been  long  everted  and  is  gorged  with  blood, 
inflamed,  and  friable  there  is  often  the  additional  disadvantage  that 
the  animal  is  unable  or  unwilling  to  rise.  When  lying  down  the 
straining  can  not  be  controlled  so  effectually,  and,  even  in  the  absence 


DISEASES    FOLLOWING    PARTURITION.  215 

of  straining,  the  compression  of  the  belly  is  so  great  as  to  prove  a 
serious  obstacle  to  reduction.  The  straining  may  be  checked  by  2  or  3 
ounces  of  laudanum  or  2  ounces  of  chloral  hydrate,  or  by  inhalation 
of  chloroform  to  insensibility,  and  then  by  raising  the  hind  parts  on 
straw  bundles  the  gravitation  of  the  abdominal  organs  forward  may 
be  made  to  lessen  the  resistance.  If  not  successful  in  this  way,  the 
cow  may  be  further  turned  on  her  back,  and  if  return  is  still  impos- 
sible, the  hind  limbs  may  be  tied  together  and  drawn  up  to  a  beam 
overhead  by  the  aid  of  a  pulley.  In  this  position,  in  place  of  the 
pressure  backward  of  the  bowels  proving  a  hindrance,  their  gravi- 
tation forward  proves  a  most  material  help  to  reduction.  In  seek- 
ing to  return  the  womb  the  sponging  with  ice-cold  water,  raising 
on.  a  sheet,  and  wrapping  in  a  tight  bandage  should  be  resorted 
to.  Another  method  which  is  especially  commendable  in  these  in- 
flamed conditions  of  the  womb  is  to  bring  a  piece  of  linen  sheet,  30 
by  36  inches,  under  the  womb,  with  its  anterior  border  close  up  to 
the  vulva,  then  turn  the  posterior  border  upward  and  forward  over 
the  organ,  and  cross  the  two  ends  over  this  and  ov^r  each  other  above. 
The  ends  of  the  sheet  are  steadily  drawn,  so  as  to  tighten  its  hold  on 
the  womb,  which  is  thus  held  on  the  level  of  the  vulva  or  above,  and 
cold  water  is  constantly  poured  upon  the  mass.  The  reduction  is 
further  sought  by  compression  of  the  mass  with  the  palms  applied 
outside  the  sheet.  Fifteen  or  twenty  minutes  are  usually  sufficient  to 
cause  the  return  of  the  womb,  provided  straining  is  prevented  by 
pinching  the  back,  or  otherwise. 

In  old  and  aggravated  cases,  with  the  womb  torn,  bruised,  or  even 
gangrenous,  the  only  resort  is  to  amputate  the  entire  mass.  This  is 
done  by  tying  a  strong,  waxed  cord  around  the  protruding  mass  close 
to  the  vulva,  winding  the  cord  around  pieces  of  wood,  so  as  to  draw 
it  as  ^tightly  as  possible,  cutting  off  the  organ  below  this  ligature, 
tying  a  thread  on  any  artery  that  may  still  bleed,  and  returning  the 
stump  well  into  the  vagina. 

Retention  of  the  returned  womb  is  the  next  point,  and  is  most 
easily  accomplished  by  a  rope  truss.  Take  two  ropes,  each  about  18 
feet  long  and  an  inch  in  thickness.  Double  each  rope  at  its  middle, 
and  lay  the  one  above  the  other  at  the  bend,  so  as  to  form  an  ovoid  of 
about  8  inches  in  its  long  diameter.  Twist  each  end  of  the  one  rope 
twice  around  the  other,  so  that  this  ovoid  will  remain  when  they  are 
drawn  tight.  (Pis.  XXII  and  XXIII.)  Tie  a  strap  or  rope  around 
the  back  part  of  the  neck  and  a  surcingle  around  the  body.  Place 
the  rope  truss  on  the  animal  so  that  the  ovoid  ring  will  surround  the 
vulva,  the  two  ascending  ropes  on  the  right  and  left  of  the  tail  and 
the  two  descending  ones  down  inside  the  thighs  on  the  right  and  left 
of  the  udder.  These  descending  ropes  are  carried  forward  on  the 
sides  of  the  body  and  tied  to  the  surcingle  and  to  the  neck  collar. 


216  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

The  ascending  ropes  proceed  forAvard  on  the  middle  of  the  back, 
twisting  over  each  other,  and  are  tied  to  the  surcingle  and  collar. 
The  upper  and  lower  ropes  are  drawn  so  tightly  that  the  rope  ring 
is  made  to  press  firmly  all  around  the  vulva  Avithout  risk  of  displace- 
ment. This  should  be  worn  for  several  days,  until  the  womb  shall 
have  closed  and  all  risk  of  further  eA^ersion  is  at  an  end.  Variations 
of  this  device  are  found  in  the  use  of  a  narrow  triangle  of  iron  ap- 
plied around  the  vulva  and  fixed  by  a  similar  arrangement  of  ropes, 
surcingle,  and  collar  (PL  XXIII,  fig.  3),  a  common  crupper  simi- 
larly held  around  the  vulva  (PI.  XXII,  fig.  1),  stitches  through  the 
vulva,  and  wire  inserted  through  the  skin  on  the  two  hips  (PI. 
XXIII,  fig.  2),  so  that  they  will  cross  behind  the  vulva;  also  pes- 
saries of  various  kinds  should  be  inserted  into  the  vagina.  Xone  of 
these  devices,  however,  present  any  advantage  over  the  simple  and 
comparatively  painless  rope  truss  described  above.  Such  additional 
precautions  as  keeping  the  cow  in  a  stall  higher  behind  than  in  front, 
and  seeing  that  the  diet  is  slightly  laxative  and  nonstimulating  may 
be  named.  If  straining  is  persistent,  ounce  doses  of  laudanum  may 
be  used  twice  a  day,  and  the  same  may  be  injected  into  the  vagina. 
If  the  womb  has  been  cut  off,  injections  of  a  solution  of  a  tea- 
spoonful  of  carbolic  acid  in  a  quart  of  water  should  be  used  daily,  or 
more  frequently,  until  the  discharge  ceases. 

EVERSION  OF  THE  BLADDER. 

A  genuine  eversion  of  the  bladder  is  almost  unknown  in  the  cow, 
owing  to  the  extreme  narrowness  of  its  mouth.  The  protrusion  of 
the  bladder,  however,  through  a  laceration  sustained  in  calving,  in 
the  floor  of  the  vagina  and  its  subsequent  protrusion  through  the 
vulva,  is  sometimes  met  with.  In  this  case  the  protruding  bladder 
contains  urine;  this  can  never  be  the  case  in  a  real  eversion,  in 
which  the  inner  surface  of  the  bladder  and  the  openings  of  the 
ureters  are  both  exposed  outside  the  vulva.  The  presence  of  a  bag 
containing  water,  which  is  connected  with  the  floor  of  the  vagina, 
will  serve  to  identify  this  condition.  If  the  position  of  the  bladder 
in  the  vulva  renders  it  impracticable  to  pass  a  catheter  to  draw  off 
the  urine,  pierce  the  organ  with  the  nozzle  of  a  hypodermic  syringe, 
or  even  a  very  small  trocar  and  cannula,  and  draw  off  the  Avater, 
Avhen  it  Avill  be  found  an  easj'  matter  to  return  the  bladder  to  its 
place.  The  rent  in  the  vagina  can  be  stitched  up,  but  as  there  would 
be  risk  in  any  subsequent  calving  it  is  best  to  prepare  the  coav  for  the 
butcher. 

RUPTURE  OF  THE  BLADDER. 

This  has  been  knoAvn  to  occur  in  protracted  parturition  Avhen  the 
fetus  finally  passed  Avhile  the  bladder  Avas  full.     The  symptoms  are 


DISEASES    FOLLOWING    PAETUEITION.  217 

those  of  complete  suppression  of  urine  and  tenderness  of  the  abdo- 
men, with  a  steady  accumulation  of  liquid,  and  fluctuation  on  han- 
dling its  lower  part.  If  the  hand  is  introduced  into  the  vagina  it 
is  felt  to  be  hot  and  tender,  and  perhaps  slightly  swollen  along  its 
floor.  As  a  final  test,  if  the  lower,  fluctuating  part  of  the  abdomen 
is  punctured  with  a  hypodermic  needle,  a  straw-colored  liquid  of  a 
urinous  odor  flows  out.  The  condition  has  been  considered  as  past 
hope.  The  only  chance  for  recovery  would  be  in  opening  the  abdo- 
men, evacuating  the  liquid,  and  stitching  up  the  rent  in  the  bladder, 
but  at  such  a  season,  and  with  inflammation  already  started,  there 
would  be  little  to  hope  for. 

RUPTURE  OF  THE  WOMB. 

When  the  womb  has  been  rendered  friable  by  disease  rupture  may 
occur  in  the  course  of  the  labor,  but  much  more  frequently  it  occurs 
from  violence  sustained  in  attempting  assistance  in  difficult  parturi- 
tion. It  is  also  liable  to  occur  during  eversion  of  the  organ  through 
efforts  to  replace  it. 

If  it  happens  while  the  calf  is  still  in  the  womb,  it  will  usually 
bleed  freely  and  continuously  until  the  fetus  has  been  extracted,  so 
that  the  womb  can  contract  on  itself  and  expel  its  excess  of  blood. 
Another  danger  is  that  in  case  of  a  large  rent  the  calf  may  escape 
into  the  cavity  of  the  abdomen  and  parturition  become  impossible. 
Still  another  danger  is  that  of  the  introduction  of  septic  germs  and 
the  setting  up  of  a  fatal  inflammation  of  the  lining  membrane  of  the 
belly  (peritoneum).  Still  another  is  the  escape  of  the  small  intes- 
tine through  the  rent  and  on  through  the  vagina  and  vulva,  so  as  to 
protrude  externally  and  receive  perhaps  fatal  injuries.  In  case  of 
rupture  before  calving,  that  act  should  be  completed  as  rapidly  and 
carefully  as  possible,  the  fetal  membranes  removed,  and  the  contrac- 
tion of  the  womb  sought  by  dashing  cold  water  on  the  loins,  the  right 
flank,  or  the  vulva.  If  the  calf  has  escaped  into  the  abdomen  and  can 
not  be  brought  through  the  natural  channels,  it  may  be  permissible 
to  fix  the  animal  and  extract  it  through  the  side,  as  in  the  Caesarian 
section.  If  the  laceration  has  happened  during  eversion  of  the  womb 
it  is  usually  less  redoubtable,  because  the  womb  contracts  more 
readily  under  the  stimulus  of  the  cold  air  so  recently  applied.  In 
case  the  abdomen  has  been  laid  open  it  is  well  to  stitch  up  th(  rent, 
but  if  not,  it  should  be  left  to  nature,  and  will  often  heal  satisfac- 
torily, the  cow  even  breeding  successfully  in  after  years. 

Rupture  of  the  floor  of  the  vagina  has  been  already  referred  to  as 
allowing  the  protrusion  of  the  bladder.  Laceration  of  the  roof  of 
this  passage  is  also  met  with  as  the  result  of  deviations  of  the  hind 
limbs  and  feet  upward  when  the  calf  lies  on  its  back.  In  some  such 
cases  the  opening  passes  clear  into  the  rectum,  or  the  foot  may  even 


218  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

pass  out  through  the  anus,  so  that  that  opening  and  the  vulva  are 
laid  open  into  one. 

Simple,  superficial  lacerations  of  the  vaginal  walls  are  not  usually 
serious,  and  heal  readily  unless  septic  inflammation  sets  in,  in  which 
case  the  cow  is  liable  to  perish.  They  may  be  treated  with  soothing 
and  antiseptic  injections,  such  as  carbolic  acid,  1  dram;  water,  1 
quart. 

The  more  serious  injuries  depend  on  the  complications.  Eupture 
of  the  anterior  part  of  the  canal,  close  to  the  mouth  of  the  womb,  may 
lead  to  the  introduction  of  infecting  germs  into  the  cavity  of  the  ab- 
domen, or -protrusion  of  the  bowel  through  the  rent  and  externally, 
either  of  which  may  prove  fatal.  If  both  these  conditions  are  es- 
caped the  wound  may  heal  spontaneously.  Rupture  into  the  bladder 
may  lead  to  nothing  worse  than  a  constant  dribbling  of  the  urine 
from  the  vulva.  The  cow  should  be  fattened  if  she  survives.  Eup- 
ture into  the  rectum  will  entail  a  constant  escape  of  feces  through 
the  vulva,  and,  of  course,  the  same  condition  exists  when  the  anus 
as  well  has  been  torn  open.  I  have  successfully  sewed  up  an  opening 
of  this  kind  in  the  mare,  but  in  the  case  of  the  cow  it  is  probably 
better  to  prepare  her  for  the  butcher. 

CLOTS  OF  BLOOD  IN  THE  WALLS  OF  THE  VAGINA. 

During  calving  the  vagina  may  be  bruised  so  as  to  cause  escape  of 
blood  beneath  the  mucous  membrance  and  its  coagulation  into  large 
bulging  clots.  The  vulva  may  appear  swollen,  and  on  separating  its 
lips  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  vagina  is  seen  to  be  raised  into 
irregular  rounded  swellings  of  a  dark-blue  or  black  color,  and  which 
pit  on  pressure  of  the  finger.  If  the  accumulation  of  blood  is  not 
extensive  it  may  be  reabsorbed,  but  if  abundant  it  may  lead  to  irri- 
tation and  dangerous  inflammation,  and  should  be  incised  with  a 
lancet  and  the  clots  cleared  out.  The  wounds  may  then  be  sponged 
twice  a  day  with  a  lotion  made  with  1  dram  sulphate  of  zinc,  1  dram 
carbolic  acid,  and  1  quart  water. 

RETAINED  AFTERBIRTH. 

The  cow,  of  all  oui  domestic  animals,  is  especially  subject  to  this 
accident.  This  may  be  partly  accounted  for  by  the  firm  connections 
established  through  the  fifty  to  one  hundred  cotyledons  (PI.  XIII, 
fig.  2)  in  which  the  fetal  membranes  dovetail  with  the  follicles  of  the 
womb.  It  is  also  most  liable  to  occur  after  abortion,  in  which  prepa- 
ration has  not  been  made  by  fatty  degeneration  for  the  severence  of 
these  close  connections.  In  the  occurrence  of  inflamation,  causing 
the  formation  of  nev.'  tissue  between  the  membranes  and  the  womb, 
we  find  the  occasion  of  unnaturally  firm  adhesions  which  prevent  the 
spontaneous  detachment  of  the  membranes.    Again,  in  low  conditions 


DISEASES   FOLLOWIISTG    PARTURITION.  219 

of  health  and  an  imperfect  power  of  contraction  we  find  a  potent 
cause  of  retention,  the  general  debility  showing  particularly  in  the 
indisposition  of  the  womb  to  contract,  after  calving,  with  sufficient 
energy  to  expel  the  afterbirth.  Hence  we  find  the  condition  common 
with  insufficient  or  innutrious  feed,  and  in  years  or  localities  in 
which  the  fodder  has  suffered  from  weather.  Ergoted,  smutty,  or 
musty  fodder  (PL  V),  by  causing  abortion,  is  a  frequent  cause  of 
retention.  Old  cows  are  more  subject  than  young  ones,  probably 
because  of  diminishing  vigor.  A  temporary  retention  is  sometimes 
owing  to  a  too  rapid  closure  of  the  neck  of  the  womb  after  calving, 
causing  strangulation  and  imprisonment  of  the  membranes.  Con- 
ditions favoring  this  are  the  drinking  of  cold  (iced)  water,  the  eat- 
ing of  cold  feed  (frosted  roots),  and  (through  sympathy  between 
udder  and  womb)  a  too  prompt  sucking  by  the  calf  or  milking  by 
the  attendant. 

Symptoms. — The  symptoms  of  retention  of  the  afterbirth  are  usu- 
ally only  too  evident,  as  the  membranes  hang  from  the  vulva  and  rot 
away  gradually,  causing  the  most  offensive  odor  throughout  the 
building.  When  retained  within  the  womb  by  closure  of  its  mouth 
and  similarly  in  cases  in  which  the  protruded  part  has  rotted  off,  the 
decomposition  continues  and  the  fetid  products  escaping  by  the  vulva 
appear  in  offensively  smelling  pools  on  the  floor  and  mat  together  the 
hairs  near  the  root  of  the  tail.  The  septic  materials  retained  in  the 
womb  cause  inflammation  of  its  lining  membrane,  and  this,  together 
with  the  absorption  into  the  blood  of  the  products  of  putrefaction, 
leads  to  ill  health,  emaciation,  and  drying  up  of  the  milk. 

Treatment. — Treatment  varies  according  to  the  conditions.  TVTien 
the  cow  is  in  low  condition,  or  when  retention  is  connected  with 
drinking  iced  water  or  eating  frozen  feed,  hot  drinks  and  hot  mashes 
of  wheat  bran  or  other  aliment  may  be  sufficient.  If  along  with 
the  above  conditions,  the  bowels  are  somewhat  confined,  an  ounce 
of  ground  ginger,  or  half  an  ounce  of  black  pepper,  given  with 
a  quart  of  sweet  oil,  or  \\  pounds  of  Glauber's  salt  in  at  least  4 
quarts  of  warm  water,  will  often  prove  effectual.  A  bottle  or 
two  of  flaxseed  tea,  made  by  prolonged  boiling,  should  also  be 
given  at  frequent  intervals.  Other  stimulants,  like  rue,  savin,  laurel, 
and  carminatives  like  anise,  cumin,  and  coriander,  are  preferred  by 
some,  but  with  very  questionable  reason,  the  more  so  that  the  first 
three  are  not  without  danger.  Ergot  of  rye,  1  ounce,  or  its  extract, 
1  dram,  may  be  resorted  to  to  induce  contraction  of  the  womb.j  The 
mechanical  extraction  of  the  membranes  is,  however,  often  called 
for;  of  this  there  are  several  methods.  The  simplest  is  to  hang  a 
weight  of  1  or  2  pounds  to  the  hanging  portion,  and  allow  this,  by 
its  constant  dragging  and  by  its  jerking  effect  when  the  cow  moves, 
to  pull  the  membranes  from  their  attachments  and  to  stimulate  the 


220  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

womb  to  expulsive  contractions.  In  the  neglected  cases,  however, 
when  the  dependent  mass  is  already  badly  decomposed,  it  is  liable 
to  tear  across  under  the  added  weight,  leaving  a  portion  of  the 
offensive  material  imprisoned  in  the  womb.  Again,  this  uncontrolled 
dragging  upon  a  relaxed  womb  will  (in  exceptional  cases  only,  it  is 
true)  cause  it  to  become  everted  and  to  protrude  in  this  condition 
from  the  vulva. 

A  second  resort  is  to  seize  the  dependent  part  of  the  afterbirth 
between  two  sticks,  and  roll  it  up  on  them  until  they  lie  against  the 
vulva ;  then,  by  careful  traction,  accompanied  with  slight  jerking 
movements  from  side  to  side,  the  womb  is  stimulated  to  expulsive 
contractions  and  the  afterbirth  is  wound  up  more  and  more  on  the 
sticks  until  finally  its  last  connections  with  the  womb  are  severed  and 
the  remainder  is  expelled  suddenly  en  masse.  It  is  quite  evident  that 
neglected  cases  with  putrid  membranes  are  poor  subjects  for  this 
method,  as  the  afterbirth  is  liable  to  tear  across,  leaving  a  mass  in 
the  womb.  During  the  progress  of  the  work  any  indication  of  tear- 
ing is  the  signal  to  stop  and  proceed  with  greater  caution  or  alto- 
gether abandon  the  attempt  in  this  way. 

The  third  method  (that  with  the  skilled  hand)  is  the  most 
promptly  and  certainly  successful.  For  this  the  operator  had  better 
dress  as  for  a  parturition  case.  Again,  the  operation  should  be  under- 
taken within  twenty-four  hours  after  calving,  since  later  the  mouth 
of  the  womb  may  be  so  closed  that  it  becomes  difficult  to  introduce 
the  hand.  The  operator  should  smear  his  arms  with  carbolized  lard 
or  vaseline  to  protect  them  against  infection,  and  particularly  in 
delayed  cases  with  putrid  membranes.  An  assistant  holds  the  tail  to 
one  side,  the  operator  seizes  the  hanging  afterbirth  with  the  left 
hand,  while  he  introduces  the  other  along  the  right  side  of  the  vagina 
and  womb,  letting  the  membranes  slide  through  his  palm  until  he 
reaches  the  first  cotyledon  to  which  they  remain  adherent.  In  case 
no  such  connection  is  within  reach,  with  the  left  hand  gentle  traction 
is  made  on  the  membranes  until  the  deeper  parts  of  the  womb  are 
brought  within  reach  and  the  attachments  to  the  cotyledons  can  be 
reached.  Then  the  soft  projection  of  the  membrane,  which  is  attached 
to  the  firm  fungus-shaped  cotyledon  on  the  inner  surface  of  the  womb, 
is  seized  by  the  little  finger,  and  the  other  fingers  and  thumb  are 
closed  on  it  so  as  to  tear  it  out  from  its  connections.  To  explain  this, 
it  is  necessary  only  to  say  that  the  projection  from  the  membrane  is 
covered  by  soft,  conical  processes,  which  are  received  into  cavities 
of  a  corresponding  size  on  the  summit  of  the  firm,  mushroom-shaped 
cotyledon  growing  from  the  inner  surface  of  the  womb.  To  draw 
upon  the  former,  therefore,  is  to  extract  its  soft,  villous  processes 
from  within  the  follicles  or  cavities  of  the  other.     (PI.  XIII,  fig.  2.) 


DISEASES   FOLLOWING    PARTURITION.  221 

If  at  times  it  is  difficult  to  start  this  extraction  it  may  be  necessary 
to  get  the  finger  nail  inserted  between  the  two,  and  once  started  the 
finger  may  be  pushed  on,  lifting  all  the  villi,  in  turn,  out  of  their 
cavities.  This  process  of  separating  the  cotyledons  must  be  carefully 
conducted,  one  after  another,  until  the  last  has  been  detached  and  the 
afterbirth  comes  freely  out  of  the  passages.  I  have  never  found  any 
evil  result  from  the  removal  of  the  whole  mass  at  one  operation,  but 
Shaack  mentions  the  eversion  of  the  womb  as  the  possible  result  of 
the  necessary  traction,  and  in  cases  in  which  those  in  the  most  distant 
part  of  the  horn  of  the  womb  can  not  be  easily  reached,  he  advises 
to  attach  a  cord  to  the  membranes  inside  the  vulva,  letting  it  hang 
out  behind,  and  to  cut  off  the  membranes  below  the  cord.  Then,  after 
two  or  three  days'  delay,  he  extracts  the  remainder,  now  softened  and 
easily  detached.  If  carefully  conducted,  so  as  not  to  tear  the  cotyle- 
dons of  the  womb,  the  operation  is  eminently  successful;  the  cow 
suffers  little,  and  the  straining  roused  by  the  manipulations  soon  sub- 
sides. Keeping  in  a  quiet,  dark  place,  or  driving  a  short  distance  at 
a  walking  pace,  will  serve  to  quiet  these.  When  the  membranes 
have  been  withdrawn,  the  hand,  half  closed,  may  be  used  to  draw 
out  of  the  womb  the  offensive  liquid  that  has  collected.  If  the  case 
is  a  neglected  one,  and  the  discharge  is  very  offensive,  the  womb  must 
be  injected  as  for  leucorrhea. 

INFLAMMATION  OF  THE  VAGINA   (VAGINITIS). 

This  may  occur  independently  of  inflammation  of  the  womb,  and 
usually  as  the  result  of  bruises,  lacerations,  or  other  injuries  sustained 
during  calving.  It  will  be  shown  by  swelling  of  the  lips  of  the  vulva, 
which,  together  with  their  lining  membrane,  become  of  a  dark-red  or 
leaden  hue,  and  the  mucous  discharge  increases  and  becomes  whitish 
or  purulent,  and  it  may  be  fetid.  Slight  cases  recover  spontaneously, 
or  under  warm  fomentations  or  mild  astringent  injections  (a  tea- 
spoonful  of  carbolic  acid  in  a  quart  of  water) ,  but  severe  cases  may  go 
on  to  the  formation  of  large  sores  (ulcers) ,  or  considerable  portions 
of  the  mucous  membrane  may  die  and  slough  off.  Baumeister  re- 
cords two  cases  of  diphtheritic  vaginitis,  the  second  case  in  a  cow  four 
weeks  calved,  contracted  from  the  first  in  a  newly  calved  cow.  Both 
proved  fatal,  with  formation  of  false  membranes  as  far  as  the  interior 
of  the  womb.  In  all  severe  cases  the  antiseptic  injections  must  be 
applied  most  assiduously.  The  carbolic  acid  may  be  increased  to 
one-half  ounce  to  a  quart,  or  chlorin  water,  or  peroxid  of  hydrogen 
solution  may  be  injected  at  least  three  times  a  day.  Hyposulphite  of 
soda,  1  ounce  to  a  quart  of  water,  is  an  excellent  application,  and  the 
same  amount  may  be  given  by  the  mouth. 


222  DISEASES  OF   CATTLE. 

LEUCORRHEA   (MUCOPURULENT  DISCHARGE   FROM  THE 

PASSAGES). 

This  is  from  a  continued  or  chronic  inflammation  of  the  womb,  or 
the  vagina,  or  both.  It  usually  results  from  injuries  sustained  in 
calving  or  from  irritation  by  putrid  matters  in  connection  with  re- 
tained afterbirth,  or  from  the  use  of  some  object  in  the  vagina 
(pessary)  to  prevent  eversion  of  the  womb.  Exposure  to  cold  or 
other  cause  of  disturbance  of  the  health  may  affect  an  organ  so  sus- 
ceptible as  this  at  the  time  of  parturition  so  as  to  cause  inflammation. 

Symptoms. — The  main  symptom  is  the  glairy,  white  discharge 
flowing  constantly  or  intermittently  (when  the  cow  lies  down), 
soiling  the  tail  and  matting  its  hairs  and  those  of  the  vulva.  When 
the  lips  of  the  vulva  are  drawn  apart  the  mucous  membrane  is  seen 
to  be  red,  with  minute  elevations,  or  pale  and  smooth.  The  health 
may  not  suffer  at  first,  but  if  the  discharge  continues  and  is  putrid 
the  health  fails,  the  milk  shrinks,  and  flesh  is  lost.  If  the  womb  is 
involved  the  hand  introduced  into  the  vagina  may  detect  the  mouth 
of  the  womb  slightly  open  and  the  liquid  collected  within  its  cavity. 
Examination  with  the  oiled  hand  in  the  rectum  may  detect  the  out- 
line of  the  womb  beneath,  somewhat  enlarged,  and  fluctuating  under 
the  touch  from  contained  fluid.  In  some  cases  heat  is  more  frequent 
or  intense  than  natural,  but  the  animal  rarely  conceives  when  served, 
and,  if  she  does,  is  liable  to  abort. 

TreatTTient. — Treatment  with  the  injections  advised  for  vaginitis  is 
successful  in  mild  or  recent  cases.  In  obstinate  ones  stronger  solu- 
tions may  be  used  after  the  womb  has  been  washed  out  by  a  stream 
of  tepid  water  until  it  comes  clear.  A  rubber  tube  is  inserted  into 
the  womb,  a  funnel  placed  in  its  raised  end,  and  the  water,  and  after- 
wards the  solution,  poured  slowly  through  it.  If  the  neck  of  the 
womb  is  so  close  that  the  liquid  can  not  escape,  a  second  tube  may 
be  inserted  to  drain  it  off.  As  injections  may  be  used  chlorid  of 
zinc,  one-half  dram  to  the  quart  of  water,  or  sulphate  of  iron,  1  dram 
to  the  quart.  Three  drams  of  sulphate  of  iron  and  one-half  ounce 
groimd  ginger  may  also  be  given  in  the  feed  daily. 

INFLAMMATION   OF  THE   WOMB    (METRITIS,    INFLAMMATION   OF 
WOMB  AND  ABDOMEN,   OR  METROPERITONITIS). 

Inflammation  of  the  womb  may  be  slight  or  violent,  simple  or  asso- 
ciated with  putrefaction  of  its  liquid  contents  and  general  poisoning, 
or  it  may  extend  so  that  the  inflammation  affects  the  lining  membrane 
of  the  whole  abdominal  cavity.  In  the  last  two  cases  the  malady  is  a 
very  grave  one. 

Causes. — The  causes  are  largely  the  same  as  those  causing  inflam- 
mation of  the  vagina.  Greater  importance  must,  however,  be  at- 
tached to  exposure  to  cold  and  wet  and  to  septic  infection. 


DISEASES   FOLLOWING    PARTURITION.  223 

Symptoms. — The  symptoms  appear  two  or  three  days  after  calving, 
when  the  cow  may  be  seen  to  shiver,  or  the  hair  stands  erect,  espe- 
cially along  the  spine,  and  the  horns,  ears,  and  limbs  are  cold.  The 
temperature  in  the  rectum  is  elevated  by  one  or  two  degrees,  the  pulse 
is  small,  hard,  and  rapid  (70  to  100),  appetite  is  lost,  rumination 
ceases,  and  the  milk  shrinks  in  quantity  or  is  entirely  arrested,  and 
the  breathing  is  hurried.  The  hind  limbs  may  shift  uneasily,  the  tail 
be  twisted,  the  head  and  eyes  turn  to  the  right  flank,  and  the  teeth 
are  ground.  With  the  flush  of  heat  to  the  horns  and  other  extremi- 
ties, there  is  redness  of  the  eyes,  nose,  and  mouth,  and  usually  a  dark 
redness  about  the  vulva.  Pressure  on  the  right  flank  gives  manifest 
pain,  causing  moaning  or  grunting,  and  the  hind  limbs  are  moved 
stiffly,  extremely  so  if  the  general  lining  of  the  abdomen  is  involved. 
In  severe  cases  the  cow  lies  down  and  can  not  be  made  to  rise.  There 
is  usually  marked  thirst,  the  bowels  are  costive,  and  dung  is  passed 
with  pain  and  effort.  The  hand  inserted  into  the  vagina  perceives 
the  increased  heat,  and  when  the  neck  of  the  womb  is  touched  the 
cow  winces.  Examination  through  the  rectum  detects  enlargement 
and  tenderness  of  the  womb.  The  discharge  from  the  vulva  is  at 
first  watery,  but  becomes  thick,  yellow,  and  finally  red  or  brown,  with 
a  heavy  or  fetid  odor.  Some  cases  recover  speedily  and  may  be  al- 
most well  in  two  days ;  a  large  proportion  perish  within  two  days  of 
the  attack,  and  some  merge  into  the  chronic  form,  terminating  in 
leucorrhea.  In  the  worst  cases  there  is  local  septic  infection  and 
ulceration,  or  even  gangrene  of  the  parts,  or  there  is  general  septi- 
cemia, or  the  inflammation  involving  the  A^eins  of  the  womb  causes 
coagulation  of  the  blood  contained  in  them,  and  the  washing  out  of 
the  clots  to  the  right  heart  and  lung  leads  to  the  blocking  of  the  ves- 
sels in  the  latter  and  complicating  pneumonia.  Inflammation  of  the 
womb  and  passages  after  calving  are  always  liable  to  these  complica- 
tions, and  consequently  to  a  fatal  issue.  Franck  records  three  in- 
stances of  rapidly  fatal  metritis  in  cows,  all  of  which  had  been 
poisoned  from  an  adjacent  cow  with  retained  and  putrid  afterbirth. 
Others  have  had  similar  cases. 

Treatment. — Treatment  in  the  slight  cases  of  simple  inflammation 
does  not  differ  much  from  that  adopted  for  vaginitis,  only  care  must 
be  taken  that  the  astringent  and  antiseptic  injections  are  made  to 
penetrate  into  the  womb.  After  having  washed  out  the  womb  a  solu- 
tion of  chlorid  of  lime  or  permanganate  of  potassium  (one-half  ounce 
to  1  quart  of  water) ,  with  an  ounce  each  of  glycerin  and  laudanum  to 
render  it  more  soothing,  will  often  answer  every  purpose.  It  is 
usually  desirable  to  open  the  bowels  with  1^  pounds  of  Glauber's  salt 
and  1  ounce  of  ginger  in  4  quarts  of  warm  water,  and  to  apply 
fomentation  of  warm  water  or  even  mustard  poultices  or  turpentine 
to  the  right  flank. 


224  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

In  the  violent  attacks  with  high  temperature  and  much  prostration, 
besides  the  salts  agents  must  be  given  to  lower  the  temperature  and 
counteract  septic  poisoning.  Salicylate  of  soda  one-half  ounce,  or 
quinia  2  drams  every  four  hours  will  help  in  both  ways,  or  ounce 
doses  of  hyposulphite  of  soda  or  dram  doses  of  carbolic  acid  may 
be  given  as  often  until  six  doses  haA^e  been  taken.  Tincture  of 
aconite  has  often  been  used  in  20-drop  doses  every  six  hours.  If 
the  temperature  rises  to  106°  or  107°  F.,  it  must  be  met  by  the 
direct  application  of  cold  or  iced  water  to  the  surface.  The  animal 
may  be  covered  with  wet  sheets  and  cold  water  poured  on  them 
frequently  until  the  temperature  in  the  rectum  is  lowered  to  102°  F. 
In  summer  the  cow  may  be  allowed  to  dry  spontaneously,  while 
in  winter  it  should  be  rubbed  dry  and  blanketed.  Even  in  the 
absence  of  high  temperature  much  good  may  be  obtained  from  the 
soothing  influence  of  a  wet  sheet  covering  the  loins  and  flanks  and 
well  covered  at  all  points  by  a  dry  one.  This  may  be  followed  next 
day  by  a  free  application  of  mustard  and  oil  of  turpentine.  When 
the  animal  shows  extreme  prostration,  alcohol  (1  pint)  or  carbonate 
of  ammonia  (1  ounce)  may  be  given  to  tide  over  the  danger,  but 
such  cases  usually  perish. 

In  this  disease,  even  more  than  in  difficult  and  protracted  parturi- 
tion or  retained  placenta,  the  attendants  must  carefully  guard  against 
the  infection  of  their  hands  and  arms  from  the  diseased  parts.  The 
hand  and  arm  before  entering  the  passages  should  always  be  well 
smeared  with  lard  impregnated  with  carbolic  acid. 

MILK  FEVER  (PARTURITION  FEVER,  PARTURIENT  APOPLEXY,  OR 
PARTURIENT  COLLAPSE). 

This  disease  is  not  only  peculiar  to  the  cow,  but  it  may  be  said  to 
be  virtually  confined  to  the  improved  and  plethoric  cow.  It  further 
occurs  only  at  or  near  the  time  of  calving.  Indeed,  these  two  factors, 
calving  and  plethora,  may  be  set  apart  as  preeminently  the  causes  of 
this  disease.  It  is  the  disease  of  cows  that  have  been  improved  in 
the  direction  of  early  maturity,  power  of  rapid  fattening,  or  a  heavy 
yield  of  milk,  and  hence  it  is  characteristic  of  those  having  great 
appetites  and  extraordinary  power  of  digestion.  The  heavy  milking 
breeds  are  especially  its  victims,  as  in  them  the  demand  for  the  daily 
jdeld  of  50  to  100  pounds  of  milk  means  even  more  than  a  daily  in- 
crease of  2  to  3  pounds  of  body  weight,  mainly  fat.  The  victims  are 
not  always  fat  when  attacked,  but  they  are  cows  having  enormous 
powers  of  digestion,  and  which  have  been  fed  heavily  at  the  time. 
Hence  the  stall-fed,  city-dairy  cow,  and  the  farm  cow  on  a  rich  clover 
pasture  in  June  or  July  are  especially  subject.  The  condition  of  the 
blood  globules  in  the  suffering  coav  attests  the  extreme  riclmess  and 
density  of  (he  blood,  yet  this  peculiarity  appears  to  have  entirely 


DISEASES    FOLLOWING    PAETUEITION.  225 

escaped  the  notice  of  veterinary  writers.  I  have  never  examined  the 
blood  of  a  victim  of  this  disease  without  finding  the  red-blood 
globules  reduced  to  little  more  than  one-half  their  usual  size.  Now, 
these  globules  expand  or  contract  according  to  the  density  of  the 
liquid  in  which  they  float.  If  we  dilute  the  blood  with  water  they 
will  expand  until  they  burst,  whereas  if  solids,  such  as  salt  or  albu- 
min, are  added  they  shrink  to  a  large  extent.  Their  small  size,  there- 
fore, in  parturition  fever  indicates  the  extreme  richness  of  the  blood, 
or,  in  other  words,  plethora. 

Confinement  in  the  stall  is  an  accessory  cause,  partly  because  sta- 
bled cattle  are  highly  fed,  partly  because  the  air  is  hotter  and  fouler, 
and  partly  because  there  is  no  expenditure  by  exercise  of  the  rich 
products  of  digestion. 

High  temperature  is  conducive  to  the  malady,  though  the  extreme 
colds  of  winter  are  no  protection  against  it.  Heat,  however,  con- 
duces to  fever,  and  fever  means  lessened  secretion,  which  means  a 
plethoric  state  of  the  circulation.  The  heats  of  summer  are,  how- 
ever, often  only  a  coincidence  of  the  real  cause,  the  mature  rich 
pastures,  and  especially  the  clover  ones,  being  the  greater. 

Electrical  disturbances  have  an  influence  of  a  similar  kind,  dis- 
turbing the  functions  of  the  body  and  favoring  sudden  variations  in 
the  circulation.  A  succession  of  cases  of  the  malady  often  accom- 
pany or  precede  a  change  of  weather  from  dry  to  wet,  from  a  low 
to  a  high  barometric  pressure. 

Costiveness,  which  is  the  usual  concomitant  of  fever,  may  in  a  case 
■of  this  kind  become  an  accessory  cause,  the  retention  in  the  blood  of 
what  should  have  passed  off  by  the  bowels  tending  to  increase  the 
fullness  of  the  blood  vessels  and  the  density  of  the  blood. 

Mature  age  is  a  very  strong  accessory  cause.  The  disease  never 
occurs  with  the  first  parturition,  and  rarely  with  the  second.  It 
appears  with  the  third,  fourth,  fifth,  or  sixth — after  the  growth  of 
the  cow  has  ceased  and  when  all  her  powers  are  devoted  to  the  pro- 
duction of  milk. 

Calving  is  an  essential  condition,  as  the  disturbance  of  the  circula- 
tion consequent  on  the  contraction  of  the  womb  and  the  expulsion 
into  the  general  circulation  of  the  enormous  mass  of  blood  hitherto 
circulating  in  the  walls  of  the  womb  fills  to  repletion  the  vessels  of 
the  rest  of  the  body  and  very  greatly  intensifies  the  already  existing 
plethora.  If  this  is  not  speedily  counterbalanced  by  a  free  secretion 
from  the  udder,  kidneys,  bowels,  and  other  excretory  organs,  the 
most  dire  results  may  ensue.  Calving  may  thus  be  held  to  be  an 
exciting  cause,  and  yet  the  labor  and  fatigue  of  the  act  are  not 
active  factors.  It  is  after  the  easy  calving,  when  there  has  been 
little  expenditure  of  muscular  or  nervous  energy  and  no  loss  of 
blood,  that  the  malady  is  seen.  Difficult  parturitions  may  be  fol- 
33071°— 16 15 


226  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

lowed  by  metritis,  but  they  are  rarely  connected  with  parturition 
fever. 

All  these  factors  coincide  in  intensifying  the  one  condition  of 
plethora  and  point  to  that  as  a  most  essential  cause  of  the  affection. 
It  is  needless  to  enter  here  into  the  much-debated  question  as  to  the 
mode  in  which  the  plethora  brings  about  the  characteristic  symptoms 
and  results.  As  the  results  show  disorder  or  suspension  of  the 
nervous  functions  mainly,  it  may  suffice  to  say  that  this  condition  of 
the  blood  and  blood  vessels 'is  incompatible  with  the  normal  func- 
tional activity  of  the  nerve  centers.  How  much  is  due  to  congestion 
of  the  brain  and  how  much  to  bloodlessness  may  well  be  debated, 
yet  in  a  closed  box  like  the  cranium,  in  which  the  absolute  contents 
can  not  be  appreciably  increased  or  diminished,  it  is  evident  that, 
apart  from  dropsical  effusion  or  inflammatory  exudation,  there  can 
be  only  a  given  amount  of  blood;  therefore,  if  one  portion  of  the 
brain  is  congested,  another  must  be  proportionately  bloodless;  and 
as  congestion  of  the  eyes  and  head  generally  and  great  heat  of  the 
head  are  most  prominent  features  of  the  disease,  congestion  of  the 
brain  must  be  accepted.  This,  of  course,  implies  a  lack  of  blood  in 
certain  other  parts  or  blood  vessels. 

The  latest  developments  of  treatment  indicate  very  clearly  that  the 
main  cause  is  the  production  of  poisonous,  metabolic  products 
(leucomains  and  toxins)  by  secreting  cells  of  the  follicles  of  the 
udder,  acting  on  the  susceptible  nerve  centers  of  the  plethoric, 
calving  cow\  Less  fatal  examples  of  udder  poisons  are  found  in  the 
first  milk  (colostrum),  which  is  distinctly  irritant  and  purgative, 
and  in  the  toxic  qualities  of  the  first  milk  drawn  from  an  animal 
which  has  been  subjected  to  violent  overexertion  or  excitement. 
Still  more  conclusive  as  to  the  production  of  such  poisons  is  the 
fact  that  the  full  distention  of  the  milk  ducts  and  follicles,  and  the 
consequent  driving  of  the  blood  out  of  the  udder  and  arrest  of 
the  formation  of  depraved  products,  determines  a  speedy  and  com- 
plete recovery  from  the  disease.  This  does  not  exclude  the  other 
causes  above  named,  nor  the  influence  of  a  reflex  nervous  derange- 
ment proceeding  from  the  udder  to  the  brain. 

SymptoTris. — It  may  be  said  that  there  are  two  extreme  types  of 
this  disease,  with  intervening  grades.  In  both  forms  there  is  the 
characteristic  plethora  and  more  or  less  sudden  loss  of  voluntary 
movement  and  sensation,  indicating  a  sudden  collapse  of  nervous 
powder ;  in  one,  however,  there  is  such  prominent  evidence  of  conges- 
tion of  head  and  brain  that  it  may  be  called  the  congestive  form 
par  excellence,  without  thereby  intimating  that  the  torpid  form  is 
independent  of  congestion. 

In  the  congestive  form  there  is  sudden  dullness,  languor,  hanging 
back  in  the  stall,  or  drooping  the  head,  uneasy  movements  of  the  hind 


DISEASES    FOLLOWING    PARTURITION.  227 

limbs  or  tail ;  if  the  cow  is  moved,  she  steps  unsteadily,  or  even  stag- 
gers ;  she  no  longer  notices  her  calf  or  her  feed ;  the  eyes  appear  red 
and  their  pupils  dilated;  the  weakness  increases  and  the  cow  lies 
down  or  falls  and  after  that  is  unable  to  rise.  At  this  time  the 
l^ulse  is  usually  full,  bounding,  and  the  temperature  raised,  though 
not  invariably  so,  the  head,  horns,  and  ears  being  especially  hot  and 
the  veins  of  the  head  full,  while  the  visible  mucous  membranes  of 
nose  and  eyes  are  deeply  congested. 

The  cow  may  lie  on  her  breastbone  with  her  feet  beneath  the  body 
and  her  head  turned  sleepily  round,  with  the  nose  resting  on  the  right 
flank;  or,  if  worse,  she  may  be  stretched  full  on  her  side,  with  even 
the  head  extended,  though  at  times  it  is  suddenly  raised  and  again 
dashed  back  on  the  ground.  At  such  times  the  legs,  fore  and  hind, 
struggle  convulsively,  e\'idently  through  unconscious  nervous  spasm. 
By  this  time  the  unconsciousness  is  usually  complete;  the  eyes  are 
glazed,  their  pupils  widely  dilated,  and  their  lids  are  not  moved  when 
the  ball  of  the  eye  is  touched  with  the  finger.  Pricking  the  skin  with 
a  pin  also  fails  to  bring  any  wincing  or  other  response.  The  pulse, 
at  first  from  50  to  70  a  minute,  becomes  weaker  and  more  accelerated 
as  the  disease  advances.  The  breathing  is  quickened,  becoming 
more  and  more  so  with  the  violence  of  the  symptoms,  and  at  first 
associated  with  moaning  (in  exceptional  cases,  bellowing),  it  may, 
before  death,  become  slow,  deep,  sighing,  or  rattling  (stertorous). 
The  temperature,  at  first  usually  raised,  tends  to  become  lower  as 
stupor  and  utter  insensibility  and  coma  supervene.  The  bowels, 
which  may  have  moved  at  the  onset  of  the  attack,  become  torpid  or 
completely  paralyzed,  and,  unless  in  case  of  improvement,  they  are 
not  likely  to  operate  again.  Yet  this  is  the  result  of  paralysis  and 
not  of  induration  of  the  feces,  as  often  shown  by  the  semiliquid, 
pultaceous  condition  of  the  contents  after  death.  The  bladder,  too, 
is  paralyzed  and  fails  to  expel  its  contents.  A  free  action  of  either 
bladder  or  bowels,  or  of  both,  is  always  a  favorable  symptom.  The 
urine  contains  sugar,  in  quantity  proportionate  to  the  severity  of 
the  attack. 

In  nearly  all  cases  the  torpor  of  the  digestive  organs  results  in  gas- 
tric disorder;  the  j)aunch  becomes  the  seat  of  fermentation,  produc- 
ing gas,  which  causes  it  to  bloat  like  a  drum.  There  are  frequent 
eructations  of  gas  and  liquid  and  solid  feed,  which,  reaching  the  par- 
alyzed throat,  pass  in  part  into  the  windpipe  and  cause  inflammations 
of  the  air  passages  and  lungs. 

In  the  torpid  form  of  the  disease  there  is  much  less  indication  of 
fever  or  violence.  There  may  be  no  special  heat  about  the  horns, 
ears,  or  forehead,  nor  any  marked  redness  or  congestion  of  the  eyes 
or  nose,  nor  engorgement  of  the  veins  of  the  head.  The  attack 
comes  on  more  slowly,  with  apparent  weakness  of  the  hind  limbs, 


228  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE, 

dullness,  drowsiness,  suspension  of  rumination  and  appetite,  and  a 
general  indifference  to  surrounding  objects.  Soon  the  cow  lies  down, 
or  falls  and  is  unable  to  rise,  but  for  one  or  two  days  she  may  rest  on 
the  breastbone  and  hold  the  head  in  the  flank  without  showing  any 
disorderly  movements.  Meanwhile  there  is  not  only  loss  of  muscular 
power  and  inability  to  stand,  but  also  considerable  dullness  of  sensa- 
tion, pricking  the  skin  producing  no  quick  response,  and  even  touch- 
ing the  edge  of  the  eyelids  causing  no  very  prompt  winking.  Unless 
she  gets  relief,  however,  the  case  develops  all  the  advanced  symptoms 
of  the  more  violent  form,  and  the  animal  perishes. 

In  advanced  and  fatal  cases  of  either  form  the  insensibility  becomes 
complete;  no  irritation  of  skin  or  eye  meets  any  response;  the  eye 
becomes  more  dull  and  glassy ;  the  head  rests  on  the  ground  or  other 
object ;  unless  prevented  the  cow  lies  stretched  fully  on  her  side ;  the 
pulse  is  small,  rapid,  and  finally  imperceptible ;  the  breathing  is  slow, 
deep,  stertorous,- and  the  expirations  accompanied  with  puffing  is  slow, 
the  cheeks,  and  death  comes  quietly  or  with  accompanying  struggles. 

Prevention. — For  such  fatal  disease  prevention  is  of  far  more  con- 
sequence than  treatment.  Among  the  most  efficient  preventives 
may  be  named  a  spare  diet  (amounting  to  actual  starvation  in  very 
plethoric,  heavy-milking  cows)  for  a  week  before  calving  and  at  least 
four  days  after.  A  free  access  to  salt  and  water  is  most  important, 
as  the  salt  favors  drinking  and  the  water  serves  to  dilute  the  rich 
and  dense  blood.  Iced  water,  however,  is  undesirable,  as  a  chill  may 
favor  the  onset  of  fever.  A  dose  of  Epsom  salt  (1  to  2  pounds) 
should  be  given  12  to  24  hours  before  calving  is  due,  so  that  it  may 
operate  at  or  just  before  that  act.  In  case  calving  has  occurred  unex- 
pectedly in  the  heavy  milker,  no  time  should  be  lost  in  giving  the 
purgative  thereafter.  A  most  important  precaution  in  the  fleshy, 
plethoric  cow,  or  in  one  that  has  been  attacked  at  a  previous  calving, 
is  to  avoid  drawing  any  milk  from  the  bag  for  12  or  24  hours  after 
calving.  Breeders  on  the  island  of  Jersey  have  found  that  this 
alone  has  almost  abolished  the  mortality  from  milk  fever.  If  Epsom 
salt  is  not  at  hand,  saltpeter  (1  ounce)  should  be  used  for  several 
days.  Daily  exercise  is  also  of  importance,  and,  excepting  in  mid- 
summer, when  the  heat  of  the  sun  may  be  injurious,  the  value  of 
open  air  is  unquestionable.  Even  in  summer  an  open  shed  or  shady 
grove  is  incomparably  better  than  a  close,  stuffy  stall.  A  rich  pas- 
ture (clover  especially),  in  May,  June,  or  July,  when  at  its  best,  is 
to  be  carefully  avoided.  It  is  better  to  keep  the  cow  indoors  on  dry 
straw  with  plenty  of  salt  and  water  than  to  have  access  to  such 
pastures. 

Treatment. — Treatment  of  milk  fever  has  been  completely  revolu- 
tionized, with  the  result  that  a  former  mortality  of  50  to  70  per  cent 
has  been  practically  abolished.     Formerly  the  most  vigorous  treat- 


DISEASES    FOLLOWING    PARTURITION.  229 

ment  was  practiced  by  bleeding,  purging,  the  increase  of  peristalsis 
by  eserin  or  pilocarpin,  enemas,  cold  in  the  head,  coiinterirritants, 
aconite,  tartar  emetic,  sponging,  wet-sheet  packing,  etc.  The  gross 
mortality,  however,  was  not  materially  reduced,  and  nearly  all  that 
were  attacked  within  the  first  two  days  after  calving  perished. 

The  first  step  in  the  modern  treatment  was  made  in  1897,  when 
J.  Schmidt  published  his  successful  treatment  by  the  injection  of  the 
teats  and  milk  ducts  with  a  solution  of  iodid  of  potassium  (1^  drams 
to  1  quart  of  water).  This  reduced  the  mortality  to  17  per  cent. 
Others  followed  this  lead  by  the  injection  of  other  antiseptics  (lysol, 
creolin,  creosol,  chinosol,  common  salt,  etherized  air,  oxygen). 
These  succeeded  as  well  as  the  iodid  solution.  With  the  injection 
of  gases,  however,  a  fuller  distention  of  the  udder  was  usually 
secured,  and  virtually  every  case  recovered.  This  suggested  the  full 
distention  of  the  udder  with  common  atmospheric  air  filtered  and 
sterilized,  and  this  with  the  most  perfect  success.  With  sterile  air 
Schmidt-Kolding  claimed  96.7  per  cent  recoveries  in  914  cases. 

In  America  the  full  distention  of  the  udder,  whether  with  oxygen 
or  filtered  air,  has  proved  invariably  successful  in  all  kinds  of  cases, 
including  the  violent  ones  that  set  in  within  a  few  hours  after  calving. 
In  1  or  2  hours  after  the  injection  the  cow  has  got  up,  had  free 
passages  from  the  bowels  and  bladder,  bright  expression  of  counte- 
nance, and  some  return  of  appetite.  In  my  cases  wdiich  had  made  no 
response  for  8  hours  to  the  iodid  injection,  the  injection  of  the 
udder  to  full  repletion  with  the  gas  (oxygen  or  air)  has  had  im- 
mediately beneficial  results.  A  similar  full  distention  of  the  bag  with 
a  common-salt  solution  (0.5  to  100),  or  even  with  well-boiled  water, 
is  equally  effective,  but  in  these  cases  the  weight  of  the  liquid  causes 
dragging  upon  the  udder  and  a  measure  of  discomfort  which  is 
escaped  under  the  treatment  with  gas. 

The  value  of  each  method  depends  on  the  fullness  of  dis- 
tention of  the  udder  and  the  arrest  in  larger  part  of  the  circulation 
and  chemical  changes  in  its  tissues.  This  distention  acts  like  magic, 
and  seems  hardly  to  admit  of  failure  in  securing  a  successful  out- 
come. 

It  can  not,  however,  be  recommended  as  absolutely  devoid  of 
dangers  and  serious  complications.  To  get  the  best  results  it  should 
be  applied  only  by  one  who  has  been  trained  in  the  careful  antiseptic 
methods  of  the  bacteriological  laboratory.  Some  readers  will  recall 
the  case  of  the  injection  of  the  udders  of  show  cows  at  Toronto  to 
impose  upon  the  judges.  The  cows  treated  in  this  way  had  the 
udders  infected  and  ruined,  and  several  lost  their  lives.  There  is  no 
better  culture  medium  for  septic  and  other  germs  than  the  first 
milk  (colostrum)  charged  with  albumin  and  retained  in  the  warm 
udder.     Already  in  the  hands  of  veterinarians  even  the  Schmidt 


230  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

treatment  has  produced  a  small  proj)ortion  of  cases  of  infective 
mammitis.  How  many  more  such  cases  will  develop  if  this  treat- 
ment becomes  a  popular  domestic  resort,  applied  by  the  dairyman 
himself  in  all  sorts  of  surroundings  arid  with  little  or  no  antiseptic 
precautions?  Even  then,  however,  the  losses  will  by  no  means 
approach  the  past  mortality  of  50  to  70  per  cent,  so  that  the  economy 
will  be  immeasurable  under  even  the  worst  conditions.  A  fair  test 
and  judgment  of  this  treatment,  however,  can  be  obtained  only  when 
the  administrator  is  trustworthy  and  painstaking,  well  acquainted 
with  bateriological  antisepsis  and  with  the  general  and  special  path- 
ology of  the  bovine  animal. 

The  necessary  precautions  may  be  summarized  as  follows: 

( 1 )  Provide  an  elastic  rubber  ball  and  tubes  furnished  with  valves 
to  direct  the  current  of  air,  as  in  a  common  Davidson  syringe. 

(2)  Fill  the  delivery  tube  for  a  short  distance  with  cotton  steril- 
ized by  prolonged  heating  in  a  water  bath. 

(3)  In  the  free  end  of  the  delivery  tube  fit  a  milking  tube  to  be 
inserted  into  the  teat. 

(4)  Sterilize  the  entire  apparatus  by  boiling  for  30  minutes, 
and,  without  touching  the  milking  tube,  wrap  it  in  a  towel  that  has 
been  sterilized  in  a  water  bath  or  in  live  steam  and  dried. 

(5)  Avoid  drawing  any  milk  from  the  teats;  wash  them  and  the 
udder  thoroughly  with  warm  soapsuds;  rinse  off  with  well-boiled 
and  cooled  water,  and  apply  to  the  teats,  and  especially  to  their  tips, 
a  5  per  cent  solution  of  carbolic  acid  or  lysol,  taking  care  that  the 
teats  are  not  allowed  to  touch  any  other  body  from  the  time  they  are 
cleansed  until  the  teat  tube  is  inserted.  It  is  well  to  rest  the  cleansed 
and  disinfected  udder  on  a  sterilized  pad  of  cotton  or  a  boiled  towel. 

(6)  The  injecting  apparatus  is  unwrapped ;  the  teat  tube,  seized  by 
its  attached  end  and  kept  from  contact  with  any  other  body,  is  in- 
serted into  the  teat,  while  an  assistant  working  the  rubber  pump  fills 
the  quarter  as  full  as  it  will  hold.  The  tube  is  now^  withdrawn  and  a 
broad  tape  is  tied  around  the  free  end  of  the  teat  to  j)revent  escape  of 
the  air. 

(7)  The  teat  tube,  wdiich  has  been  carefully  preserved  from  pos- 
sible contact  with  other  bodies,  is  dipped  in  the  carbolic  acid  solution 
and  inserted  in  a  second  teat,  and  the  second  quarter  is  inflated,  and 
so  with  the  third  and  fourth. 

(8)  The  recumbent  cow  is  kept  resting  on  her  breastbone,  with  the 
head  elevated,  even  if  it  should  be  necessary  to  pack  around  her  with 
straw  bundles  or  to  suspend  the  head  by  a  halter.  When  lying  on  her 
side  she  is  liable  to  develop  fatal  bloating  and  to  have  belching  of  gas 
and  liquids,  which,  passing  down  the  windpipe,  cause  fatal  broncho- 
pneumonia. 


DISEASES    FOLLOWING    PARTURITION.  231 

(9)  If  in  2  hours  the  cow  is  not  on  her  feet,  if  there  is  no  brighter 
or  more  intelligent  expression,  if  she  has  passed  no  manure  or  urine, 
and  if  the  air  has  become  absorbed,  leaving  the  udder  less  tense,  the 
injection  of  the  bag  may  be  repeated,  under  the  same  scrupulous  and 
rigid  precautions  as  at  first.  In  all  cases,  but  especially  in  severe 
ones,  it  is  "well  to  keep  watch  of  the  patient,  and  to  repeat  the  dis- 
tention on  the  first  indication  of  relapse.  Should  there  not  be  a 
free  discharge  of  feces  and  urine  after  rising,  indicating  a  natural 
resumption  of  the  nervous  functions,  the  case  should  be  all  the  more 
carefully  watched,  so  that  the  treatment  may  be  repeated  if  necessary. 

Accessory  treatment  may  still  be  used,  but  is  rarely  necessary.  A 
dose  of  purgative  medicine  (1|  pounds  of  Epsom  salt)  in  warm  water 
may  be  given  in  the  early  stages,  while  as  yet  there  is  no  danger 
of  its  passing  into  the  lungs  through  paralysis  of  the  throat.  Eserin 
or  pilocarpin  (1^  grains)  may  be  given  under  the  skin  to  stimulate 
the  movements  of  the  bowels.  Sponging  the  skin,  and  especially  the 
udder,  with  cool  water,  may  be  resorted  to  in  hot  weather. 

Bloating  may  demand  puncture  of  the  paunch,  in  the  left  flank, 
with  a  cannula  and  trocar,  the  evacuation  of  the  gas,  and  the  intro- 
duction through  the  tube  of  a  tablespoonful  of  strong  liquid  ammonia 
in  a  quart  of  cold  water  or  other  antiferment. 

The  economic  value  of  the  new  treatment  of  milk  fever  is  enor- 
mous. The  United  States  has  nearly  22,000,000  milch  cows.  If  we 
could  raise  their  quality  by  preserving  and  breeding  from  the  largest 
producers  of  both  milk  and  butter  fat,  in  place  of  losing  the  best  by 
milk  fever,  as  in  the  past,  and  if  we  could  thus  obtain  an  average 
increase  of  2  quarts  a  day,  the  proceeds  at  3  cents  a  quart  would 
amount  to  $130,000,000  a  year. 

PALSY  AFTER  CALVING  (DROPPING  AFTER  CALVING). 

This  consists  in  a  more  or  less  complete  loss  of  control  of  the  hind 
limbs  occurring  after  calving,  and  caused  by  low  condition,  weak- 
ness, and  exposure  to  cold  or  to  injurious  compression  of  the  nerves 
of  the  hind  limbs  by  a  large  calf  passing  through  the  pelvis.  Its 
symptoms  do  not  differ  from  those  of  palsy  of  the  hind  limbs,  occur- 
ring at  other  times,  and  it  may  be  treated  in  the  same  way,  except  so 
far  as  bruises  of  the  vagina  may  demand  special  smoothing  treat- 
ment. 

CONGESTION  OF  THE  UDDER  (GARGET). 

In  heavy  milkers,  before  and  just  after  calving,  it  is  the  rule  that 
the  mammary  gland  is  enlarged,  hot,  tense,  and  tender,  and  that  a 
slight  exudation  or  pasty  swelling  extends  forward  from  the  gland 
on  the  lower  surface  of  the  abdomen.  This  physiological  congestion 
is  looked  upon  as  a  matter  of  course,  and  disappears  in  two  or  three 
days  when  the  secretion  of  milk  has  been  fully  established.     This 


232  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

breaking  up  of  the  bag  may  be  greatly  hastened  by  the  sucking  of  a 
hungry  calf  and  the  Imeading  it  gives  the  udder  with  its  nose,  by 
stripping  the  glands  clean  thrice  daily,  and  by  active  rubbing  at  each 
milking  with  the  palm  of  the  hand,  with  or  without  lard  or,  better, 
with  camphorated  ointment. 

The  congestion  may  be  at  times  aggravated  by  standing  in  a  draft 
of  cold  air  or  by  neglect  to  milk  for  an  entire  day  or  more  (over- 
stocking, hefting)  with  the  view  of  making  a  great  show  of  udder 
for  purposes  of  sale.  In  such  cases  the  surface  of  the  bag  pits  on 
pressure,  and  the  milk  has  a  reddish  tinge  or  even  streaks  of  blood, 
or  it  is  partially  or  fully  clotted  and  is  drawn  with  difficulty,  mixed, 
it  may  be,  with  a  yellowish  serum  (whey)  which  has  separated  from 
the  casein.  This  should  be  treated  like  the  above,  though  it  may 
sometimes  demand  fomentations  with  warm  water  to  ward  off  in- 
flammation, and  it  may  be  a  week  before  the  natural  condition  of  the 
gland  is  restored. 

INFLAMMATION  OF  THE  UDDER  (SIMPLE  MAMMITIS). 

Congestion  may  merge  into  active  inflammation,  or  it  may  arise 
direct,  in  connection  with  exposure  to  cold  or  wet,  with  standing  in  a 
cold  draft,  with  blows  on  the  udder  with  clubs,  stones,  horns,  or  feet, 
with  injury  from  a  sharp  or  cold  stone,  or  the  projecting  edge  of  a 
board  or  end  of  a  nail  in  the  floor,  with  sudden  and  extreme  changes 
of  weather,  with  overfeeding  on  rich  albuminous  feed  like  cotton 
seed,  beans,  or  peas,  with  indigestions,  with  sores  on  the  teats,  or 
with  insufficient  stripping  of  the  udder  in  milking.  In  the  period 
of  full  milk  the  organ  is  so  susceptible  that  any  serious  disturbance 
of  the  general  health  is  liable  to  fall  upon  the  udder. 

Symptoms. — The  symptoms  and  mode  of  onset  vary  in  different 
cases.  When  following  exposure  there  is  usually  a  violent  shivering 
fit,  with  cold  horns,  ears,  tail,  and  limbs,  and  general  erection  of  the 
hair.  This  is  succeeded  by  a  flush  of  heat  (reaction)  in  which  the 
horns,  ears,  and  limbs  become  unnaturally  warm  and  the  gland  swells 
up  and  becomes  firm  and  solid  in  one,  tAvo,  three,  or  all  four  quarters. 
There  is  hot  dry  muzzle,  elevated  temperature,  full,  accelerated  pulse, 
and  excited  breathing,  impaired  or  suspended  appetite  and  rumina- 
tion, with  more  or  less  costiveness,  suppression  of  urine,  and  a  lessened 
yield  of  milk,  which  may  be  entirely  suppressed  in  the  affected 
quarter. 

In  other  cases  the  shivering  escapes  notice,  the  general  disorder  of 
the  system  is  little  marked  or  comes  on  late,  and  the  first  observed 
sign  of  illness  is  the  firm  swelling,  heat,  and  tenderness  of  the  bag. 
As  the  inflammation  increases  and  extends,  the  hot,  tender  udder 
causes  the  animal  to  straddle  with  its  hind  limbs,  and,  when  walking, 
to  halt  on  the  limb  on  that  side.    If  the  cow  lies  down  it  is  on  the 


DISEASES   FOLLOWING    PAETUEITION.  233 

unaffected  side.  With  tlie  increase  in  intensity  and  the  extension  of 
the  inflammation  the  general  fever  manifests  itself  more  prominently. 
In  some  instances  the  connective  tissue  beneath  the  skin  and  be- 
tween the  lobules  of  the  gland  is  affected,  then  the  swelling  is  uni- 
formly rounded  and  of  nearly  the  same  consistency,  pitting  every- 
where on  pressure.  In  other  cases  it  primarily  attacks  the  secreting 
tissue  of  the  gland,  then  the  swelling  is  more  localized  and  appears 
as  hard,  nodular  masses  in  the  interior  of  the  gland.  This  last  is 
the  usual  form  of  inflammation  occurring  from  infection  entering  by 
the  teats. 

In  all  cases,  but  especially  in  the  last-named  form,  the  milk  is  sup- 
pressed and  replaced  by  a  watery  fluid  colored  with  blood  (some- 
times deeply)  and  mingled  with  masses  of  clotted  casein.  Later  it 
becomes  white  and  purulent,  and  in  many  cases  of  an  offensive  odor. 

The  course  of  the  disease  is  sometimes  so  rapid  and  at  others  so 
slow  that  no  definite  rule  can  be  laid  down.  In  two  or  three  days,  or 
from  that  to  the  end  of  the  week,  the  bag  may  soften,  lose  its  heat  and 
tenderness,  and  subside  into  the  healthy  condition,  even  resuming  the 
secretion  of  milk.  The  longer  the  inflammatory  hardness  continues 
the  greater  the  probability  that  its  complete  restoration  will  not  be 
effected.  When  a  portion  of  the  gland  fails  to  be  restored  in  this 
way,  and  has  its  secretion  arrested,  it  usually  shrinks  to  a  smaller 
size.  More  commonly  a  greater  quantity  of  the  inflammatory  prod- 
uct remains  in  the  gland  and  develops  into  a  solid,  fibrous  mass,  caus- 
ing permanent  hardening  (induration).  In  other  cases,  in  place  of 
the  product  of  inflammation  developing  into  a  fibrous  mass,  it  softens 
and  breaks  down  into  white,  creamy,  liquid  pus  (abscess).  This  ab- 
scess may  make  its  way  to  the  surface  and  escape  externally,  or  it  may 
burst  into  a  milk  duct  and  discharge  through  the  teat.  It  may  break 
into  both  and  establish  a  channel  for  the  escape  of  milk  (fistula).  In 
the  worst  types  of  the  disease  gangrene  may  ensue,  a  quarter  or  half 
or  even  the  whole  udder,  losing  its  vitality,  and  sloughing  off  if  the 
cow  can  bear  up  against  the  depressing  influence.  These  gangi-enous 
cases  are  probably  always  the  result  of  infection  and  sometimes  run 
a  very  rapidly  fatal  course.  I  remember  one  to  which  I  was  called 
as  soon  as  the  owner  noticed  it,  yet  I  found  one-quarter  dark  blue, 
cold,  and  showing  a  tendency  to  the  formation  of  blebs  containing 
a  bloody  secretion.  The  cow,  which  had  waded  through  a  depth  of 
semiliquid  manure  to  reach  her  stall,  died  within  24  hours. 

Treatment. — Treatment  varies  with  the  type  and  the  stage  of  the 
disease.  If  the  case  is  seen  in  the  shivering  fit,  every  effort  should 
be  made  to  cut  it  short,  as  the  inflammation  may  be  thereby  gTeatly 
moderated,  if  not  checked.  Copious  drinks  of  warm  water  thrown  in 
from  horn  or  bottle;  equally  copious  warm  injections;  the  applica- 
tion of  heat  in  some  form  to  the  surface  of  the  body  (by  a  rug  wrung 


234  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

out  of  hot  water;  b}^  hanging  over  the  back  and  loins  bags  loosely 
filled  with  bran,  sand,  salt,  chaff,  or  other  agent  previously  heated 
in  a  stove ;  by  the  use  of  a  flatiron  or  the  warming  of  the  surface  by 
a  hot-air  bath),  or  by  active  friction  with  straw  wisps  by  two  or 
more  persons;  the  administration  of  a  pint  of  strong  alcoholic 
liquor,  or  of  1  ounce  of  ground  ginger,  may  serve  to  shorten  the 
attack.  After  half  an  hour's  sweat  the  animal  should  be  rubbed 
and  covered  with  a  dry  blanket. 

If,  on  the  other  hand,  there  is  little  or  no  fever,  and  only  a  slight 
inflanmiation,  rub  well  with  camphorated  ointment  or  a  weak  iodin 
ointment,  and  milk  three,  four,  or  six  times  a  day,  rubbing  the  bag 
thoroughly  each  time.  Milking  must  be  done  with  great  gentleness, 
squeezing  the  teat  in  place  of  pulling  and  stripping  it,  and  if  this 
causes  too  much  pain,  the  teat  tube  (PL  XXIV,  fig.  4)  or  the  spring 
teat  dilator  (PI.  XXIV,  fig.  3)  may  be  employed.  Antiseptic  injec- 
tions of  the  teats  and  udder  are  often  useful,  and  iodoform  in  water 
has  been  especially  recommended.  It  ma}^  be  replaced  by  one  of  the 
injections  advised  for  parturition  fever,  used  with  the  same  careful 
precautions. 

In  cases  in  which  the  fever  has  set  in  and  the  inflammation  is  more 
advanced,  a  dose  of  laxative  medicine  is  desirable  (Epsom  salt,  1  to 
2  pounds;  ginger,  1  ounce),  which  may  be  followed,  after  the  purg- 
ing has  ceased,  by  daily  doses  of  saltpeter,  1  ounce.  Many  rely  on 
cooling  and  astringent  applications  to  the  inflamed  quarter  (vinegar, 
sugar-of-lead  lotion,  cold  water,  ice,  etc.),  but  a  safer  and  better 
resort  is  continued  fomentation  with  warm  water.  A  bucket  of 
warm  water,  replenished  as  it  cools,  may  be  set  beneath  the  udder, 
and  two  persons  can  raise  a  rug  out  of  this  and  hold  it  against  the 
udder,  dipping  it  anew  whenever  the  temperature  is  somewhat 
lowered.  A  sheet  may  be  passed  around  the  body,  with  holes  cut  for 
the  teats,  soft  rags  packed  between  it  and  the  udder,  and  kept  warm 
by  pouring  water  on  every  10  or  15  minutes,  as  warm  as  the  hand 
can  bear.  When  this  has  been  kept  up  for  an  hour  or  two,  the  bag 
may  be  dried,  well  rubbed  with  soap,  and  left  thus  with  a  soapy 
coating.  If  the  pain  is  great,  extract  of  belladonna  may  be  applied 
along  with  the  soap,  and  a  dry  suspensory  bandage  with  holes  for 
the  teats  may  be  applied.  Strong,  mercurial  ointment  is  very  useful 
in  relieving  pain  and  softening  the  bag.  This  is  especially  valuable 
when  the  disease  is  protracted  and  induration  threatens.  It  may  be 
mixed  with  an  equal  quantity  of  soap  and  half  as  much  extract  of 
belladonna.  In  cases  of  threatened  induration  excellent  results  are 
sometimes  obtained  from  a  weak-induction  current  of  electricity 
sent  through  the  gland  daily  for  10  minutes. 

If  abscess  threatens,  it  may  be  favored  by  fomentation  and  opened 
as  soon  as  fluctuation  from  finger  to  finger  shows  the  formation  of 


DISEASES    FOLLOWING    PARTURITION.  235 

matter  at  a  point  formerly  hard.  The  wound  may  bleed  freely,  and 
there  is  a  risk  of  opening  a  milk  duct,  yet  relief  will  be  obtained ;  also 
a  dressing  twice  daily  with  a  lotion  of  carbolic  acid  1  part,  water  20 
parts,  and  glycerin  1  part  will  suffice  to  keep  the  wound  clean  and 
healthy. 

Gangrene  of  the  affected  part  is  often  fatal.  It  demands  antisep- 
tics (chlorid  of  zinc,  1  dram  to  1  quart  water)  applied  frequently  to 
the  part,  or,  if  the  case  can  not  be  attended,  smear  the  affected  quar- 
ter with  Venice  turpentine,  melted,  or  even  wood  tar.  Antiseptic 
tonics  (tincture  of  chlorid  of  iron,  4  drams)  may  also  be  given  four 
times  daily  in  a  quart  of  water. 

CONTAGIOUS   MAMMITIS    (CONTAGIOUS   INFLAMMATION   OF   THE 

UDDER). 

As  stated  in  the  last  article,  that  form  of  inflammation  of  the  udder 
which  attacks  the  gland  ducts  and  follicles,  causing  deep-seated,  hard, 
nodular  swellings,  is  often  contagious.  Franck  has  demonstrated 
this  by  injecting  into  the  milk  ducts  in  different  cows  (milking  and 
dry)  the  pus  from  the  bags  of  cows  affected  with  mammitis,  or  the 
liquids  of  putrid  flesh,  or  putrid  blood,  and  in  every  case  he  produced 
acute  inflammation  of  the  gland  tissue  within  twenty-four  hours. 
He  thinks  that  in  ordinary  conditions  the  septic  germ  gains  access  by 
propagating  itself  through  the  milk,  filling  the  milk  canal  and  oozing 
from  the  external  orifice.  He  points  to  this  as  a  reason  why  dry  cows 
escape  tlie  malady,  though  mingling  freely  with  the  sufferers,  and 
why  such  dry  cows  do  not  suffer  from  inflammation  of  the  gland  tis- 
sue when  attacked  with  foot-and-mouth  disease.  In  this  last  case  it  is 
evident  that  it  is  not  simply  the  inoculation  with  the  milker's  hand 
that  is  lacking,  for  the  skin  of  the  bag  is  attacked,  but  not  its  secret- 
ing, glandular  parts.  Now  that  in  any  case  of  abscess  we  look  for  the 
cause  in  the  chain  forms  of  globular  bacteria  {Streptococcus  pyog- 
enes)^ in  the  cluster  form  of  white,  globular  bacteria  {Staphylococ- 
cus pyogenes  albus)^  and  in  the  golden  and  citron-yellow  forms  of 
clustered  globular  bacteria  {Staphylococcus  pyogenes  aureus  and 
Staphylococcus  pyogenes  citreus),  the  formation  of  pus  gives  pre- 
sumptive evidence  of  the  action  of  one  or  more  of  these  germs.  So  in 
cases  of  mortification  of  the  bag ;  in  the  very  occurrence  there  is  fair 
circumstantial  evidence  of  the  presence  of  erysipelas  micrococcus  or 
other  germ  which  kills  the  local  tissues.  Again,  in  tuberculosis 
affecting  the  bag  (a  not  uncommon  condition),  the  active  local  cause 
is  without  doubt  the  tubercle  bacillus. 

It  has  been  found  that  false  membranes  have  formed  in  certain 
cases  of  mammitis  in  the  cow,  and  Klein,  after  inoculating  the  diph- 
theria of  man  on  the  cow,  found  an  ulcerous  sore  in  the  seat  of  inoc- 
ulation and  blisters  on  the  teats  and  udder,  in  which  he  found  what 


236  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

he  believed  to  be  the  bacilhis  of  diphtheria.  The  results  are  doubt- 
ful, even  in  the  absence  of  false  membranes.  Loffler,  too,  in  the 
diphtheria  of  calves,  found  that  the  germ  was  longer  and  more  deli- 
cate than  that  of  man,  and  that  its  pathogenesis  for  rodents  was 
less,  guinea  pigs  having  only  a  nonfatal  abscess.  The  presence  of 
false  membranes  in  one  form  of  mammitis  in  cows  does  not  neces- 
sarily imply  its  communicability  to  man. 

It  has  been  asserted  that  scarlet  fever  has  been  transmitted  from 
the  cow  to  man,  and  it  can  not  be  denied  that  in  many  cases  the  infec- 
tion has  been  spread  by  means  of  the  milk.  The  facts,  however,  when 
brought  out  fully  have  shown  that  in  almost  every  case  the  milk 
had  first  come  into  contact  with  a  person  suffering  or  recovering 
from  scarlet  fever,  so  that  the  milk  was  infected  after  it  left  the  cow. 
The  alleged  exceptional  cases  at  Hendon  and  Dover,  England,  are 
not  conclusive.  In  the  Hendon  outbreak  inoculations  were  made  on 
calves  from  the  slight  eruption  on  the  cow's  teats,  and  they  had  a 
slight  eruption  on  the  lips  and  a  form  of  inflammation  of  the  kidneys, 
which  Dr.  Klein  thought  resembled  that  of  scarlatina.  The  cows  that 
had  brought  the  disease  to  the  Hendon  dairies  were  traced  back  to 
Wiltshire,  where  cows  were  found  suffering  from  a  similar  malady, 
but  no  sign  of  scarlet  fever  resulted.  In  the  Dover  outbreak  the 
dairyman  first  denied  any  disease  in  his  cows,  and  brought  a  certifi- 
cate of  a  veterinarian  to  prove  that  they  were  sound  at  the  time  of  the 
investigation;  then  later  he  confessed  that  the  cows  had  had  foot- 
and-mouth  disease  some  time  before,  and  consequent  eruption  on  the 
teats.  So  the  question  remains  whether  the  man  who  denied  sickness 
in  the  cows  to  begin  with,  and  adduced  professional  evidence  of  it, 
did  not  later  acknowledge  the  foot-and-mouth  disease  as  a  blind  to 
hide  the  real  source  of  the  trouble  in  scarlatina  in  his  own  family  or 
in  the  family  of  an  employee. 

In  America  Dr.  Stickler  said  that  he  had  produced  scarlatina 
in  children  by  inoculation  with  imported  virus  of  foot-and-mouth  dis- 
ease, but  his  contention  is  negatived  by  the  facts  that  with  foot-and- 
mouth  disease  constantly  present  in  Europe  scarlatina  does  not  ac- 
company it,  and  that  in  America,  with  scarlatina  constantly  prevail- 
ing at  some  point,  foot-and-mouth  disease  is  unknown  locally  except 
at  long  intervals  and  as  the  result  of  the  importation  of  infected  ani- 
mals or  their  products.  Man  is  susceptible  to  foot-and-mouth  disease, 
but  it  never  appears  during  the  frequent  epidemics  of  scarlatina. 

Among  other  contagious  forms  of  mammitis  I  may  name  one  v»'hich 
I  have  encountered  in  large  dairies,  starting  as  a  sore  and  slight 
swelling  at  the  opening  of  the  teat  and  extending  up  along  the  milk 
duct  to  the  gland  structure  in  the  bag,  all  of  which  become  indurated, 
nodular,  and  painful.    The  milk  is  entirely  suppressed  in  that  quarter 


DISEASES   FOLLOWING    PARTURITION.  237 

of  the  bag,  and  from  that  it  may  extend  to  the  others  as  it  does  from 
COW  to  cow  through  the  milker's  hands. 

Another  form  almost  universally  prevalent  in  this  district  of  cen- 
tral New  York  in  1889  broke  out  on  the  teats  and  udders  as  blisters 
strongly  resembling  cowpox,  but  which  were  not  propagated  when 
inoculated  on  calves.  It  was  only  exceptionally  that  this  extended 
through  the  teat  to  the  gland  tissue,  yet  in  some  instances  the  bag 
was  lost  from  this  cause.  Scarlatina  in  man  was  very  prevalent  at 
the  time  (many  schools  Avere  closed  in  consequence),  but  no  definite 
connection  seemed  to  exist  between  this  and  the  cow  disease,  and  on 
different  dairy  farms  there  were  families  of  young  children  that  had 
never  had  scarlet  fever  and  who  did  not  at  that  time  contract  it. 

The  most  common  cause  of  contagious  mammitis  in  cattle  is  a 
spherical  bacterium  in  chain  form  {Streptococcus)  (Moore,  Ward). 
Yet  it  is  clear  that  contagious  mammitis  is  not  a  single  affection,  but 
a  group  of  diseases  which  have  this  in  common,  that  they  attack  the 
udder. 

Prevention. — Prevention  is  to  be  especially  sought  in  all  such  cases. 
In  purchasing  new  cows  see  that  they  come  from  a  herd  where  the 
teats  and  udder  are  sound.  If  a  new  cow  with  unknown  antecedents 
comes  from  a  public  market,  let  her  be  milked  for  a  week  by  a  person 
who  does  not  milk  any  other  cows.  Keep  her  in  a  separate  stall  from 
others,  so  that  there  may  be  no  infection  from  litter  or  flooring. 
Wash  the  udder  with  soap  and  water,  and  wet  with  a  solution  of  two 
teaspoonfuls  of  carbolic  acid  in  a  pint  of  water  before  letting  the 
regular  milker  of  the  other  cows  take  her.  If  any  cow  in  the  herd 
shows  the  indurated  end  of  the  teat  or  the  inflammation  and  nodular 
tender  character  of  the  gland,  sequestrate  her  at  once  and  give  her  a 
separate  milker.  If  another  cow  is  to  be  put  into  the  stall  she  occu- 
pied, first  clean  and  scrape  it,  and  wet  it  with  a  strong  solution  of 
bluestone,  5  ounces  in  a  gallon  of  water.  The  milk  may  be  drawn  off 
with  a  teat  tube,  or  spring  teat  dilator  (PL  XXIV,  figs.  3  and  4),  and 
the  milk  ducts  injected  frequently  with  a  solution  of  peroxid  of 
hydrogen  or  iodoform.  I  have  had  little  success  in  checking  the  up- 
ward progress  of  the  disease  through  the  teat  with  carbolic  acid  or 
boric-acid  solutions.  Used  on  the  outside  of  the  other  teats,  how- 
ever, they  may  serve  to  prevent  them  from  becoming  infected.  In  the 
absence  of  peroxid  of  hydrogen  the  affected  teat  may  be  injected 
with  a  solution  of  1  grain  corrosive  sublimate  in  a  pint  of  water, 
and  the  same  may  be  used  on  the  other  teats,  provided  it  is  washed 
off  every  time  before  milking. 

As  additional  precautions,  no  cow  with  a  retained  afterbirth  or 
unhealthy  discharge  from  the  womb  should  be  left  with  the  other 
cows.    Such  cows  doubtless  infect  their  own  udders  and  those  of  the 


238  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

COWS  next  them  by  lashing  with  the  soiled  tail.  If  milkers  handle 
retained  afterbirth  or  vaginal  discharge,  or  vmhealthy  wounds,  or 
assist  in  a  difficult  and  protracted  parturition,  they  should  wash  the 
hands  and  arms  thoroughly  with  soap  and  warm  water  and  then  rub 
them  with  the  corrosive  sublimate  solution,  or  if  not,  at  least  with 
one  of  carbolic  acid.  Clothes  stained  with  such  offensive  products 
should  be  thoroughly  washed. 

The  general  treatment  of  contagious  mammitis  does  not  differ  from 
that  of  the  simple  form,  except  that  antiseptics  should  be  given  by 
the  mouth  as  well  as  applied  locally  (hyposulphite  of  soda,  one-half 
ounce  daily). 

COWPOX. 

This  is  another  form  of  contagious  inflammation  of  the  udder  which 
does  not  spread  readily  from  animal  to  animal  except  by  the  hands 
of  the  milker.  It  is  held  to  occur  spontaneously  in  the  cow,  but  this 
is  altogether  improbable,  and  so-called  spontaneous  cases  are  rather 
to  be  looked  on  as  instances  in  which  the  germs  have  been  preserved 
dry  in  the  buildings  or  introduced  in  some  unknown  manner.  It  is 
not  uncommon  in  the  horse,  attacking  the  heels,  the  lips,  or  some 
other  inoculated  part  of  the  body,  and  is  then  easily  transferred  to 
the  cow,  if  the  same  man  grooms  and  dresses  the  horse  and  milks  the 
cow.  It  may  also  appear  in  the  cow  by  infection,  more  or  less  direct, 
from  a  person  who  has  been  successfully  vaccinated.  Many  believe 
that  it  is  only  a  form  of  the  smallpox  of  man  modified  by  passing 
through  the  system  of  cow  or  horse.  It  is,  however,  unreasonable  to 
suppose  that  this  alleged  modified  smallpox  could  have  been  trans- 
mitted from  child  to  child  (the  most  susceptible  of  the  human  race) 
for  90  years,  under  all  possible  conditions,  without  once  reverting 
to  its  original  type  of  smallpox.  Chauveau's  experiments  on  both 
cattle  and  horses  with  the  virus  of  smallpox  and  its  inoculation  back 
on  the  human  subject  go  far  to  show  that  in  the  climate  of  western 
Europe,  at  least,  no  such  transformation  takes  jDlace.  Smallpox 
remains  smallpox  and  cowpox,  cowpox.  xVgain,  smallpox  is  com- 
municable to  a  person  who  visits  the  patient  in  his  room  but  avoids 
touching  him,  while  cowpox  is  never  thus  transferred  through  the  air 
unless  deliberately  diffused  in  the  form  of  spray.  The  demonstration 
of  a  protozoan  germ  in  smallpox  implies  a  similar  microbe  in  cowpox. 

The  disease  in  the  cow  is  ushered  in  by  a  slight  fever,  which,  how- 
ever, is  usually  overlooked,  and  the  first  sign  is  tenderness  of  the 
teats.  Examined,  these  may  be  redder  and  hotter  than  normal,  and 
at  the  end  of  two  days  there  appear  little  nodules,  like  small  peas,  of 
a  pale-red  color,  and  increasing  so  that  by  the  seventh  day  they 
may  measure  three-fourths  of  an  inch  to  1  inch  in  diameter.  The 
yield  of  milk  diminishes,  and  when  heated  it  coagulates  slightly. 


DISEASES   FOLLOWING    PARTURITION.  239 

From  the  seventh  to  the  tenth  day  the  eruption  forms  into  a  blister, 
with  raised  margins  and  a  depression  in  the  center,  and  from  which 
the  whole  of  the  liquid  can  not  be  drawn  by  a  single  puncture.  The 
blister,  in  other  words,  is  chambered,  and  each  chamber  must  be 
opened  to  evacuate  the  whole  of  the  contents.  If  the  pock  forms  on 
a  surface  where  there  is  thick  hair  it  does  not  rise  as  a  blister,  but 
oozes  out  a  straw-colored  fluid  which  concretes  on  the  hairs  in  an 
amber-colored  mass.  In  one  or  two  days  after  the  pock  is  full  it 
becomes  yellow  from  contained  pus  and  then  dries  into  a  brownish- 
yellow  scab,  which  finally  falls,  leaving  one  or  more  distinct  pits  in 
the  skin.  Upon  the  teats,  however,  this  regular  course  is  rarely  seen; 
the  vesicles  are  burst  by  the  hands  of  the  milker  as  soon  as  liquid 
is  formed,  and  as  they  continue  to  suffer  at  each  milking  they  form 
raw,  angry  sores,  scabbing  more  or  less  at  intervals,  but  are  slow  to 
undergo  healing. 

The  only  treatment  required  is  to  heal  the  sores.  As  milking  is 
the  main  cause  of  their  persistence,  that  must  be  done  as  gently  as 
possible,  or  even  with  the  teat  tube  or  dilator.  (PL  XXIY,  figs.  3 
and  4.)  It  is  essential  to  check  the  propagation  of  the  germ,  and 
for  this  purpose  the  sore  teats  may  be  washed  frequently  with  a 
solution  of  half  an  ounce  hyposulphite  of  soda  in  a  pint  of  water. 
This  will  usually  check  the  inflammation  and  cut  short  the  malady. 

SUPPRESSION  OF  MILK. 

The  absence  of  milk  in  the  udder  may  result  from  ill  health,  debil- 
ity, emaciation,  chronic  disease  of  the  bag,  wasting  of  the  gland 
from  j3revious  disease,  or  insufficient  feed,  but  sometimes  it  will 
occur  suddenly  without  any  appreciable  cause.  The  treatment  con- 
sists in  removing  the  cause  of  the  disease,  giving  rich  albuminoid 
feed  made  into  warm  mashes,  and  administering  ounce  doses  of 
aromatic  carminatives,  like  anise  seed,  fennel  seed,  etc.  Rubbing 
and  stripping  the  udder  are  useful;  the  application  of  oil  of  laven- 
der or  of  turpentine,  or  even  a  blister  of  Spanish  flies,  will  some- 
times succeed. 

BLOODY  MILK. 

Blood  may  escape  with  the  milk  when  the  udder  has  been  injured 
by  blows ;  also  when  it  is  congested  or  inflamed,  when  the  circulation 
through  it  has  been  suddenly  increased  by  richer  and  more  abundant 
feed,  or  when  the  cow  is  under  the  excitement  of  heat.  The  milk 
frothing  up  and  assuming  a  pink  tinge  is  often  the  first  sign  of  red 
water,  and  it  may  result  from  eating  acrid  or  irritant  plants,  like  the 
Ranunculacea?,  resinous  plants,  etc.  Deposits  of  tubercle  or  tumors 
in  the  udder,  or  induration  of  the  gland,  may  be  efficient  causes,  the 
irritation  caused  by  milking  contributing  to  draw  the  blood.     Finally, 


240  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

there  may  be  a  reddish  tmge  or  sediment  when  madder  or  logwood 
has  been  eaten. 

In  milk  which  becomes  red  after  it  is  drawn  it  may  be  from  the 
presence  in  it  of  the  MicTOcocaas  prodigiosus.  This  also  grows  on 
bread,  and  is  the  explanation  of  the  supposed  miracle  of  the  "  bleed- 
ing host." 

The  treatment  will  vary  with  the  cause.     In  congested  glands  give 

1  pound  of  Epsom  salt,  and  daily  thereafter  one-half  ounce  salt- 
peter, with  a  dram  of  chlorate  of  potassium ;  the  bag  should  be  bathed 
with  hot  or  cold  water,  and  rubbed  with  camphorated  lard.  If  the 
feed  is  too  rich  or  abundant  it  must  be  reduced.  If  from  acrid 
plants,  they  must  be  removed  from  pasture  or  fodder.  Induration 
of  the  udder  may  be  met  by  rubbing  with  a  combination  of  iodin 
ointment  1  part,  soft  soap  2  parts;  mercurial  ointment  and  soap  also 
may  be  used.     Careful  milking  is  imperative. 

BLUE  MILK. 

Watery  milk  is  blue,  but  the  presence  of  a  germ  {Bacillus  c^Or 
nogenes)  causes  a  distinct  blue  shade  even  in  rich  milk  and  cream. 
It  may  reach  the  milk  after  it  has  been  drawn,  or  it  may  find  its  way 
into  the  opening  of  the  milk  ducts  and  enter  the  milk  as  it  is  drawn. 
In  the  latter  case  frequent  milking  and  the  injection  of  a  solution  of 

2  drams  of  hyposulphite  of  soda  in  a  pint  of  water  into  the  teats  will 
serve  to  destroy  the  germs. 

STRINGY  MILK. 

This  may  be  caused  by  fungi  developing  in  the  liquid,  and  that  the 
spores  are  present  in  the  system  of  the  cow  may  be  safely  inferred 
from  the  fact  that  in  a  large  herd  two  or  three  cows  only  will  yield 
such  milk  at  a  time,  and  that  after  a  run  of  10  days  or  a  fortnight 
they  will  recover  and  others  will  be  attacked.  I  have  found  that 
.such  affected  cows  had  the  temperature  raised  one  or  two  degrees 
above  the  others.  Like  most  other  fungi  this  does  not  grow  out  into 
filaments  within  the  body  of  the  cow,  but  in  five  or  six  hours  after 
milking  the  surface  layers  are  found  to  be  one  dense  network  of  fila- 
ments. If  a  needle  is  dipped  in  this  and  lifted  the  liquid  is  drawn 
out  into  a  long  thread.  In  one  case  which  I  investigated  near 
Ithaca,  N.  Y.,  the  contamination  was  manifestly  from  a  spring 
which  oozed  out  of  a  bank  of  black-muck  soil  and  stood  in  pools 
mixed  with  the  dejections  of  the  animals.  Inoculation  of  pure  milk 
with  the  water  as  it  flowed  out  of  this  bank  developed  in  it  the 
fungus  and  the  stringy  characters.  By  fencing  the  spring  in  and 
giving  the  affected  cows  each  2  drams  bisulphite  of  soda  daily,  the 
trouble  was  arrested  promptly  and  permanently. 


DISEASES   FOLLOWING   PARTURITION.  241 

CHAPPED  TEATS. 

These  may  be  caused  by  anything  which  irritates  them.  The 
powerful  sucking  of  the  calf ;  the  sudden  chilling  of  the  teat  in  winter 
after  the  calf  has  just  let  it  go  or  after  the  completion  of  milking 
with  a  wet  hand;  contact  with  cold  water  or  stagnant,  putrid  water, 
or  with  filth  or  irritants  when  lying  down ;  slight  congestions  of  the 
skin  in  connection  with  overstocking;  indeed,  any  source  of  local 
irritation  may  cause  chapping.  This  may  be  slight  or  extend  into 
great,  gaping  sores  and  induce  retention  of  milk  or  even  mammitis. 
Soothing  applications  of  vaseline  or  a  combination  of  equal  parts  of 
spermaceti  and  oil  of  sweet  almonds  may  be  applied.  If  healing  is 
tardy,  add  10  grains  balsam  of  Peru  to  the  ounce  of  ointment.  If 
the  irritation  is  very  great,  wash  first  with  a  solution  of  1  dram  sugar 
of  lead  in  1  pint  of  water  and  then  apply  benzoated  zinc-oxid  oint- 
ment. 

WARTS  ON  THE  TEATS. 

These  are  often  very  troublesome,  yet  they  may  be  greatly  bene- 
fited or  entirely  removed  by  smearing  them  thickly  with  pure  olive 
oil  after  each  milking.  If  they  persist  they  may  be  cut  off  with  a  pair 
of  sharp  scissors  and  the  sore  touched  with  a  stick  of  lunar  caustic. 
They  may  now  be  oiled  and  the  caustic  repeated  as  demanded  to  pre- 
vent their  renewed  growth. 

Scahhy  teats  may  be  smeared  with  vaseline  containing  carbolic  acid 
enough  to  give  it  an  odor. 

TEAT  BLOCKED  BY  CONCRETION  OF  CASEIN. 

Under  unhealthy  conditions  of  the  gland  or  milk  ducts  clots  of 
casein  form  which,  pressed  clear  of  most  of  their  liquid  and  rolled 
into  rounded  masses,  may  block  the  passage.  They  can  be  moved  up 
and  down  by  manipulation  of  the  teat,  and  if  they  can  not  be  pressed 
out  they  may  be  extracted  by  using  the  spring  teat  dilator  (PI.  XXIV, 
fig.  3 ) ,  being  held  surrounded  by  its  three  limbs.  Before  extraction 
is  attempted  an  ounce  of  almond  oil,  boiled,  should  be  injected  into 
the  teat. 

TEAT  BLOCKED  BY  CALCULUS. 

When  the  calcareous  matter  of  the  milk  has  been  precipitated  in 
the  form  of  a  smooth,  rounded  stone,  a  rough,  conglomerated  concre- 
tion, or  a  fine,  sandlike  debris,  it  may  cause  obstruction  and  irrita- 
tion. These  bodies  are  felt  to  be  much  harder  than  those  formed  by 
casein,  and  the  milk  usually  contains  gritty  particles.  Extraction 
may  be  attempted,  in  the  case  of  the  finely  divided  gritty  matter,  by 
simple  milking  or  with  the  spring  dilator  (PI.  XXIV,  fig.  3)  in  the 
case  of  the  larger  masses.  Should  this  fail  the  teat  may  be  laid  open 
3307]  °— 16 16 


242  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

with  the  knife  and  sewed  up  again  or  closed  with  collodion,  but  such 
an  operation  is  best  deferred  until  the  cow  is  dry. 

TEAT  BLOCKED  BY  A  WARTY  OR  OTHER  GROWTH  INSIDE. 

In  this  case  the  obstruction  may  be  near  the  orifice  of  the  teat  or 
farther  up,  and  the  solid  mass  is  not  movable  up  and  down  with  the 
same  freedom  as  are  concretions  and  calculi.  The  movement  is  lim- 
ited by  the  elasticity  of  the  inner  membrane  of  the  teat  from  which  it 
grows,  and  is  somewhat  freer  in  certain  cases  because  the  growth  has 
become  loose  and  hangs  by  a  narrow  neck.  In  the  case  of  the  looser 
growths  they  may  be  snared  by  a  fine,  spring  wire  passed  as  a  loop 
through  a  fine  tube  (like  a  teat  tube  open  at  each  end)  and  introduced 
into  the  teat.  AVhen  this  can  not  be  done,  the  only  resort  is  to  cut 
in  and  excise  it  while  the  cow  is  dry. 

THICKENING  OF  THE  MUCOUS  MEMBRANE  AND  CLOSURE  OF  THE 

MILK  DUCT. 

As  a  result  of  inflammation  extending  from  without  inward,  a 
gradual  narrowing  of  the  milk  duct  may  occur  from  thickening  and 
narrowing  of  its  lining  membrane.  This  may  be  limited  to  a  small 
area  near  the  lower  end,  or  it  may  extend  through  the  whole  length 
of  the  teat.  The  stream  of  milk  becomes  finer  and  jEiner  until  it 
finally  ceases  altogether,  and  a  firm  cord  is  felt  running  through  the 
teat.  If  the  constriction  is  only  at  the  outlet,  the  teat  may  be  seized 
and  distended  bv  pressing  the  milk  down  into  it  from  above,  and  an 
incision  may  be  made  with  a  sharp  penknife  in  two  directions  at  right 
angles  to  each  other  and  directly  in  the  original  opening.  The  knife 
should  be  first  cleansed  in  boiling  water.  The  opening  may  be  kept 
from  closing  by  a  dumb-bell  shaped  bougie  of  gutta-percha  (PI. 
XXIV,  fig.  5)  or  by  the  spring  dilator.  If  the  obstruction  is  more 
extended  it  may  be  perforated  by  Liithi's  perforating  sound.  (PI. 
XXIV,  fig.  1a  and  1b.)  This  is  a  steel  wire  with  a  ring  at  one  end, 
and  at  the  other  is  screwed  on  to  the  wire  a  conical  cap  with  sharp 
cutting  edges  at  the  base,  which  scrapes  away  the  thickened  masses 
of  cells  as  it  is  drawn  back.  This  may  be  passed  again  and  again  to 
enlarge  the  passages  sufficiently,  and  then  the  passage  may  be  kept 
open  by  wearing  a  long,  dumb-bell  bougie,  a  thick  piece  of  carbolized 
catgut,  or  a  spring  dilator.  If  the  passage  can  not  be  sufficiently 
opened  with  the  sound  it  may  be  incised  by  the  hidden  bistoury.  (PI. 
XXIV,  fig.  2.)  This  is  a  knife  lying  alongside  a  flattened  protector 
with  smooth,  rounded  edges,  but  which  can  be  projected  to  an}'  re- 
quired distance  by  a  lever  on  the  handle.  The  incisions  are  made  in 
four  directions,  as  deep  as  may  be  necessary,  and  the  walls  then 
can  be  held  apart  by  the  spring  dilator  until  they  heal.    In  case  the 


DISEASES   FOLLOWING    PARTURITION.  243 

constriction  and  thickening  of  the  canal  extend  the  whole  length  of 
the  teat,  it  is  practically  beyond  remedy,  as  the  gland  is  usually  in- 
volved so  as  to  render  it  useless. 

CLOSURE  OF  THE  MILK  DUCT  BY  A  MEMBRANE. 

In  this  form  the  duct  of  the  teat  is  closed  by  the  constriction  of  its 
lining  membrane  at  one  point,  usually  without  thickening.  The  clos- 
ure usually  takes  place  while  the  cow  is  dry ;  otherwise  its  progress  is 
gradual,  and  for  a  time  the  milk  may  still  be  pressed  through  slowly. 
In  such  case,  if  left  at  rest,  the  lower  part  of  the  teat  fills  up  and 
the  milk  flows  in  a  full  stream  at  the  first  pressure,  but  after  this  it 
will  not  fill  up  again  without  sufficient  time  for  it  to  filter  through. 
This  is  to  be  cut  open  by  the  hidden  bistoury  (PL  XXIV,  fig.  2), 
which  may  be  first  passed  through  the  opening  of  the  membrane,  if 
such  exists.  If  not  it  ma}^  be  bored  through,  or  it  may  be  pressed  up 
against  the  membrane  at  one  side  of  the  teat  and  opened  toward  the 
center,  so  as  to  cut  its  way  through.  Incisions  should  be  made  in  at 
least  two  opposite  directions,  and  the  edges  then  may  be  held  apart 
by  wearing  the  spring  dilator  until  healing  has  been  completed. 

In  all  cases  of  operations  on  the  teats  the  instruments  must  be 
thoroughly  disinfected  with  hot  water,  or  by  dipping  in  carbolic  acid 
and  then  in  water  that  has  been  boiled. 

OPENING  IN  THE  SIDE  OF  THE  TEAT  (MILK  FISTULA). 

This  may  occur  from  wounds  penetrating  the  milk  duct  and  failing 
to  close,  or  it  may  be  congenital,  and  then  very  often  it  leads  to  a  dis- 
tinct milk  duct  and  an  independent  portion  of  the  gland.  In  the  first 
form  it  is  necessary  only  to  dissect  away  the  skin  leading  into  the 
opening  for  some  distance  down,  to  close  the  orifice  Mdth  stitches,  and 
to  cover  the  whole  with  collodion.  A  teat  tube  or  spring  dilator  may 
be  worn  to  drain  the  milk  off  and  prevent  distention  and  reopening 
of  the  orifice.  In  case  of  an  independent  milk  duct  and  gland  one  of 
two  courses  may  be  selected — to  open  the  one  duct  into  the  other  by 
incision  and  then  close  the  offending  opening,  or  to  inject  the  super- 
fluous gland  through  its  duct  with  a  caustic  solution,  so  as  to  destroy 
its  secreting  power.  In  both  cases  it  is  desirable  to  wait  until  the 
cow  goes  dry. 


DISEASES  FOLLOWING  PARTURITION. 

DESCRIPTION    OF   PLATES. 

Plates  XXII,  XXIII.  Supports  for  prolapsed  uterus.  These  illustrations  show 
various  appliances  used  in  prolapse  or  inversion  of  the  uterus.  Th^ 
uterus  should  first  be  returned  to  its  proper  situation  and  then  some 
apparatus  applied  to  prevent  a  recurrence  of  the  inversion  or  pro- 
trusion. 
Plate  XXII : 

Fig.  1.  Crupper,  strap  truss.     (From  Hill's  Bovine  Medicine  and  Surgery.) 

Fig.  2.  Renault's  rope  truss.     The  rope  for  this  truss  should  be  from  25 
to  30  feet  long  and  about  the  thickness  of  the  little  finger. 
Plate  XXIII : 

Fig.  1.  Cow  to  which  Delwart's  rope  truss  has  been  applied. 

Fig.  la  shows  the  loop  of  Delwart's  truss. 

Fig.  2.  Zundel's  labial  sutures.  These  consist  of  two  wires  passed  through 
the  lips  of  the  vulva  in  a  horizontal  direction,  and  two  additional  wires 
passed  through  the  loops  at  the  ends  of  the  horizontal  wires  in  order 
to  hold  them  in  place. 

Fig.  3..  Iron  truss  for  holding  the  vagina  or  uterus  in  place  after  calving. 
The  cords  are  passed  through  the  ej'es  at  the  corners  of  the  triangular 
iron;  the  base  of  the  triangle  fits  under  the  tail.     The  truss  is  from 
5  to  7  inches  long  and  about  2*  inches  wide. 
Plate  XXIV,     Instruments  used  in  diseases  following  parturition. 

Fig.  1.  Liithi's  perforating  sound,  for  opening  the  milk  canal  through  the 
teat  when  this  has  become  occluded ;  A,  the  sound  one-half  the  natural 
size;  B,  section  of  head  of  sound,  natural  size,  showing  cutting  edge. 

Fig.  2.  Bistouri  cach§.  A  blade  hidden  in  its  sheath  which  by  pressure 
of  the  finger  may  be  made  to  protrude  a  certain  distance.  This  dis- 
tance is  regulated  by  the  screw  near  the  handle.  The  instrument  is 
used  to  open  the  milk  canal  when  closed  up.  It  is  introduced  into  the 
milk  canal  with  its  blade  in  the  sheath  and  withdrawn  with  the  blade 
protruding. 

Fig.  3.  Spring  teat  dilator,  about  one-half  natural  size,  for  dilating  the 
milk  canal. 

Fig.  4.  Ring  teat  syphon,  for  withdrawing  milk  when  the  teat  is  sore  or 
injured. 

Fig.  5.  Gutta-percha  bougie,  for  dilating  the  opening  of  the  teat. 

Fig.  6.  Truss  applied  to  calf  for  umbilical  or  navel  hernia.  (From  Flem- 
ing's Veterinary  Obstetrics.) 

Fig.  7.  Armatage's  iron  clamp  for  umbilical  or  navel  hernia.     When   this 
clamp  is  applied  care  must  be  taken  not  to  include  a  portion  of  the 
bowel. 
244 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  XXII. 


Supports  for  Prolapsed  Uterus. 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  XXIII. 


Supports  for  Prolapsed  Uterus. 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  XXIV. 


Instruments  Used  in  Diseases  Following  Parturition. 


DISEASES  OF  YOUNG  CALVES. 

By  James  Law,  F.  R.  C.  V.  S., 
Formerly  Professor  of  Veterinary  Science,  etc.,  in  Cornell  University. 

SUSPENDED  BREATHING. 

The  moment  the  circulation  through  the  naval  string  is  stopped 
the  blood  of  the  calf  begins  to  become  overcharged  with  carbon  dioxid 
(CO,),  and  unless  breathing  is  speedily  established  death  promptly 
follows.  Fortunately  the  desire  to  breathe,  roused  by  the  circulation 
of  the  venous  blood  and  the  reflex  action  from  the  wet  and  chilling 
skin,  usually  starts  the  contractions  of  the  diaphragm  at  once  and 
life  is  insured.  Among  the  obstacles  to  breathing  may  be  named 
suffocation  before  or  during  birth  from  compression  of  the  navel 
cord  and  the  arrest  of  its  circulation;  the  detachment  of  the  fetal 
membranes  from  the  womb  before  the  calf  is  born;  a  too  free  com- 
munication between  the  two  auricles  (foramen  ovale)  of  the  heart 
by  which  the  nonaerated  blood  has  mixed  too  abundantly  with  the 
aerated  and  induced  debility  and  profound  weakness;  a  condition  of 
ill  health  and  debility  of  the  calf  as  a  result  of  semistarvation,  over- 
work, or  disease  of  the  cow;  fainting  in  the  debilitated  calf  when 
calving  has  been  difficult  and  prolonged;  the  birth  of  the  calf  w^ith 
its  head  enveloped  in  the  fetal  membranes,  so  that  it  has  been  unable 
to  breathe,  and  the  presence  of  tenacious  phlegm  in  the  mouth  and 
nose,  acting  in  the  same  manner. 

Besides  the  importance  of  proper  care  and  feeding  of  the  cow  as 
a  preventive  measure,  attention  should  be  given  at  once  to  relieve  the 
newborn  calf  of  its  investing  membrane  and  of  any  mucus  that  has 
collected  in  mouth  or  nostrils.  Wiping  out  the  nose  deeply  with  a 
finger  or  feather  excites  to  sneezing,  hence  to  breathing.  Blowing 
into  the  nose  has  a  similar  effect.  Sucking  the  nostril  through  a  tube 
applied  to  it  is  even  more  effective.  Slapping  the  chest  with  the  palm 
of  the  hand  or  with  a  towel  dipped  in  cold  water,  compression  and 
relaxation  alternately  of  the  walls  of  the  chest,  may  start  the  action, 
and  ammonia  or  even  tobacco  smoke  blown  into  the  nose  may  suffice. 
Every  second  is  precious,  however,  and  if  possible  the  lungs  should 
be  dilated  by  forcibly  introducing  air  from  a  bellows  or  from  the 
human  lungs.  As  the  air  is  blown  in  through  bellows  or  a  tube  the 
upper  end  of  the  windpipe  must  be  pressed  back  against  the  gullet, 
as  otherwise  the  air  will  go  to  the  stomach.     In  a  large  dairy  a  piece 

245 


246  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

of  elastic  tubing  one-third  of  an  inch  in  bore  should  be  kept  at  hand 
for  sucking  and  blowing  in  such  cases. 

BLEEDING  FROM  THE  NAVEL. 

This  may  occur  in  two  conditions — when  the  cord  is  cut  off  too 
close  to  the  navel  and  left  untied  and  when  it  tears  off  at  the  navel. 
(PI.  XIV.)  It  may  also  bleed  when  torn  across  naturally,  if  it  is 
sucked  by  the  dam  or  another  calf.  In  an  animal  with  little  plasticity 
to  its  blood  it  will  flow  under  almost  any  circumstances.  When 
any  cord  is  left  it  is  always  safe  to  tie  it,  and  it  is  only  when  it  is 
swollen  and  may  possibly  contain  a  loop  of  the  bowel  that  there  is 
danger  in  doing  so.  By  pressing  upward  any  bulky  contents  such 
danger  is  avoided.  If  torn  or  cut  too  close  to  be  tied  the  bleeding 
may  be  checked  by  applying  alum,  copperas,  or  for  a  fraction  of  a 
second  the  end  of  an  iron  rod  at  a  dull-red  heat.  If  much  blood  has 
been  lost  it  may  be  requisite  to  transfuse  several  ounces  of  blood  or 
of  a  weak,  common-salt  solution  into  the  open,  umbilical  vein. 

URINE  DISCHARGED  THROUGH  THE  NAVEL   (PERSISTENT 

URACHUS). 

Before  birth  the  urine  passes  from  the  bladder  by  a  special  tube 
through  the  navel  and  navel  string  into  the  outer  water  bag  (allan- 
tois).  (PI.  XII.)  This  closes  at  birth,  and  the  tube  shrinks  into  a 
fine  cord  up  to  the  bladder.  It  is  only  in  the  bull  calf  that  it  is  liable 
to  remain  open,  doubtless  because  of  the  long,  narrow  channel  through 
which  the  urine  must  otherwise  escape.  The  urethra,  too,  is  some- 
times abnormally  narrow,  or  even  closed,  in  the  male.  If  part  of  the 
cord  remains,  it  should  be  tied  and  the  whole  allowed  to  wither  up 
naturally.  If  the  cord  has  been  removed  and  the  tube  (urachus) 
protrudes,  discharging  the  urine,  that  alone  must  be  tied.  If  there  is 
nothing  pendent  the  urachus  must  be  seized,  covered  by  the  skin, 
and  a  curved  needle  being  passed  through  the  skin  and  above  the 
duct,  it  may  be  tied  along  with  this  skin.  A  blister  of  Spanish  flies, 
causing  swelling  of  the  skin,  will  often  close  the  orifice — so  with  the 
hot  iron.  If  the  urethra  of  the  male  is  impervious  it  can  rarely  be 
remedied. 

INFLAMMATION  OF  THE  URACHUS  (NAVEL  URINE  DUCT). 

This  may  originate  in  direct,  mechanical  injury  to  the  navel  in 
calving,  or  shortly  after,  with  or  without  the  lodgment  of  irritant  or 
septic  matter  on  its  lacerated  or  cut  end.  The  mere  contact  with 
healthy  urine,  hitherto  harmless,  can  now  be  looked  on  as  becoming 
suddenly  irritating.  The  affection  is  usually  marked  by  the  presence 
of  redness  and  swelling  at  the  posterior  part  of  the  navel  and  the 


DISEASES    OF    YOUNG    CALVES.  247 

escape  of  urine  and  a  few  drops  of  whitish,  serous  pus  from  the  ori- 
fice of  the  urachus.  In  those  cases  in  which  urine  is  not  discharged 
a  tender  swelling,  like  a  thick  cord  extending  upward  and  backward 
from  the  navel  into  the  abdomen,  may  be  identified.  The  navel 
enlargement  may  be  considerable,  but  it  is  solid,  does  not  gurgle  on 
handling,  and  can  not  be  done  away  with  by  pressing  it  back  into  the 
abdomen,  as  in  a  case  of  hernia. 

In  cases  at  first  closed  the  pus  may  burst  out  later,  coming  from 
the  back  part  of  the  navel  and  the  swelling  extending  backward.  In 
other  cases  wdiitish  pus  may  pass  with  the  urine  by  the  ordinary  chan- 
nel, showing  that  it  has  opened  back  into  the  bladder.  In  other  cases 
the  umbilical  veins  become  involved,  in  w^hich  case  the  swelling  ex- 
tends forward  as  well  as  backward.  Thus  the  disease  may  result  in 
destructive  disorders  of  the  liver,  lungs,  and,  above  all,  of  the  joints. 

The  disease  may  usually  be  warded  off  or  rendered  simple  and  com- 
paratively harmless  by  applying  antiseptics  to  the  navel  string  at 
birth  (carbolic  acid  1  part,  water  and  glycerin  5  parts  each,  or  w^ood 
tar).  Later,  antiseptics  may  be  freely  used  (hyposulphite  of  soda  4 
drams,  water  1  quart)  as  an  application  to  the  surface  and  as  an 
injection  into  the  urachus,  or  even  into  the  bladder  if  the  two  still 
communicate.  If  they  no  longer  communicate,  a  stronger  injection 
may  be  used  (tincture  of  chlorid  of  iron  60  drops,  alcohol  1  ounce). 
Several  weeks  will  be  required  for  complete  recovery. 

ABSCESS  OF  THE  NAVEL. 

As  the  result  of  irritation  at  calving  or  by  the  withered  cord,  or  by 
licking  witn  the  rough  tongue  of  the  cow,  inflammation  may  attack 
the  loose  connective  tissue  of  the  navel  to  the  exclusion  of  the  urachus 
and  veins,  and  go  on  to  the  formation  of  matter.  In  this  case  a  firm 
swelling  appears  as  large  as  the  fist,  which  softens  in  the  center  and 
may  finally  burst  and  discharge.  The  opening,  however,  is  usually 
small  and  may  close  prematurely,  so  that  abscess  after  abscess  is 
formed.  It  is  distinguished  from  hernia  by  the  fact  that  it  can  not 
be  returned  into  the  abdomen,  and  from  inflammations  of  the  veins 
and  urachus  by  the  absence  of  swellings  forward  and  backward  along 
the  lines  of  these  canals. 

Treatment  consists  in  an  early  opening  of  the  abscess  by  a  free 
incision  and  the  injection  twice  a  da}''  of  an  astringent  antiseptic 
(chlorid  of  zinc  one-half  dram,  water  1  pint). 

INFLAMMATION  OF  THE  NAVEL  VEINS  (UMBILICAL  PHLEBITIS). 

In  this  affection  of  the  navel  the  inflammation  may  start  directly 
from  mechanical  injury,  as  in  either  of  the  two  forms  just  described, 
but  on  this  are  inoculated  infective  microbes,  derived  from  a  retained 
and  putrefying  afterbirth,  an  abortion,  a  metritis,  a  fetid  discharge 


248  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

from  the  womb,  an  unhealthy  open  sore,  a  case  of  erysipelas,  from 
overcrowding,  from  filthy  floor  or  bedding,  or  from  an  offensive 
accumulation  of  manure,  solid  or  liquid.  As  the  microbes  vary  in 
different  cases,  given  outbreaks  will  differ  materially  in  their  nature. 
One  is  erysipelatoid ;  another  purulent  infection  with  the  tendency  to 
secondary  abscesses  in  the  joints,  liver,  lungs,  etc. ;  another  is  from 
a  septic  germ  and  is  associated  with  fetid  discharge  from  the  navel 
and  general  putrid  blood  poisoning.  In  estimating  the  causes  of  the 
disease  we  must  not  omit  debility  of  the  calf  when  the  mother  has 
been  underfed  or  badly  housed  or  when  either  she  or  the  fetus  has 
been  diseased. 

Symptoms. — The  symptoms  vary.  With  the  chain-form  germs 
(streptococci)  the  navel  becomes  intensely  red,  with  a  very  firm, 
painful  swelling,  ending  abruptly  at  the  edges  in  sound  skin  and 
extending  forward  along  the  umbilical  veins.  The  secondary  dis- 
eases are  circumscribed,  black  engorgements  (infarctions)  or  ab- 
scesses of  the  liver,  lungs,  kidneys,  bowels,  or  other  internal  organs, 
and  sometimes  disease  of  the  joints. 

With  the  ordinary  pus-producing  germs  {Staphylococcus  pyog- 
enes aureus  and  Streptococcus  pyogenes)  the  local  inflammation  in 
the  navel  causes  a  hot,  painful  swelling,  which  rapidly  advances  to 
the  formation  of  matter  (pus),  and  the  raw,  exposed  surface,  at  first 
bright  red,  becomes  dark  red  or  black,  soft,  friable,  and  pultaceous. 
If  the  pus  is  white,  creamy,  and  comparatively  inoffensive  in  odor, 
the  secondary  formations  in  internal  organs-  and  joints  are  mainly 
of  the  same  purulent  character  (secondary  abscesses). 

If,  on  the  other  hand,  the  discharge  is  very  offensive  and  the  pus 
more  serous,  watery,  or  bloody,  there  is  reason  to  suspect  the  pres- 
ence of  some  of  the  septic  bacteria,  and  the  results  on  the  general 
system  are  a  high  fever  and  softening  of  the  liver  and  spleen  and  no 
tendency  to  abscesses  of  the  internal  organs.  Diarrhea  is  a  common 
symptom,  and  death  ensues  early,  the  blood  after  death  being  found 
unclotted. 

Complicated  cases  are  common,  and  in  all  alike  the  umbilical  veins 
usually  remain  open  and  can  be  explored  by  a  probe  passed  at  first 
upward  and  then  forward  toward  the  liver. 

Prevention  is  sought  by  applying  a  lotion  of  carbolic  acid  or  iodin 
solution  to  the  navel  string  at  birth,  or  it  may  be  smeared  with  com- 
mon wood  tar,  which  is  at  once  antiseptic  and  a  protective  coA^ering 
against  germs.  In  the  absence  of  either  a  strong  decoction  of  oak 
bark  may  be  used. 

Local  treatment  consists  in  the  application  of  antiseptic  to  the  sur- 
face and  their  injection  into  the  vein.  As  a  lotion  carbolic  acid,  1 
ounce  in  a  quart  of  strong  decoction  of  oak  bark,  should  be  used,  or 
salicylic  acid  or  salol  may  be  sprinkled  on  the  surface.    The  interior 


DISEASES    OF    YOUNG    CALVES.  249 

of  the  vein  should  be  swabbed  out  with  a  probe  wrapped  around 
with  cotton  wool  and  dipped  in  boracic  salicylic  acid. 

If  complications  have  extended  to  the  liver  or  other  internal 
organs,  or  the  joints,  other  treatment  will  be  demanded.  In  acute 
cases  of  general  infection  an  early  fatal  result  is  to  be  expected. 

PYEMIC  AND  SEPTICEMIC  INFLAMMATION  OF  JOINTS  IN  CALVES 

(JOINT  ILL). 

This  occurs  in  young  calves  within  the  first  month  after  birth.  It 
persists  in  the  joints  when  once  attacked,  and  is  usually  connected 
with  disease  of  the  navel.  Rheumatism,  on  the  other  hand,  rarely 
occurs  in  a  calf  under  a  month  old.  It  tends  to  shift  from  joint  to 
joint,  and  is  independent  of  any  navel  disease.  Again,  it  affects  the 
fibrous  structures  of  the  joints,  and  rarely  results  in  the  formation 
of  white  matter,  while  the  affection  before  named  attacks  the  struc- 
tures outside  as  well  as  inside  the  joints  and,  above  all,  the  ends  of 
the  bones,  and  tends  to  the  destruction  and  crumbling  of  their 
tissue,  and  even  to  the  formation  of  open  sores,  through  which  the 
fragile  bones  are  exposed.  The  microbes  from  the  unhealthy  and 
infected  wound  in  the  navel  pass  into  the  system  through  the  veins, 
or  lymphatics,  and  form  colonies  and  local  inflammations  and  ab- 
scesses in  and  around  the  joints. 

Symptoms. — The  symptoms  are  the  swelling  of  one  or  more  joints, 
which  are  very  hot  and  tender.  The  calf  is  stiff  and  lame,  lies  down 
constantly,  and  does  not  care  to  suck.  There  is  very  high  fever, 
accelerated  breathing  and  pulse,  and  there  is  swelling  and  purulent 
discharge  (often  fetid)  from  the  navel.  There  may  be  added 
symptoms  of  disease  of  the  liver,  lungs,  heart,  or  bowels,  on  which 
we  need  not  here  delay.  The  important  point  is  to  determine  the 
condition  of  the  navel  in  all  such  cases  of  diseased  and  swollen 
joints  beginning  in  the  first  month  of  life,  and  in  all  cases  of  general 
stiffness,  for  besides  the  diseases  of  the  internal  organs  there  may  be 
abscesses  formed  among  the  muscles  of  the  trunk,  though  the  joints 
appear  sound.  Cases  of  this  kind,  if  they  do  not  speedily  die,  tend 
to  become  emaciated  and  perish  later  in  a  state  of  weakness  and 
exhaustion. 

Prevention. — Prevention  must  begin  with  the  purity  of  the  build- 
ings and  the  navel,  as  noted  in  the  last  article. 

Treatment, — Treatment  is  in  the  main  antiseptic.  The  slighter 
forms  may  be  painted  daily  with  tincture  of  iodin,  or  an  ointment  of 
biniodid  of  mercury  (1  dram)  and  lard  (2  ounces)  may  be  rubbed  on 
the  affected  joints  daily  until  they  are  blistered.  In  case  of  swellings 
containing  matter,  this  may  be  drawn  through  the  nozzle  of  a  hypo- 
dermic syringe  and  the  following  solution  injected :  Compound  tinc- 
ture of  iodin,  1  dram;  distilled  (or  boiled)  water,  2  ounces.     Inter- 


250  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

nally  the  calf  may  take  5  grains  qiiinin  twice  daily  and  15  grains 
hyposulphite  of  soda,  or  20  grains  salicylate  of  soda  three  times 
a  day. 

UMBILICAL   HERNIA    (BREACH   AT   THE   NAVEL). 

This  may  exist  at  birth  from  imperfect  closure  of  the  muscles 
around  the  opening;  it  may  even  extend  backward  for  a  distance, 
from  the  two  sides  failing  to  come  together.  Apart  from  this,  the 
trouble  rarely  appears  after  the  calf  has  been  some  time  on  solid 
feed,  as  the  paunch  then  extends  down  to  the  right  immediately 
OA^er  the  navel,  and  thus  forms  an  internal  pad,  preventing  the 
protrusion  of  intestine. 

Symptoins. — The  symptoms  of  umbilical  hernia  are  a  soft  swelling 
at  the  navel,  with  contents  that  usually  gurgle  on  handling,  and  can 
be  entirely  returned  into  the  abdomen  by  pressure.  The  diseases  of 
the  navel  hitherto  considered  have  not  gurgling  contents  and  can 
not  be  completely  returned  into  the  abdomen.  The  only  exception 
in  the  case  of  the  hernia  is  when  the  walls  of  the  sac  have  become 
greatly  thickened.  These  will,  of  course,  remain  as  a  swelling  after 
the  bowel  has  been  returned;  and  when  the  protruding  bowel  has 
contracted  permanent  adhesion  to  the  sac,  it  is  impossible  to  return 
it  fully  without  first  severing  that  connection. 

Treatment. — Treatment  is  not  always  necessary.  A  small  hernia, 
like  an  ^gg.,  in  a  new-born  calf,  usually  recovers  of  itself  as  the 
animal  changes  its  diet  to  solid  feed  and  has  the  paunch  fully 
developed  as  an  internal  pad. 

In  other  cases  apply  a  leather  pad  8  inches  square  attached  around 
the  body  by  two  elastic  bands  connected  w^ith  its  four  corners,  and 
an  elastic  band  passing  from  its  front  border  to  a  collar  encircling 
the  neck,  and  two  other  elastic  bands  from  the  neck  collar  along  the 
two  sides  of  the  body  to  the  two  bands  passing  up  over  the  back. 
(PI.  XXIV,  fig.  6.) 

For  small  hernias  nitric  acid  may  be  used  to  destroy  the  skin  and 
cause  such  swelling  as  to  close  the  orifice  before  the  skin  is  sepa- 
rated. For  a  mass  like  a  large  goose  egg  one-half  ounce  of  the  acid 
may  be  rubbed  in  for  three  minutes.  No  more  must  be  applied  for 
15  days.  For  large  masses  this  is  inapplicable,  and  wdth  too  much 
loss  of  skin  the  orifice  may  fail  to  close  and  the  bowels  may  escape. 

The  application  of  a  clamp  like  those  used  in  castration  is  a  most 
effective  method,  but  great  care  must  be  taken  to  see  that  all  the 
contents  of  the  sac  are  returned  so  that  none  may  be  inclosed  in  the 
clamp.     (PI.  XXIV,  fig.  7.) 

Another  most  effective  resort  is  to  mak-e  a  saturated  solution  of  com- 
mon salt,  filter  and  boil  it,  and  when  cool  inject  under  the  skin  (not 
into  the  sac)  on  each  side  of  the  hernia  a  dram  of  the  fluid.    A  band- 


DISEASES    OF    YOUNG    CALVES.  251 

age  may  then  be  put  around  the  body.  In  10  hours  an  enormous 
swelling  will  have  taken  place,  pressing  back  the  bowel  into  the  abdo- 
men.    When  this  subsides  the  wound  will  have  closed. 

DROPSY  OF  THE  NAVEL. 

A  sac  formed  at  the  navel,  by  contained  liquid  accumulated  by  rea- 
son of  sucking  by  other  calves,  is  unsightly  and  sometimes  injurious. 
After  making  sure  that  it  is  simply  a  dropsical  collection  it  may  be 
deeply  punctured  at  A'arious  points  with  a  large-sized  lancet  or  knife, 
fomented  with  hot  water,  and  then  daily  treated  with  a  strong  decoc- 
tion of  white-oak  bark. 

BLUE  DISEASE  (CYANOSIS). 

This  appearing  in  the  calf  at  birth  is  due  to  the  orifice  between  the 
two  auricles  of  the  heart  ( foramen  ovale )  remaining  too  open,  allow- 
ing the  nonaerated  (venous)  blood  to  mix  with  the  aerated  (arterial) 
blood,  and  it  is  beyond  the  reach  of  treatment.  It  is  recognized  by 
the  blueness  of  the  eyes,  nose,  mouth,  and  other  mucous  membranes, 
the  coldness  of  the  surface,  and  the  extreme  sensitiveness  to  cold. 

CONSTIPATION. 

At  birth  the  bowels  of  the  calf  contain  the  meconium,  a  tenacious, 
gluey,  brownish-yellow  material  largely  derived  from  the  liver,  which 
must  be  expelled  before  they  can  start  their  functions  normally. 
The  first  milk  of  the  cow  (colostrum,  beestings),  rich  in  albumin  and 
salts,  is  nature's  laxative  to  expel  this  now  offensive  material  and 
should  never  be  withheld  from  the  calf.  If,  for  lack  of  this,  from  the 
dry  feeding  of  the  cow,  or  from  any  other  cause,  the  calf  is  costive, 
straining  violently  without  passage,  lying  down  and  rising  as  in  colic, 
and  failing  in  appetite,  no  time  should  be  lost  in  giving  relief  by  an 
ounce  dose  of  castor  oil,  assisting  its  action  by  injections  of  soapsuds 
or  oil.  Whatever  meconium  is  within  reach  of  the  finger  should  be 
carefully  removed.  It  is  also  important  to  give  the  cow  a  sloppy, 
laxative  diet. 

INDIGESTION. 

This  may  occur  from  many  different  causes,  as  costiveness;  a  too 
liberal  supply  of  milk ;  milk  too  rich ;  the  furnishing  of  the  milk  of  a 
cow  long  after  calving  to  a  very  young  calf ;  allowing  a  calf  to  suck 
the  first  milk  of  a  cow  that  has  been  hunted,  driven  by  road,  shipped 
by  rail,  or  otherwise  violently  excited ;  allowing  the  calf  too  long  time 
between  meals,  so  that  impelled  by  hunger  it  quickly  overloads  and 
clogs  the  stomach ;  feedmg  from  the  pail  milk  that  has  been  held  over 
in  unwashed  (unscalded)  buckets,  so  that  it  is  fermented  and  spoiled; 
feeding  the  milk  of  cows  kept  on  unwholesome  feed;  keeping  the 


252  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

calves  in  cold,  damp,  dark,  filthy,  or  bad-smelling  pens;  feeding  the 
calves  on  artificial  mixtures  containing  too  much  starchy  matter ;  or 
overfeeding  the  calves  on  artificial  feed  that  may  be  appropriate 
enough  in  smaller  quantity.  The  licking  of  hair  from  themselves  or 
others  and  its  formation  into  balls  in  the  stomach  will  cause  obstinate 
indigestion  in  the  calf. 

Symptoms. — The  symptoms  are  dullness,  indisposition  to  move, 
uneasiness,  eructations  of  gas  from  the  stomach,  sour  breath,  entire 
loss  of  appetite,  lying  down  and  rising  as  if  in  pain,  fullness  of  the 
abdomen,  which  gives  out  a  drumlike  sound  when  tapped  with  the 
fingers. 

The  costiveness  may  be  marked  at  first,  but  soon  it  gives  place  to 
diarrhea,  by  which  the  offensive  matters  may  be  carried  off  and  health 
restored.  In  other  cases  it  becomes  aggravated,  merges  into  inflam- 
mation of  the  bowels,  fever  sets  in,  and  the  calf  gradually  sinks. 

Prevention. — Prevention  consists  in  avoiding  the  causes  enumer- 
ated above  or  any  others  that  may  be  detected. 

Treatmenf. — Treatment  consists  in  first  clearing  away  the  irritant 
present  in  the  bowels.  For  this  purpose  1  or  2  ounces  of  castor  oil 
with  20  drops  of  laudanum  may  be  given,  and  if  the  sour  eructa- 
tions are  marked  a  tablespoonful  of  limewater  or  one-fourth  ounce 
calcined  magnesia  may  be  given  and  repeated  two  or  three  times  a 
day.  If  the  disorder  continues  after  the  removal  of  the  irritant,  a 
large  tablespoonful  of  rennet,  or  30  grains  of  pepsin,  may  be  given 
at  each  meal  along  with  a  teaspoonful  of  tincture  of  gentian.  Any 
return  of  constipation  must  be  treated  by  injections  of  warm  water 
and  soap,  while  the  persistence  of  diarrhea  must  be  met  as  advised 
under  the  article  following  this.  In  case  of  the  formation  of  loose 
hair  balls  inclosing  milk  undergoing  putrid  fermentation,  temporary 
benefit  may  be  obtained  by  giving  a  tablespoonful  of  vegetable  char- 
coal three  or  four  times  a  day,  but  the  only  real  remedy  is  to  cut 
the  paunch  open  and  extract  them.  At  this  early  age  they  may  be 
found  in  the  third  or  even  the  fourth  stomach ;  in  the  adult  they  are 
confined  to  the  first  two  and  are  comparatively  harmless. 

DIARRHEA  (SCOURING)  IN  CALVES  (SIMPLE  AND  CONTAGIOUS). 

Ar  stated  in  the  last  article,  scouring  is  a  common  result  of  indi- 
gestion, and  at  first  may  be  nothing  more  than  an  attempt  of  nature 
to  relieve  the  stomach  and  bowels  of  offensive  and  irritating  contents. 
As  the  indigestion  persists,  however,  the  fermentations  going  on  in 
the  imdigested  masses  become  steadily  more  complex  and  active,  and 
what  was  at  first  the  mere  result  of  irritation  or  suspended  digestion 
comes  to  be  a  genuine  contagious  disease,  in  which  the  organized  fer- 
ments (bacteria)  propagate  the  affection  from  animal  to  animal  and 


DISEASES    OF    YOUNG    CALVES.  253 

from  herd  to  herd.  More  than  once  I  have  seen  such  epizootic  diar- 
rhea start  on  the  headwaters  of  a  creek  and,  traveling  along  that 
stream,  follow  the  watershed  and  attack  the  herds  supplied  with 
water  from  the  contaminated  channel.  In  the  same  way  the  disease, 
once  started  in  a  cow  stable,  is  liable  to  persist  for  years,  or  until 
the  building  has  been  thoroughly  cleansed  and  disinfected.  It  may 
be  carried  into  a  healthy  stable  by  the  introduction  of  a  cow  brought 
from  an  infected  stable  when  she  is  closely  approaching  calving. 
Another  method  of  its  introduction  is  by  the  purchase  of  a  calf  from 
a  herd  where  the  infection  exists. 

In  enumerating  the  other  causes  of  this  disease  we  may  refer  to 
those  noted  above  as  inducing  indigestion.  As  a  primary  considera- 
tion any  condition  which  lowers  the  vitality  or  vigor  of  the  calf  must 
be  accorded  a  prominent  place  among  factors  which,  apart  from  con- 
tagion, contribute  to  start  the  disease  de  novo.  Other  things  being 
equal,  the  strong,  vigorous  races  are  the  least  predisposed  to  the 
malady,  and  in  this  respect  the  compact  form,  the  healthy  coat,  the 
clear  eye,  and  the  bold,  active  carriage  are  desirable.  Even  the  color 
of  the  hair  is  not  unimportant,  as  in  the  same  herd  I  have  found  a 
far  greater  number  of  victims  among  the  light  colors  (light  yellow, 
light  brown)  than  among  those  of  a  darker  tint.  This  constitutional 
predisposition  to  indigestion  and  diarrhea  is  sometimes  fostered  by 
too  close  breeding,  without  taking  due  account  of  the  maintenance 
of  a  robust  constitution;  hence  animals  that  are  very  much  inbred 
need  to  be  especially  observed  and  cared  for  unless  their  inherent 
vigor  has  been  thoroughly  attested. 

The  surroundings  of  the  calf  are  powerful  influences.  Calves  kept 
indoors  suffer  to  a  greater  extent  than  those  running  in  the  open  air 
and  having  the  invigorating  influences  of  sunshine,  pure  air,  and 
exercise ;  close,  crowded,  filthy,  bad-smelling  buildings  are  especially 
causative  of  the  complaint.  The  presence  in  the  air  of  carbon  dioxid, 
the  product  of  breathing,  and  of  the  fetid,  gaseous  products  of  decom- 
posing dung  and  urine  diminish  by  about  one- fourth  of  their  volume 
the  life-giving  oxygen  and  in  the  same  ratio  hinder  the  aeration  of 
the  blood  and  the  maintenance  of  vigorous  health.  Worse  than  this, 
such  fetid  gases  are  usually  direct  poisons  to  the  animal  breathing 
them;  for  example,  sulphureted  hydrogen  (hydrogen  sulphid  2  SHj) 
and  various  alkaloids  (ptomaines)  and  toxins  (neutral  poisonous 
principles)  produced  in  the  filth  fermentations.  These  lower  the 
general  health  and  stamina,  impair  digestion,  and  by  leading  to  the 
accumulation  in  stomach  and  bowels  of  undigested  materials  they 
lay  the  foundation  for  offensive  fermentations  within  these  organs 
and  consequent  irritation,  poisoning,  and  diarrhea.  They  further 
weaken  the  system  so  that  it  can  no  longer  resist  and  overcome  the 
trouble. 


254 


DISEASES  OF   CATTLE. 


The  condition  of  the  nursing  cow  and  her  milk  is  another  potent 
cause  of  trouble.  The  feed  of  the  cow  is  important.  The  influence 
of  this  is  shown  in  the  f ollowinff  tables : 


Influence  of  feed  on  milk.     {From  Becquerel  and  Vernois.) 


Casein 

Character  of  feed. 

Water. 

and  ex- 
tractive 
matter. 

Milk 

sugar. 

Butter. 

Salts. 

Cows  on  winter  feed: 

Parts  in 

Parts  in 

Parts  in 

Parts  in 

Parts  in 

Trefoil  or  lucem,   12-13   pounds;  oat  straw,   9-10 

1,000. 

1,000. 

1,000. 

1,000. 

1,000. 

pounds;  beets,  7  pounds;  water,  2  buckets 

871.26 

47.81 

33.47 

42.07 

5.34 

Cows  on  summer  feed: 

Green  trefoil,  lucem,  maize,  barley,  grass,  2  buckets 
water        

859.56 

54.70 

36.38 

42.76 

6.80 

Goat's  milk  on  different  feed: 

858.68 
888.77 
844.90 

47.38 
33.81 
35.14 

35.47 
38.02 
36.90 

52.54 
33.68 
56.87 

5.93 

5.72 

Normal  mean            

6.18 

In  these  examples  the  deterioration  of  the  milk  in  casein  on  the  less 
nutritious  winter  feeding  is  very  marked,  although  the  relative 
quantity  of  butter  remains  almost  unchanged.  In  the  case  of  the  goat 
the  result  is  even  more  striking,  the  beet  diet  giving  a  very  large 
decrease  of  both  casein  and  butter  and  an  increase  of  milk  sugar. 

The  second  table  following,  condensed  from  the  Iowa  Agricultural 
Experiment  Station  Bulletin,  giA'es  the  results  in  butter  and  total 
solids  when  the  same  cows  were  fed  on  different  rations  in  succession. 
Each  cow  was  fed  a  daily  ration  of  12  pounds  corn  fodder  and  4  pounds 
clover  hay,  besides  the  test  diet  of  (1)  12^  pounds  corn-and-cob  meal, 
and  (2)  10  pounds  sugar  meal — a  product  of  the  glocuse  manufac- 
ture. This  special  feed  was  given  seven  days  before  the  commence- 
ment of  each  test  period  to  obviate  the  effects  of  transition.  The 
analyses  of  the  special  rations  are  given  below : 

Analyses  of  special  rations. 


Constituents. 


Moisture 

Sails 

Fat 

Carbohydrates  (heat  formers) 

Woody  fiber 

Proteids  (flesh  formers) 


Corn-and- 
cob  meal. 

Sugar 
meal. 

Per  cent. 

Per  cent. 

13.37 

6.10 

1.43 

1.17 

2.81 

11.16 

65.99 

52.60 

8.03 

8.64 

8.37 

20.27 

The  great  excess  of  fat  and  nitrogenous  or  flesh-forming  principles 
in  the  sugar  meal  is  very  evident. 


DISEASES    OF    YOUNG    CALVES. 
Infliietwe  of  feed  on  milk.     (Iowa  station.) 


255 


Animal. 

Milk. 

Fat. 

Solids. 

Fat. 

Solids. 

■Ratio  of  fat 
to  solids  not 

fat. 

Grade  Shorthorn  cow: 

Pounds. 

P.cf. 

Per  ct. 

Pounds. 

Pounds. 

First  period,  21  days,  corn-and-cob  meal 

631. 25 

3.43 

11.57 

21.67 

73.02 

422.0:1,000 

Second  period,  21  days,  sugar  meal 

641. 50 

4.04 

12. 53 

25.93 

83.38 

476.2:1,000 

Thiid  period,  21  days,  cora-and-cob  meal... 

559. 00 

3.22 

11. 86 

17.97 

66.32 

371.7:1,000 

Grade  Shorthorn  cow: 

First  period,  21  days,  corn-and-cob  meal 

604.75 

3.57 

11.95 

21.56 

72.28 

425.1:1,000 

Second  period,  21  days,  sugar  meal 

582.00 

3.91 

12.37 

22.74 

72.57 

456.3:1,000 

Third  period,  21  days,  corn-and-cob  meal... 

527. 00 

3.37 

12.05 

17.78 

63.48 

389.1:1,000 

Grade  Shorthorn  cow: 

First  period,  21  days,  sugar  meal 

753. 50 

3.97 

12.43 

29.94 

93.67 

469.8:1,000 
380.0:1,000 

Second  period,  21  days,  corn-and-cob  meal.. 

601.50 

3.15 

11.45 

18.97 

68.89 

Third  period,  21  days,  sugar  meal 

5G0. 50 

3.85 

12.16 

21.58 

68.16 

463.3:1,000 

Grade  Holstein  cow: 

First  period,  21  days,  sugar  meal 

487. 50 

4.15 

13.27 

20.25 

64.69 

455.6:1,000 

Second  period,  21  days,  corn-and-cob  meal.. 

379.00 

3.51 

12.69 

13.30 

48.09 

382.3:1,000 

Third  period,  21  days,  sugar  meal 

374. 50 

3.72 

13. 01 

13.95 

48.74 

401.0:1,000 

Here  we  see  in  every  instance  a  marked  relative  increase  of  the  but- 
ter, and  to  a  less  extent  of  the  other  milk  solids  whenever  the  sugar 
meal — rich  in  fat  and  albuminoids^was  furnished.  The  opposite 
theory  having  been  largely  taught,  it  becomes  needful  thus  to  sustain 
the  old  and  well-founded  belief  of  the  dairymen. 

Not  only  does  the  richness  of  the  milk  vary  with  the  nature  of  the 
food,  but  it  varies  also  according  to  the  time  of  the  day  when  it  is 
drawn,  the  morning  milk  giving  7^  per  cent  of  cream  and  the  evening 
milk  9^  per  cent  (Hassall).  Boedecker  found  that  the  morning 
milk  had  10  per  cent  of  solids,  while  the  evening  milk  had  13  per  cent. 
Again,  the  milk  first  drawn  at  any  milking  is  always  poorer  than  the 
last,  drawn.  The  first  may  have  only  one-half,  or  in  extreme  cases 
one-fourth,  the  cream  of  the  last.  Once  more,  when  the  cow  is  in  heat 
the  milk  becomes  richer  in  solids  (casein  and  butter),  and  contains 
granular  and  white  blood  cells  like  the  colostrum,  and  often  disagrees 
with  the  young  animal  living  on  it.  Now,  while  these  various  modifi- 
cations in  the  amount  of  solid  matters  may  prove  harmless  to  a  strong 
and  vigorous  calf,  they  can  easily  be  the  occasion  of  intestinal  dis- 
order in  a  weaker  one,  or  in  one  with  health  already  somewhat  im- 
paired by  sickness,  exposure,  or  unwholesome  buildings.  The  casein 
of  the  cow's  milk  coagulates  in  one  solid  mass,  and  is  much  less  easily 
penetrated  by  the  digesting  fluids  than  the  fine,  flaky  coagula  of 
woman's  or  mare's  milk.  An  excess  of  casein,  therefore,  thrown  on 
an  already  overtaxed  stomach  can  all  the  more  readily  induce  dis- 
order. So  it  is  with  butter  fat.  "While  a  most  important  element  in 
nutrition,  it  may  be  present  in  the  stomach  in  such  quantity  as  to 
interfere  with  the  action  of  the  gastric  juice  on  the  casein,  and  with 


256  DISEASES  OF   CATTLE. 

the  interruption  of  the  natural  stomach  digestion  the  fats  themselves 
undergo  decomposition  with  the  production  of  offensive  and  irritat- 
ing fatty  acids. 

The  milk  of  the  very  young  ccw  is  usually  more  watery  than  that  of 
the  mature  animal,  and  that  of  the  old  cow  has  a  greater  liability  to 
become  acid.  It  varies  much  with  the  breed,  the  Channel  Island 
cattle  being  notorious  for  the  relatively  large  quantity  of  cream, 
while  the  Holsteins,  Ayrshires,  and  Shorthorns  are  remarkable  rather 
for  the  quantity  of  casein.  The  milk  of  cows  fed  on  potatoes  and  grass 
is  very  poor  and  watery ;  that  from  cows  fed  on  cabbage  or  Swedish 
turnips  has  a  disagreeable  taste  and  odor  (from  the  former  an  offen- 
sive liquid  has  been  distilled). 

Cows  fed  on  overkept,  fermen  ed,  and  soured  rations  have  acid 
milk,  which  readily  turns  and  coagulates.  Thus  old,  long-kept  brew- 
er's grains,  swill,  the  refuse  of  glucose  factories,  and  ensilage  which 
has  been  put  up  too  green  all  act  in  this  way.  The  same  may  come 
from  disease  in  the  cow's  udder,  or  any  general  disease  of  the  cow 
with  attendant  fever,  and  in  all  such  cases  the  tendency  is  to  rapid 
change  and  unwholesomeness.  If  the  milk  is  drawn  and  fed  from 
a  pail,  there  is  the  added  danger  of  all  sorts  of  poisonous  ferments 
getting  into  it  and  multiplying;  it  may  be  from  the  imperfect  cleans- 
ing and  scalding  of  the  pail ;  from  rinsing  the  pails  with  water  that 
is  impure;  from  the  entrance  of  bacterial  ferments  floating  in  the 
filthy  atmosphere  of  the  stable,  or  from  the  entrance  of  the  volatile 
chemical  products  of  fermentation. 

In  addition  to  the  dangers  coming  through  the  milk,  the  calf  suf- 
fers in  its  digestive  powers  from  any  temporary  illness,  and  among 
others  from  the  excitement  attendant  on  the  cutting  of  teeth,  and 
impaired  digestion  means  fermentations  in  the  undigested  masses 
and  the  excessive  production  of  poisonous  ptomaines  and  toxins. 

Whatever  may  be  the  starting  or  predisposing  cause  of  this  malady, 
when  once  established  it  is  liable  to  perpetuate  itself  by  contagion 
and  to  prove  a  veritable  plague  in  a  herd  or  a  district. 

Symptoms. — The  symptoms  of  a  diarrhea  may  ajopear  so  promptly 
after  birth  as  to  lead  to  the  idea  that  the  cause  already  existed  in  the 
body  of  the  calf,  and  it  usually  shows  itself  before  the  end  of  the 
second  week.  It  may  be  preceded  by  constipation,  as  in  retained 
meconium,  or  by  fetid  eructations  and  colicky  pains,  as  in  acute  indi- 
gestion. The  tail  is  stained  by  the  liquid  dejections,  which  are  at 
first  simply  soft  and  mixed  with  mucus  with  a  sour  odor,  accom- 
panied with  a  peculiar  and  characteristic  fetor  (suggesting  rotten 
cheese),  which  continually  grows  worse.  The  quantity  of  water  and 
mucus  steadily  increases,  the  normal  predominance  of  fatty  matters 
becoming  modified  by  the  presence  of  considerable  undigested  casein, 
which  is  not  present  in  the  normal  feces,  and  in  acute  cases  death 


DISEASES    OF   YOUNG   CALVES.  257 

may  result  in  one  or  two  da3^s  from  the  combined  drain  on  the  sys- 
tem and  the  poisoning  by  the  absorbed  products  of  the  decomposi- 
tion in  the  stomach  and  bowels.  When  the  case  is  prolonged  the 
passages,  at  first  5  or  6  a  day,  increase  to  15  or  20,  and  pass  with 
more  and  more  straining,  so  that  they  are  projected  from  the  animal 
in  a  liquid  stream.  The  color  of  the  feces,  at  first  yellow,  becomes  a 
lighter  gra^ash  yellow  or  a  dirty  white  (hence  the  name  white  scour), 
and  the  fetor  becomes  intolerable. 

At  first  the  calf  retains  its  appetite,  but  as  the  severity  of  the 
disease  increases  the  animals  shows  less  and  less  disposition  to  suck, 
and  has  lost  all  vivacity,  lying  dull  and  listless,  and,  when  raised, 
walking  weakly  and  unsteadily.  Flesh  is  lost  rapidly,  the  hair  stands 
erect,  the  skin  gets  dry  and  scurfy,  the  nose  is  dry  and  hot,  or  this 
condition  alternates  with  a  moist  and  cool  one.  By  this  time  the 
mouth  and  skin,  as  well  as  the  breath  and  dung,  exhale  the  peculiar, 
penetrating,  sour,  offensive  odor,  and  the  poor  calf  has  become  an 
object  of  disgust  to  all  that  approach  it.  At  first,  and  unless  inflam- 
mation of  the  stomach  and  bowels  supervene  (and  unless  the  affec- 
tion has  started  in  indigestion  and  colic),  the  belly  is  not  bloated  or 
painful  on  pressure,  symptoms  of  acute  colicky  pains  are  absent,  and 
the  bowels  do  not  rumble ;  neither  are  bubbles  of  gas  mingled  with 
the  feces.  The  irritant  products  of  the  intestinal  fermentations  may, 
hoAvever,  irritate  and  excoriate  the  skin  around  the  anus,  which 
becomes  red,  raw,  and  broken  out  in  sores  for  some  distance.  Simi- 
larly the  rectum,  exposed  by  reason  of  the  relaxed  condition  of  the 
anus,  or  temporarily  in  straining  to  pass  the  liquid  dejection,  is  of 
a  more  or  less  deep  red,  and  it  may  be  ulcerated.  Fever,  with  rapid 
pulse  and  increased  breathing  and  temperature,  usually  comes  on 
with  the  very  fetid  character  of  the  feces  and  is  more  pronounced 
as  the  bowels  become  inflamed,  the  abdomen  sore  to  the  touch  and 
tucked  up,  and  the  feces  more  watery  and  even  mixed  with  blood. 

Prevention. — The  prevention  of  these  cases  is  the  prevention  of 
constipation  and  indigestion,  with  all  their  varied  causes  as  above 
enumerated,  the  selection  of  a  strong,  vigorous  stock,  and,  above  all, 
the  combating  of  contagion,  especially  in  the  separation  of  the  sick 
from  the  healthy,  and  in  the  thorough  purification  and  disinfection 
of  the  buildings.  The  cleansing  and  sweetening  of  all  drains,  the 
removal  of  dung  heaps,  and  the  washing  and  scraping  of  floors  and 
W' alls,  followed  by  a  liberal  application  of  chlorid  of  lime  (bleaching 
powder),  4  ounces  to  the  gallon,  are  indicated.  Great  care  must  be 
exercised  in  the  feeding  of  the  cow  to  have  sound  and  wholesome 
feed  and  water,  so  apportioned  as  to  make  the  milk  neither  too  rich 
nor  too  poor,  and  to  her  health,  so  that  the  calf  may  be  saved  from 
the  evil  consequences  of  poisonous  principles  that  may  be  produced 
33071°— 16 17 


258  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

in  the  body  of  the  cow.  The  calves  should  be  carefully  kept  apart 
from  all  calving  cows  and  their  discharges.  Similarly  each  calf 
must  have  special  attention  to  see  that  its  nurse  gives  milk  which 
agrees  with  it,  and  that  this  is  furnished  at  suitable  times.  If  allowed 
to  suck,  it  should  either  be  left  with  the  cow  or  be  fed  three  times  a 
day.  If  it  becomes  hungry  twice  a  day,  it  is  more  liable  to  overload 
and  derange  the  stomach,  and  if  left  too  long  hungry  it  is  tempted 
to  take  in  unsuitable  and  unwholesome  feed,  for  which  its  stomach 
is  as  yet  unprepared.  So,  if  fed  from  the  pail,  it  is  safer  to  do  so 
three  times  daily  than  twice.  There  should  be  the  utmost  cleanliness 
of  feeding  dishes,  and  the  feeder  must  be  ever  on  the  alert  to  prevent 
the  strong  and  hungry  from  drinking  the  milk  of  the  weaker  in 
addition  to  their  own.  In  case  the  cow  nurse  has  been  subjected 
to  any  great  excitement  by  reason  of  travel,  hunting,  or  carrying, 
the  first  milk  she  yields  thereafter  should  be  used  for  some  other 
purpose  and  only  the  second  allowed  to  the  calf.  Indeed,  one  and 
all  of  the  conditions  indicated  above  as  causes  should  be  judiciously 
guarded  against. 

Treatment. — Treatment  varies  according  to  the  nature  and  stage 
of  the  disease.  When  the  disease  is  not  widespread,  but  isolated 
cases  only  occur,  it  may  be  assumed  to  be  a  simple  diarrhea  and  is 
easily  dealt  with.  The  first  object  is  to  remove  the  irritant  matter 
from  stomach  and  bowels,  and  for  this  1  or  2  ounces  of  castor  oil 
may  be  given,  according  to  the  size  of  the  calf.  Reduce  the  milk  b}' 
one-half  or  two-thirds.  If  the  stools  smell  particularly  sour,  the  milk 
may  be  replaced  by  1  ounce  calcined  magnesia,  and  in  any  case  a 
tablespoonful  or  two  of  limewater  must  be  given  with  each  meal. 
Great  harm  is  often  done  by  giving  opium  and  astringents  at  the 
outset.  These  serve  merely  to  bind  up  the  bowels  and  retain  the  irri- 
tant source  of  the  trouble ;  literally,  "  to  shut  up  the  wolf  in  the  sheep- 
fold."  When  the  offending  agents  have  been  expelled  in  this  way, 
carminatives  and  demulcent  agents  may  be  given — 1  dram  of  anise 
water,  1  dram  nitrate  of  bismuth,  and  1  dram  of  gum  arable,  three 
times  a  day.  Under  such  course  the  consistency  of  the  stools  should 
increase  until  in  a  day  or  two  they  become  natural. 

If,  however,  the  outbreak  is  more  general  and  evidently  the  result 
of  contagion,  the  first  consideration  is  to  remove  all  sources  of  such 
contamination.  Test  the  milk  of  the  cow  with  blue  litmus  paper; 
if  it  reddens,  reject  the  milk  until  by  sound,  dry  feeding,  with  per- 
haps a  course  of  hyposulphite  of  soda  and  gentian  root,  the  milk  is 
made  alkaline.  The  castor  oil  or  magnesia  will  be  demanded  to  clear 
away  the  (now  infecting)  irritants,  but  they  should  be  combined  with 
antiseptics,  and,  while  the  limewater  and  the  carminative  mixture 
may  still  be  used,  a  most  valuable  addition  will  be  found  in  the 


DISEASES    OF    YOUNG    CALVES.  259 

following:  Calomel,  10  grains;  prepared  chalk,  1  ounce;  creosote,  1 
teaspoonf ul ;  mix,  divide  into  10  parts,  and  give  one  four  times  a  day. 
Or  the  following  may  be  given  four  times  a  day :  One  dram  Dover's 
powder,  6  grains  powdered  ipecacuanha ;  mix,  divide  into  10  equal 
parts.  Injections  of  solutions  of  gum  arable  are  often  useful,  and  if 
the  anus  is  red  and  excoriated,  one-half  dram  of  copperas  may  be 
added  to  each  pint  of  the  gummy  solution.  All  the  milk  given  must 
be  boiled,  and  if  that  does  not  agree,  eggs  made  into  an  emulsion 
with  barley  water  may  be  substituted.  Small  doses  (tablespoonful) 
of  port  wine  are  often  useful  from  the  first,  and  as  the  feces  lose 
their  watery  character  and  become  more  consistent,  tincture  of  gen- 
tian in  doses  of  2  teaspoonfuls  may  be  given  three  or  four  times  a 
day.  Counterirritants,  such  as  mustard,  ammonia,  or  oil  of  turpen- 
tine, may  be  rubbed  on  the  abdomen  when  it  becomes  tender  to  the 
touch. 

ACUTE   CONTAGIOUS   SCOURING   IN  THE   NEWBORN. 

The  most  violent  and  deadly  form  of  diarrhea  in  the  newborn  calf 
deserves  a  special  mention.  This  may  appear  immediately  after 
birth,  and  shows  itself  almost  invariably  within  the  first  or  second 
day.  The  most  intense  symptoms  of  white  scour  are  complicated  by 
great  dullness,  weakness,  and  prostration,  sunken  eyes,  retracted 
belly,  short,  hurried  breathing,  and  very  low  temperature,  the  calf 
lying  on  its  side,  with  the  head  resting  on  the  ground,  lethargic  and 
unconscious  or  regardless  of  all  around  it.  The  bowel  discharges 
are  profuse,  yellowish  white,  and  very  ojffensive.  As  a  rule  death 
ensues  within  24  to  36  hours. 

A  marked  characteristic  of  this  form  of  illness  is  that  it  attacks 
almost  every  calf  born  in  the  herd,  or  in  the  building,  rather,  and  if 
the  calf  escapes  an  attack  in  the  first  two  or  three  days  of  its  life  it 
usually  survives.  Those  that  recover  from  an  attack,  however,  are 
liable  one  or  tw^o  weeks  later  to  suffer  from  an  infective  inflammation 
of  the  lungs.  The  infection  clings  to  a  stable  for  years,  in  many 
cases  rendering  it  impossible  to  preserve  and  raise  the  calves.  It 
has  frequently  coincided  with  abortions  and  failures  to  conceive  in 
the  same  herd,  so  that  it  has  been  thought  that  the  same  infective 
germ  produces  one  type  of  abortion.  On  the  other  hand,  the  removal 
of  the  calving  cow  from  the  herd  to  calve  in  a  separate  building, 
hitherto  unused  and  therefore  uninfected,  usually  effects  the  escape 
and  survival  of  the  offspring. 

The  disease  has  been  traced  by  Nocard  and  Lignieres  to  a  small 
bacillus  having  the  general  characters  of  those  that  produce  hemor- 
rhagic septicemia,  which  is  usually  combined  with  a  variety  of 
others,  but  is  in  some  cases  alone  and  in  pure  culture,  especially  in 


260  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

the  joints.  The  theon^  of  Lignieres  is  that  this  bacillus  is  the  pri- 
mary offender,  and  that  once  introduced  it  so  depresses  the  vital 
powers  of  the  system  and  tissue  cells  that  the  healthy  resistance  to 
other  bacteria  is  impaired  or  suspended,  and  hence  the  general  and 
deadly  invasion  of  the  latter. 

Inoculations  with  this  bacillus  killed  guinea  pigs  or  rabbits  in  6 
to  18  hours,  and  calves  in  30  hours,  with  symptoms  and  lesions  of 
hemorrhagic  septicemia,  including  profuse  fetid  diarrhea. 

The  predominance  of  the  early  and  deadly  lesions  in  the  alimen- 
tary tract  would  seem  to  imply  infection  through  the  feed,  and  the 
promptitude  of  the  attack  after  birth,  together  with  the  frequent 
coincidence  of  contagious  abortion  in  the  herd,  suggest  the  presence 
of  the  germ  in  the  cow;  yet  the  escape  of  tlie  calf  when  the  cow 
calves  in  a  fresh  building  is  equally  suggestive  of  the  infection 
through  germs  laid  up  in  the  building.  This  conclusion  is  further 
sustained  by  the  observation  that  the  bacillus  evidently  enters  by 
the  raw,  unhealed  navel,  that  it  is  diffused  in  the  blood,  and  that  a 
very  careful  preservation  of  the  navel  against  infection  gives  im- 
munity from  attack. 

Prevention. — The  disease  is  so  certainly  and  speedily  fatal  that  it 
is  hopeless  to  expect  recovery,  and  therefore  prevention  is  the  ra- 
tional resort. 

"Vivien  a  herd  is  small,  the  removal  of  the  dam  to  a  clean,  unused 
stable  a  few  days  before  calving  and  her  retention  there  for  a  week 
usually  succeeds.  It  is  in  the  large  herd  that  the  disease  is  mainly 
to  be  dreaded,  however,  and  in  this  it  is  impossible  to  furnish  new 
and  pure  stables  for  each  successive  group  of  two  or  three  calving 
cows.  The  thorough  disinfection  of  the  general  stable  ought  to  suc- 
ceed, yet  I  have  seen  the  cleanest  and  purest  stable  repeatedly  dis- 
infected with  corrosive  sublimate  without  stopping  the  malady.  It 
would  appear  as  if  the  germ  lodged  on  the  surface  or  in  the  bowels 
of  the  cow  and  tided  the  infection  over  the  period  of  stable  disinfec- 
tion. Though  insufficient  of  themselves,  the  supply  of  separate 
calving  boxes  and  the  frequent  thorough  cleaning  and  disinfection 
of  both  these  and  the  stables  should  not  be  neglected.  The  most 
important  measure,  however,  is  the  disinfection  of  the  navel. 

The  cow  should  be  furnished  with  abundance  of  dry,  clean  bed- 
ding, sprinkled  with  a  solution  of  carbolic  acid.  As  soon  as  calving 
sets  in  the  tail  and  hips  and  anus  and  vulva  should  be  sponged  with 
a  carbolic-acid  solution  (one-half  ounce  to  the  quart),  and  the  vagina 
injected  with  a  weaker  solution  (2  drams  to  the  quart).  Fresh  car- 
bolized  bedding  should  be  constantly  supplied,  so  that  the  calf  may 
be  dropped  on  that  and  not  on  soaked  litter  nor  manure.  The  navel 
string  should  be  at  once  tied  with  a  cord  that  has  been  taken  from  a 


DISEASES    OF    YOUNG    CALVES.  261 

strong  solution  of  carbolic  acid.  The  stump  of  the  cord  and  the 
adjacent  skin  should  then  be  washed  with  the  following  solution: 
lodin,  one-half  dram ;  iodid  of  potassium,  one-half  dram ;  water,  1 
quart.  When  dry  it  may  be  covered  with  a  coating  of  collodion  or 
tar,  each  containing  1  per  cent  of  iodin. 

Whenever  a  calf  shows  any  sign  of  scouring  it  should  be  instantly 
removed  to  another  pen  and  building,  and  the  vacated  one  should 
be  thoroughly  cleaned  and  disinfected.  Different  attendants  should 
take  care  of  the  sound  calves  and  the  infected  ones,  and  all  utensils, 
litter,  etc.,  kept  scrupulously  apart. 

After  one  week  the  healthy  calves  may  usually  be  safely  herded 
together,  or  they  may  be  safely  placed  in  the  cow  stable. 

OTHER  AILMENTS  OF  THE  CALF. 

Among  these  may  be  named  several  congenital  imperfections,  such 
as  imperforate  anus,  vulva,  or  prepuce,  which  are  to  be  recognized  by 
the  inability  to  pass  dung  or  urine,  in  spite  of  straining,  and  the 
formation  of  swellings  in  the  anus,  vulva,  or  sheath.  Each  must  be 
carefully  incised  with  the  knife,  taking  care  not  to  injure  the  muscles 
which  circumscribe  the  respective  openings;  also  tongue-tie,  in 
which  the  thin,  flaccid,  mucous  membrane  passing  from  the  median 
line  of  the  lower  surface  of  the  tongue  binds  the  latter  too  closely 
to  the  floor  of  the  mouth  and  renders  the  tongue  unfit  for  gathering 
in  the  food  in  after  life.  This  must  be  cut  with  knife  or  scissors, 
so  as  to  give  the  tongue  a  reasonable  degree  of  liberty. 

Aphtha,  or  thrush,  is  another  trouble  of  the  sucking  calf ,  showing 
itself  as  a  white,  curdy  elevation  on  the  tongue,  lips,  cheeks,  or  gums, 
and  when  detached  leaving  a  raw,  red,  angry  surface.  It  is  due  to 
the  growth  of  a  vegetable  parasite  long  recognized  as  the  O'idium 
albicans  {Saccharom/yces  albicans).  It  is  easily  removed  by  rubbing 
with  powdered  borax,  but  inasmuch  as  other  colonies  are  liable  to 
start  either  in  the  mouth  or  in  the  pharynx,  gullet,  or  stomach,  it  is 
well  to  give  a  dose  of  one-half  dram  of  hyposulphite  of  soda  in 
water  daj'^  by  day  for  several  days. 

Rickets  is  not  a  common  disease  in  calves,  and  comes  on,  if  at  all, 
later  than  those  we  have  been  considering.  It  consists  in  softening 
and  friability  of  the  bones  from  a  deficiency  of  lime  salts,  and  ap- 
pears to  be  mainly  connected  with  an  inherited  weakness  of  consti- 
tution, unsuitable  feeding,  cold,  close,  damp  buildings,  microbian 
infection,  and  other  conditions  inimical  to  health.  The  prevention 
and  treatment  of  rickets  consists  essentially  in  the  improvement  of 
the  digestion  and  general  health ;  hence  sunshine,  open  air,  exercise, 
nourishing  food,  and  tonics  are  indicated.     (See  p.  265.) 


BONES:  DISEASES  AND  ACCIDENTS. 

By  V.  T.  Atkinson,  V.  S. 
[Revised  by  John  R.  Mohler,  V.  M.  D.] 

Some  knowledge  of  the  skeleton  is  advisable  to  facilitate  the  study 
of  diseases  of  bones  and  the  accidental  injuries  to  which  they  are 
exposed.  The  skeleton  of  the  adult  ox  is  made  up  of  the  following 
number  of  bones: 

Spinal  column ^ 45 

Head ■-  28 

Chest^ 27 

Shoulder 2 —  1  on  each  side. 

Arm 2 —  1  on  each  side. 

Foreai'm 4 —  2  on  each  side. 

Forefoot 40 — 20  on  each  side. 

Pelvis 2 —  Ion  each  side. 

Thigh 2 —  1  on  each  sida 

Leg 6 —  3  on  each  side. 

Hind  foot 38 — 19  on  each  side. 

Total 196 

Without  attempting  to  burden  the  reader  with  the  technical  names 
and  a  scientific  classification  of  each,  it  appears  desirable  to  describe 
some  of  the  characteristics  of  forms  in  general  and  of  a  few  classes 
into  which  they  may  be  divided,  leaving  the  special  study  of  in- 
dividual bones  to  the  illustrations  of  the  skeleton  (PL  XXV),  which 
will  serve  better  than  a  great  deal  of  Avriting  to  fix  in  the  mind  of  the 
reader  the  location,  relation,  and  function  of  each  one.  In  early  fetal 
life  the  place  of  bone  is  supplied  by  temporary  cartilage,  which 
gradually  changes  to  bone.  For  convenience  of  study,  bones  may  be 
said  to  be  composed  of  a  form  of  dense  connective  tissue  impregnated 
with  lime  salts  and  to  contain  two  elementary  constituents — the 
organic  or  animal  and  the  inorganic  or  earthy.  In  young  animals 
the  former  predominates ;  with  increasing  years  the  relative  propor- 
tions of  the  two  change,  so  that  when  advanced  age  is  reached  the 
proportion  of  inorganic  far  exceeds  the  organic.  The  gradual  change 
with  advancing  years  from  organic  to  inorganic  has  the  effect  of 
rendering  the  bone  harder  and  more  brittle,  and  though  it  is  stronger, 
the  reparative  process  is  slower  when  injury  does  occur. 

The  bones  are  nourished  in  two  ways:  First,  from  the  outside 
through  their  covering,  called  the  periosteum — the  thin,  strong  mem- 
262 


bones:  diseases  and  accidents.  263 

brane  that  covers  every  part  of  the  bone  except  the  articular  surface 
of  the  joints;  and,  secondly,  from  within  through  the  minute 
branches  of  blood  vessels  which  pass  into  the  bones  through  holes 
(foramina)  on  their  surface  and  are  distributed  in  the  soft  structure 
(medulla)  of  the  inside.  The  structure  of  the  bone  is  divided  into 
two  parts — the  compact  or  hard  material  of  the  outside,  which  gives 
strength  and  is  more  abundant  in  the  shafts  of  long  bones,  and  the 
cancellated,  softer  tissue  of  the  inside,  which  affords  accommodation 
to  the  blood  vessels  necessary  for  the  nourishment  of  that  part  of 
the  structure. 

In  shape,  bones  are  divided  into  three  classes — -long,  flat,  and  short. 
The  long  bones  are  the  ribs  and  those  mostly  found  in  the  limbs;  the 
flat  bones  are  found  in  the  head,  the  shoulder,  and  the  pelvis;  the 
short  bones  in  the  spinal  column  and  in  the  lower  portions  of  the 
limbs. 

With  this  little  introduction,  which  seems  almost  indispensable,  we 
will  proceed  at  once  to  the  consideration  of  diseases  of  bones,  for  they 
undergo  diseased  processes  like  any  other  living  tissue. 

OSTEITIS. 

Inflammation  of  the  compact  structure  of  bones  (osteitis)  may  be 
either  acute  or  chronic,  and  may  involve  the  whole  extent  of  the  bone 
affected  or  may  be  confined  to  only  a  portion  of  it.  This  inflamma- 
tion results  from  injury,  such  as  concussion,  laceration,  or  a  crushing 
bruise;  also  from  specific  influences,  as  in  actinomycosis  (lumpy  jaw) 
or  cases  of  foul  foot.  The  latter  affection  frequently  involves  the 
bones,  and  for  this  reason  the  pastern  is  the  most  frequent  seat  of 
osteitis.  There  is  dull  pain  on  pressure  and  a  painful  swelling  of 
bone  when  pus  is  present.  Suppuration  may  involve  the  overlying 
soft  tissues,  causing  an  abscess,  which  may  finally  break  through  the 
skin.  The  inflammatory  condition  sometimes  assumes  an  ulcerated 
form  (caries)  or  from  interrupted  nutrition  of  the  part  deprived  of 
the  blood  necessary  to  its  nourishment  may  cause  death  of  a  large 
section  of  bone  (necrosis)  ;  this  dead  fragment  (sequestrum),  becom- 
ing separated  from  the  main  portion  of  bone,  acts  as  a  foreign  body. 

Treatment. — This  consists  in  resting  the  affected  part  and  in  giving 
vent  at  the  earliest  possible  moment  to  whatever  pus  may  be  present. 
Free  drainage  should  then  be  maintained.  Apply  dressings  of  lactic 
acid  or  inject  with  5  per  cent  zinc-chlorid  solution  and  pack  with 
tampons  of  cotton  soaked  in  antiseptic  solutions.  A  laxative  to  keep 
the  bowels  moving  freely  is  the  only  internal  treatment  necessary. 

PERIOSTITIS. 

This  disease  is  an  inflammation  of  the  external  covering  of  bone 
(periosteum)  and  is  usually  produced  by  wounds,  pressure,  or  crush- 


264  DJSEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

ing  the  part.  The  periosteum  is  well  supplied  with  sensitive  nerve 
endings  and  when  inflamed  is  verj'^  sensitive  to  pressure  and  may 
cause  lameness.  This  condition  is  often  difficult  to  determine,  and 
even  an  acute  observer  may  fail  to  locate  the  point  of  its  existence. 
There  are  three  forms  of  periostitis — aseptic,  purulent,  and  fibrous. 

Aseptic  periostitis  when  it  becomes  chronic  causes  such  a  bony 
enlargement  (exostosis)  as  is  seen  in  the  callous  formation  following 
the  fracture  of  a  bone.  The  formation  of  such  a  tumor  or  enlarge- 
ment on  the  surface  of  a  bone  is  liable  to  occur  in  any  part  of  the 
bone  covered  with  periosteum,  and  when  found  near  a  joint  involv- 
ing two  or  more  bones  it  is  liable  to  result  in  their  union  (anchylosis). 

Treatment. — Applications  of  cold  water  to  check  the  inflammatory 
processes  is  indicated  for  the  first  few  days  in  aseptic  periostitis, 
followed  by  hot  fomentations  to  hurry  resorption  of  fluids.  Mas- 
.sage  should  then  be  given  with  camphor  ointment,  mercurial  oint- 
ment, soap  liniment,  or  Lugol's  solution.  In  the  chronic  forjn  point 
firing  or  a  biniodid-of -mercury  blister  will  be  found  beneficial. 

Purulent  periostitis  follows  wounds  which  reach  the  periosteum 
and  become  infected,  as  observed  in  compound  fractures,  or  it  may 
result  from  advancing  purulent  conditions  in  neighboring  structures, 
as  in  foul  foot.  It  may  also  occur  in  the  course  of  an  infectious  dis- 
ease, when  small  abscesses  are  formed  under  the  periosteum  (sub- 
periosteal abscess) .  It  may  lead  to  necrosis  of  the  bone  or  a  fistulous 
track  from  the  bone  to  the  surface.  There  is  usually  much  pain  and 
fever,  and  the  odor  from  the  wound  is  offensive. 

Treatment. — In  this  form  of  periostitis  the  periosteum  should  be 
freely  incised,  followed  either  by  continuous  irrigation  or  frequent 
injection  of  the  wound  with  antiseptic  solutions. 

Fibrous  periostitis. — This  form  of  the  disease  consists  in  the 
thickening  of  the  outer  layer  of  the  periosteum  from  the  inflamma- 
tion reaching  it  from  neighboring  structures.  This  newly  formed 
fibrous  tissue  may  become  ossified  or  may  transmit  the  inflammation 
to  the  deeper  bony  structures.  It  is  frequently  seen  in  cases  in  which 
there  has  been  an  intense  inflammation  of  the  skin  close  to  an 
underlying  bone. 

Treatm/int. — The  treatment  should  be  the  same  as  that  recom- 
mended for  aseptic  periostitis. 

OSTEOMYELITIS. 

This  term  refers  to  an  inflammation  of  the  bone  marrow,  which  is 
most  commonly  seen  following  the  bacterial  infection  of  a  compound 
fracture  and  usually  results  in  pus  formation.  The  bone  is  melted 
away  and  pus  escapes  from  the  bone  under  the  periosteum,  involving 
the  soft  tissues.  It  is  principally  confined  to  the  Ibng  bones  and  sel- 
dom affects  more  than  one. 


BONES  :    DISEASES   AND   ACCIDENTS.  265 

Treatment. — The  bone  should  be  opened  for  the  purpose  of  curet- 
ting out  the  diseased  portion  of  the  marrow  cavity  and  removing  all 
the  necrotic  pieces  of  bone.  This  should  be  undertaken  only  by  a 
competent  veterinarian.  The  after  treatment  consists  in  tamponing 
the  wound  with  pledgets  of  iodoform  gauze  or  injecting  a  2  per  cent 
solution  of  sulphuric  acid  or  hydrochloric  acid  of  similar  strength  or 
pure  lactic  acid  or  a  mixture  of  iodoform  1  part  and  glycerin  4  parts. 
The  wound  in  the  soft  tissue  should  be  kept  open  until  the  cavity  in 
the  bone  has  filled  with'  granulation  tissue. 

RICKETS. 

This  disease,  also  called  "  rachitis,"  is  an  inflammatory  affection  of 
young,  growing  bones,  and  mostly  involves  the  ribs  and  long  bones  of 
the  legs.  It  consists  in  a  failure  of  the  organism  to  deposit  lime 
salts  in  bone,  and  for  this  reason  the  bones  do  not  ossify  so  rapidly  as 
they  should.  The  cartilaginous  ends  of  the  bones  grow  rapidly,  but 
ossification  does  not  keep  pace  with  it.  The  bones  become  long  and 
their  ends  bend  at  the  joints,  the  legs  become  crooked,  and  the  joints 
are  large  and  irregular.  All  the  bones  affected  with  this  disease  are 
thicker  than  normal,  and  the  gait  of  the  animal  is  stiff  and  painful. 
A  row  of  bony  enlargements  may  be  found  where  the  ribs  articulate 
with  the  cartilages  connecting  them  with  the  breastbone  and  is  called 
the  "beaded  line."  A  catarrhal  condition  of  the  digestive  tract  is 
usually  observed.  The  disease  may  result  from  an  inherited  weak- 
ness of  constitution,  poor  hygienic  surroundings,  or  improper  diet. 
Calves  and  foals  are  less  frequently  affected  with  rickets  than  dogs 
and  pigs. 

Treatment. — The  affected  animal  should  have  nourishing  feed 
containing  a  proper  quantity  of  lime  salts.  Outdoor  exercise  and 
plenty  of  fresh  air  are  indispensable.  Limewater  shpuld  be  given 
once  daily  for  drinking  purposes  and  ground  bone  meal  mixed  with 
the  food.  Phosphorus,  one-fortieth  of  a  grain,  and  calcium  phos- 
phate, 1  dram,  given  twice  daily  to  a  2-month-old  calf,  and  propor- 
tionally increased  for  older  animals,  has  proved  efficacious  in  this 
disease.  In  some  cases  the  long  bones  of  the  limbs  are  too  weak  at 
birth  to  support  the  Aveight  of  the  animal,  and  temporary  splints, 
carefully  padded  and  wrapped  on  with  some  soft  bandages,  become 
necessary. 

OSTEOMALACIA  (CREEPS). 

This  is  a  condition  of  bone  brittleness  or  softening  of  bone  found 
usually  in  adult  life.  It  consists  in  the  decalcification  of  mature 
bone,  with  the  advancing  diminution  of  the  compact  portion  of  bone 
by  absorption.  The  periosteum  strips  very  easily  from  the  bone. 
This  disease  is  seen  in  milch  cows  during  the  period  of  heavy  lacta- 


266  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

tion  or  in  the  later  stages  of  j^regnancy,  and  the  greater  the  yield  of 
milk  the  more  rapid  the  progress  of  the  disease.  Heifers  with  their 
first  calves  are  frequently  affected,  as  these  animals  require  a  consid- 
erable quantity  of  animal  salts  for  their  own  growth  and  for  the 
nourishment  of  their  offspring. 

Symptotns. — In  marked  cases  there  is  a  gradual  emaciation  and 
symptoms  of  gastrointestinal  catarrh,  with  depraved  appetite,  the 
animal  eating  manure,  decayed  wood,  dirt,  leather,  etc.  Muscular 
"vyeakness  is  prominent,  together  with  muscle*  tremors,  which  simulate 
chills,  but  are  not  accompanied  with  any  rise  of  temperature.  The 
animal  has  a  stiff,  laborious  gait;  there  is  pain  and  swelling  of  the 
joints,  and  constant  shifting  of  the  weight  from  one  leg  to  another. 
The  restricted  movements  of  the  joints  are  frequently  accompanied 
with  a  crackling  sound,  which  has  caused  the  name  of  "  creeps  "  to  be 
applied  to  the  disease.  The  coat  is  dull  and  rough  and  the  skin  dry 
and  hidebound.  The  animal  is  subject  to  frequent  sprains  or  fracture 
of  bones  without  apparent  cause,  as  in  lying  down  or  turning  around, 
and  when  such  fractures  occur  they  are  difficult  to  unite.  The  bones 
principally  involved  are  the  upper  bones  of  the  legs,  the  haunch  bone, 
and  the  middle  bones  of  the  spinal  column.  The  disease  in  this 
country  is  confined  to  localized  areas  in  the  Southwest,  known  as  the 
"  alkali  districts,"  and  in  the  old  dairy  sections  of  New  York  State. 
The  cause  of  this  affection  is  the  insufficiency  or  total  absence  of 
lime  salts  in  the  food,  also  to  feeding  ha}^  of  low,  damp  pastures, 
kitchen  slops,  and  potatoes,  or  to  overstocking  lands.  It  occurs  on 
old,  worn-out  soil  devoid  of  lime  salts,  and  has  also  been  observed  to 
follow  a  dry  season. 

Treatment. — This  should  consist  in  a  change  of  feed  and  the  artifi- 
cial feeding  of  lime  salts,  such  as  magnesium  and  sodium  phosphate. 
Feed  containing  mineral  salts  may  be  given,  such  as  beans,  cowpeas, 
oats,  cottonseed  meal,  or  wheat  bran.  Cottonseed  meal  is  one  of  the 
best  feeds  for  this  purpose,  but  it  should  be  fed  carefully,  as  too  large 
quantities  of  it  are  injurious  to  cows.  Phosphorus  may  also  be  given 
in  one-fourth  gi*ain  doses  twice  daily,  together  with  a  tablespoonful 
of  powdered  bone  meal  or  crude  calcium  phosphate  at  each  meal. 
Ordinary  lime  dissolved  in  drinking  water  (limewater)  will  also  be 
found  efficacious  in  combating  this  disease,  and  can  be  provided  at 
slight  expense.  A  change  of  pasture  to  a  locality  where  the  disease  is 
unknown  and  a  free  sujjply  of  common  salt  and  bone  meal  will  be  the 
most  convenient  method  of  treating  range  cattle. 

SPRAINS. 

The  most  common  accident  occurring  to  bones  and  joints  is  a 
sprain  of  the  ligaments  miiting  the  bones,  or  the  tendons  uniting  the 
muscles  and  bones.  A  sprain  is  the  result  of  a  sudden  forcing  of  a 


BON-ES:    DISEASES    AND   ACCIDENTS.  267 

joint  in  an  unnatural  direction,  or,  if  in  a  natural  direction,  beyond 
the  power  of  the  ligament  or  tendon  to  restrain  it  properly,  so  that 
part  of  the  fibers  of  either  are  ruptured.  When  such  an  accident 
occurs  pain  is  immediately  inflicted,  varying  in  degree  with  the 
extent  of  the  injury,  which  is  soon  followed  by  swelling,  with  more 
or  less  heat  and  tenderness.  If  the  seat  of  the  injury  be  in  any  of 
the  limbs,  lameness  is  likely  to  result.  Of  the  causes  of  sprain,  slip- 
ping on  ice  or  a  wet  floor,  playing,  or  fighting  with  another  animal 
are  the  most  common. 

Sprain  or  the  shoulder  joint. — This  is  liable  to  occur  from  any 
of  the  causes  mentioned  above  or  from  the  animal  slipping  suddenly 
into  a  rut  or  hole.  When  such  an  accident  occurs,  sudden  lameness 
will  attract  attention.  The  animal  will  be  noticed  to  drag  the  leg: 
when  walking  and  to  carry  it  in  a  circular  direction,  outward  and 
forward,  at  each  step.  The  leg  should  be  carefully  examined,  pres- 
sure over  the  joint  causing  the  animal  to  evince  pain.  If  the  person 
making  the  examination  is  in  doubt,  it  is  well  to  make  a  comparison 
between  the  shoulders  by  pressing  first  on  one  and  then  the  other. 
After  such  an  accident  the  animal  should  be  tied  up  so  as  to  limit  so 
far  as  possible  the  use  of  the  injured  joint. 

Soft  feed  should  be  given  with  a  view  of  keeping  the  bowels  acting 
freely.  • 

Treatment. — During  the  first  three  daj' s  the  treatment  should  con- 
sist of  cold-water  irrigation  to  check  the  inflammation  and  relieve  the 
pain.  Hot  fomentations  may  then  be  applied  to  hasten  the  absorp- 
tion of  the  inflammatory  fluids.  Wlien  the  pain  has  somewhat 
abated,  equal  parts  of  mercurial  ointment  and  green  soap  may  be 
rubl>ed  into  the  swollen  tissue.  Should  lameness  continue  after  the 
tenth  day,  good  results  will  be  obtained  from  the  application  of  a 
blister.  This  may  be  done  by  carefully  clipping  off  the  hair  over 
the  joint,  including  a  surface  of  4  or  5  inches  in  circumference,  and 
rubbing  in  the  following  preparation: 

Powdered    cantharides '. dram 1 

Biniodid   of  mercury do 1 

Vaseline    ounce 1 

The  animal's  head  should  be  carefully  tied  until  the  third  day,  to 
prevent  its  licking  the  blister.  The  blistered  surface  should  then  be 
smeared  with  lard  or  vaseline  every  other  day  until  the  scabs  fall  off. 
Gentle  exercise  should  be  allowed  after  the  fourth  or  fifth  day  from 
the  application  of  the  blister.  If  the  lameness  still  remains  the 
blister  may  be  repeated  in  three  weeks  or  a  month. 

Sprain  of  the  fetlock. — This  may  occur  from  misstep  when  the 
animal  is  moving  rapidly,  and  the  twisting  or  wrenching  of  the  foot 
is  sufficient  to  rupture  partially  the  ligaments  which  bind  the  bones 


268  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

together  at  that  part.  Such  an  accident  also  frequentlj^  occurs  by 
the  foot  in  getting  fastened  in  a  hole  in  the  floor;  the  wrenching  is 
the  result  of  the  animal's  attempt  to  liberate  it.  Lameness,  followed 
by  swelling  of  the  joint  and  pain  when  it  is  handled,  or  when  the 
animal  moves  the  joint,  and  heat,  are  the  more  noticeable  symptoms. 
If  the  sprain  is  very  severe,  the  animal  occasionally  does  not  bear 
its  weight  on  the  limb. 

Treatment. — The  most  important  consideration  in  the  treatment 
of  this  affection  is  rest,  which  is  best  enforced  by  keeping  the  ani- 
mal in  the  stall  and  placing  strong,  muslin  bandages  about  the  in- 
flamed joint.  As  in  the  sprain  of  the  shoulder,  cold  water  in  the 
form  of  douches,  continuous  irrigation  with  hose  or  soaking  tub,  or 
finely  chopped  ice  poultices  is  indicated  for  the  first  three  days. 
Following  this  apply  a  Priessnitz  bandage^  moderately  tight  about 
the  joint,  which  not  only  conduces  to  rest,  but  also  favors  absorption. 
Massage  with  stimulating  liniments,  such  as  soap  or  camphor,  may 
later  be  applied  to  the  affected  parts. 

If  the  lameness  has  not  disappeared  by  the  tenth  day,  the  blister 
advised  for  the  sprain  of  the  shoulder  should  be  applied  and  the 
same  precautions  observed  as  to  tying  the  animal's  head  and  subse- 
quent smearing  with  vaseline.  ^^Hien  a  blister  is  applied  in  this 
locality,  the  back  part  of  the  heel  should  be  first  filled  with  lard  or 
vaseline,  and  care  taken  to  prevent  any  of  the  blistering  preparation 
from  coming  in  contact  with  the  skin  of  that  part.  If  this  precaution 
is  not  observed,  scratches  may  ensue  and  prove  troublesome. 

Sprain  of  the  hip. — This  is  liable  to  result  from  the  animal's 
slipping  in  such  way  as  to  spread  the  hind  feet  wide  apart.  The 
patient  goes  stiff  in  the  hind  legs,  or  lame  in  one  hind  leg,  walking 
with  a  straddling  gait  and  swinging  the  leg  outward  as  it  is  carried 
forward.  Tenderness  may  occasionally  be  detected  on  pressure,  but 
owing  to  the  heavy  covering  of  muscles  outside  the  joint  this  test  is 
not  always  reliable. 

In  the  acute  cases  give  rest  and  cold  local  applications.  After  the 
fourth  or  fifth  day  the  blister  mentioned  for  sprain  of  the  shoulder 
may  be  applied  with  advantage,  and  if  this  proves  insufficient,  as  a 
last  resort  we  may  fire  in  points  over  the  joint. 

Sprain  or  the  back. — Sprain  of  the  back,  particularly  in  the 
region  of  the  loins,  is  not  an  uncommon  accident  among  cattle.  It 
is  liable  to  occur  from  the  animals  slipping  with  both  hind  feet  side- 

1  A  Preissnitz  bandage  is  a  dressing  which  combines  the  three  properties  of  keeping  a 
part  warm,  moist,  and  subjecting  it  to  uniform  pressure.  It  consists  of  three  layers  of 
material.  The  inner  layer  is  composed  of  absorbent  cotton  or  some  other  material  which 
is  capable  of  holding  moisture.  This  is  soaked  in  water  and  wrapped  around  the  part. 
The  second  layer  consists  of  a  substance  which  is  impervious  to  moisture,  as  oiled  silk 
or  oiled  paper,  and  is  applied  abo\it  the  inner  layer  to  prevent  evaporation.  The  third  or 
outside  layer  is  composed  of  a  flannel  or  woolen  bandage  to  prevent  the  radiation  of  beat 
and  thus  keep  the  moist  inner  layer  at  the  temperature  of  the  body. 


bones:  diseases  and  accidents.  269 

wise  so  as  to  twist  the  back,  or  from  slipping  violently  backward  so 
that  great  stress  is  throAvn  on  the  loins.  The  patient  moA'es  with 
difficulty,  using  the  hind  parts  in  a  guarded  manner,  as  if  afraid  of 
causing  severe  pain.  Occasionally,  if  the  sprain  is  severe,  the  animal 
will  rise  with  difficulty.  Pressure  on  the  back  in  the  immediate  region 
of  the  loins  causes  pain.  Such  cases  may  be  mistaken  for  paralysis, 
and,  in  fact,  in  severe  cases,  during  the  early  stages  of  the  injury, 
although  the  nerve  supply  is  not  interfered  with,  the  injury  to  the 
muscles  and  resulting  pain  is  so  great  that  the  condition  is  almost 
equal  to  paralysis,  although  liable  to  be  att€nded  with  more  favorable 
results.  Hot  applications,  such  as  blankets  w^rung  out  of  hot  water 
and  changed  often,  will  be  likely  to  afford  relief  during  the  earlier 
stages.  Afterward  the  blister  mentioned  for  sprain  of  the  shoulder 
may  be  applied  with  advantage. 

FRACTURES  (BROKEN  BONES). 

Bones  may  be  accidentally  broken  in  many  ways  and  from  differ- 
ent causes.  Fractures  in  general  are  liable  to  be  produced  by  ex- 
ternal force  suddenly  and  violently  applied,  either  directly  to  the 
part  or  at  a  distance,  the  force  being  transmitted  through  the 
stronger  bones  until  it  expends  itself  by  breaking  a  weaker  one  re- 
mote from  the  seat  of  the  injury.  Occasionally  violent  contraction 
of  muscles  is  sufficient  to  break  a  bone.  Certain  bones,  those  of  the 
limbs  in  particular,  owing  to  their  exposed  position,  are  more  liable 
to  fracture  than  others.  Owing  to  certain  predisposing  causes,  such 
as  age,  habit,  or  heriditary  constitutional  weakness,  the  bones  of 
some  animals  are  more  easily  fractured  than  those  of  others.  The 
bones  of  an  animal  advanced  in  years  are  more  subject  to  fracture 
because  of  the  preponderance  of  inorganic  matter  rendering  them 
more  brittle.  They  are  also  occasionally  rendered  liable  to  fracture 
by  a  previously  existing  diseased  condition.  Fractures  are  diAdded 
into  four  classes — partial,  simple,  compound,  and  comminuted. 

Partial  feactures. — Partial  fractures  are  those  which  are  liable 
to  occur  in  a  yoimg  animal  in  which  the  preponderance  of  animal 
matter  or  the  semicartilaginous  condition  of  the  bone  renders  it 
tough,  so  that  even  when  considerable  force  is  applied  the  bone 
bends,  breaking  on  the  side  opposite  that  to  which  the  force  was 
applied,  after  the  manner  in  which  a  green  stick  bends  and  breaks. 

Simple  fractures. — Simple  fracture  is  one  in  which  the  bone  is 
severed  in  two  parts,  transversely,  longitudinally,  or  obliquely,  with- 
out serious  injury  to  the  adjoining  structures. 

Compound  fractures. — Compound  fracture  is  one  in  which  there 
is  an  open  wound  permitting  the  air  to  communicate  with  the  ends 
of  the  broken  bones. 


270  DISEASES  OF    CATTLE. 

Comminuted  fractures. — Comminuted  fracture  is  one  in  which 
the  bone  is  shattered  or  divided  into  a  number  of  fragments. 

Complicated  fractures.— Complicated  fracture  is  one  in  which 
other  structures  surrounding  the  bones  are  injured. 

General  symptoms  of  fracture. — When  a  fracture  of  one  or  more 
of  the  large  bones  of  a  limb  occurs,  symptoms  are  sure  to  be  well 
marked.  After  the  accident  the  animal  refuses  to  touch  the  foot  to 
the  ground  and,  if  compelled  to  move,  does  so  with  great  pain  and 
reluctance.  There  is  more  or  less  shortening  of  the  limb,  w^ith  trem- 
bling of  the  muscles  in  the  vicinity  of  the  injury;  deformity,  and  in- 
creased mobility,  so  that,  instead  of  the  natural  joints  of  the  limb 
and  the  natural,  muscular  control  of  their  motion,  a  new  joint,  over 
which  the  animal  has  no  control,  is  formed  where  the  fracture  oc- 
curred. As  the  leg,  shortened  by  the  ends  of  the  bones  being  forced 
past  one  another  from  the  muscular  contraction  which  invariably 
takes  place,  hangs  dependent  from  the  body  it  swings  in  an  awkward 
and  unnatural  manner,  permitting  the  toe  and  foot  to  assume  posi- 
tions in  their  relations  to  other  parts  of  the  body  which  otherwise 
would  be  impossible.  If  the  fractured  bone  is  so  situated  that  the 
parts  may  be  moved  one  upon  another,  a  grating  sound,  known  as 
crepitus,  will  be  heard. 

General  treatment  of  fractures. — When  a  fracture  occurs,  the 
advisability  of  attempting  treatment  must  first  be  determined.  If 
the  animal  is  young,  valuable,  and  of  reasonably  quiet  temperament, 
and  the  fracture  is  not  too  great  in  extent,  the  chances  of  recovery 
are  fair.  On  the  other  hand,  if  the  animal  should  be  of  little  value, 
irritable,  advanced  in  years,  and  the  fracture  is  a  serious  compound 
cr  comminuted  one,  the  wiser  course  would  generally  be  to  put  the 
creature  out  of  its  misery. 

Having  determined  to  attempt  treatment,  no  time  should  be  lost 
in  restoring  the  parts  as  nearly  as  possible  to  their  natural  position 
and  retaining  them  there.  If  the  ends  of  the  bones  have  been  drawn 
one  past  the  other,  they  should  be  drawn  out  by  firm  and  continuous 
tension,  until  they  again  assume  the  position  in  which  they  were 
before  the  accident.  All  this  can  better  be  done  before  the  swelling 
(which  is  sure  to  result)  takes  place.  If  the  swelling  has  occurred 
before  the  injury  is  noticed,  do  not  attempt  to  treat  it,  but  proceed  at 
once  to  treat  the  fracture  as  though  the  swelling  were  not  present, 
for  no  step  can  be  taken  toAvard  recovery  until  the  ends  of  the  bone 
have  been  restored  to  their  proper  position.  When  that  is  done  and 
proper  appliances  have  been  used  to  prevent  them  from  being  again 
misplaced,  the  swelling,  which  is  the  result  of  irritation,  will  be  re- 
lieved. In  selecting  the  appliances  to  be  used  in  the  treatment  of 
fracture  the  judgment  and  ingenuity  of  the  operator  are  of  much  im- 
portance.    Splints,  made  of  wood  shaped  to  fit  the  limb  and  padded 


bones:  diseases  and  accidents.  271 

with  soft  material  where  they  come  in  contact  with  bony  promi- 
nences, and  held  in  position  by  means  of  bandages,  are  the  oldest 
method,  and  with  some  are  still  most  popular.  The  fracture  pads 
used  in  human  surgery,  and  for  sale  in  surgical  depots,  are  very  con- 
venient. After  being  dipped  in  water  they  may  be  molded  to  fit  the 
limb  and  be  retained  by  means  of  bandages.  Heav}^  sole  leather  is 
also  used  after  being  soaked  in  warm  water- and  molded  to  the  shape 
of  the  limb  and  holes  cut  in  it  to  fit  over  any  sharp  irregularities  in 
the  natural  shape  of  the  bones.  Gutta-percha  sheets  are  also  used 
and  answer  well.  They  are  prepared  and  used  in  the  same  way  as 
the  leather. 

Another  and  perhaps  the  simpl^t  of  all  methods  is  the  application 
of  a  plaster-of -Paris  bandage,  which  is  made  as  follows:  Strips  of 
thin  cheesecloth  3  inches  wide  and  8  or  9  feet  long  are  laid  flat  on 
a  board  and  on  them  is  spread  a  layer  of  plaster  of  Paris  about  one- 
eighth  of  an  inch  thick ;  then,  starting  at  one  end,  roll  carefully  so  as 
to  gather  the  plaster  in  between  the  layers  of  the  bandage.  It  is  of 
course  important  that  the  cloth  be  thin  and  the  plaster  of  Paris  fresh 
and  active.  After  preparing  four  or  five  of  such  bandages  the  op- 
erator is  ready  to  dress  the  fracture,  which,  after  the  parts  have  been 
brought  into  position,  should  be  done  by  covering  all  that  part  of 
the  limb  to  which  the  plaster-of -Paris  bandage  is  to  be  applied  with 
a  single  layer  of  the  dry  bandage,  letting  it  extend  both  above  and 
below  the  part  to  which  the  plaster  bandage  is  to  be  applied  and 
including  under  the  folds  of  the  dry  bandage  at  each  end  a  layer  of 
absorbent  cotton,  which  is  intended  to  form  a  -pad  to  prevent  the 
ends  of  the  plaster  bandage  from  chafing  the  skin  beneath.  When 
this  is  done  one  of  the  plaster  bandages  should  be  placed  in  a  vessel 
of  water  and  allowed  to  remain  till  the  air  bubbles  have  ceased  to 
rise  from  it,  which  will  generally  indicate  that  it  is  soaked  through. 
Then,  taking  it  in  the  hand,  wind  it  carefully  around  and  around  the 
limb,  unrolling  the  bandage  as  it  is  wound  around  the  limb,  occasion- 
ally smoothing  down  the  plaster  of  Paris.  Should  it  form  roughly 
or  in  ridges  the  hand  may  be  dipped  in  water  to  impart  increased 
moisture  to  it.  When  about  finished  with  one  bandage,  place  another 
one  in  the  water,  so  that  the  winding  operation  may  be  continued 
without  delay.  The  bandages  should  be  applied  till  the  cast  is  from 
one-half  to  thriee-quarters  of  an  inch  thick,  then  gently  restrain  the 
animal  for  one-half  or  three-quarters  of  an  hour  till  the  plaster  is 
hardened.  Any  of  the  appliances  used  should  be  so  manipulated  as 
to  prevent  absolutely  any  motion  of  the  detached  parts.  If  the 
fracture  is  near  a  joint,  it  is  generally  best  to  include  the  joint  in  the 
appliance.  The  part  of  the  limb  below  the  bandage  should  be  care- 
fully and  firmly  wrapped  with  an  ordinary  cotton  bandage  all  the 
way  from  the  plaster  bandage  down  to  the  hoof.    This  last  bandage 


272  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

will  tend  to  prevent  swelling,  which  is  liable  to  occur,  the  result  of 
the  dependent  position  in  which  the  aniniid  is  forced  by  nature  to 
keep  the  injured  limb. 

"Wlien  plaster-of-Paris  bandages  are  applied  to  a  compound  frac- 
ture the  injured  part  may  be  previously  dressed  with  a  small,' thick 
pad  of  cotton  immediately  over  the  woimd.  In  applying  the  band- 
age the  operator  may  with  a  little  care  so  arrange  it  as  to  keep  the 
folds  of  the  bandages  off  the  cotton,  or  have  only  a  thin  layer  over 
it,  which  may  be  easily  cut  out  and  the  cotton  removed,  leaving  a  con- 
venient opening  through  which  to  dress  the  wound  without  removing 
the  bandage.  The  ends  of  the  bandage  or  other  appliance  should  be 
carefully  watched  to  see  that  the'skin  does  not  become  chafed,  par- 
ticularly at  the  lower  end.  If  the  bandage  should  become  weak  or 
broken  at  any  part,  it  may  be  strengthened  without  removal  by 
applying  other  bandages  immediately  over  it.  If  swelling  has  taken 
place  before  the  bandage  has  been  applied,  there  is  liable  to  be  some 
loosening  as  it  disappears,  and  even  without  the  swelling  there 
may  be  a  tendency  of  the  bandage  to  slide  downward.  This  may 
be  overcome  by  fastening  it  to  a  suspender  attached  to  a  surcingle 
or  passed  over  the  body  and  attached  to  the  opposite  leg.  If  the 
looseness  can  not  be  overcome  in  this  way,  the  space  may  be  filled  by 
pouring  in  a  thin  paste  of  plaster  of  Paris.  A  better  method,  how- 
ever, is  to  remove  the  bandage  and  apply  another.  Owing  to  the 
hardness  of  the  bandage  it  will  be  removed  with  some  difficulty.  A 
deep  groove  should  be  cut  down  completely  through  it  on  the  oppo- 
site sides.  This  niay  be  done  with  a  chisel  and  a  small  hammer  if 
the  bandage  is  carefully  held  by  an  assistant  so  that  the  concussion 
of  the  blows  is  not  transmitted  to  the  injured  bones.  The  patient 
should  have  a  roomy  stall,  and  should  be  tied  by  the  head  to  prevent 
any  attempts  to  move  around.  In  some  cases  slings  have  been  used. 
Ordinarily,  however,  they  are  not  satisfactory  in  cattle  practice,  and 
if  applied  should  be  for  only  a  few  days  at  a  time,  and  with  a  view  to 
lessen  the  animal's  disposition  to  lie  down,  rather  than  to  prevent  it. 
When  they  are  used  continuously  the  pressure  on  the  abdomen  may 
interfere  with  digestion  and  the  general  health  of  the  animal. 

Modes  of  union. — The  animal  should  bo  kept  as  quiet  as  possible 
and  given  such  feed  as  will  have  a  tendency  to  keep  the  bowels 
slightly  relaxed.  The  success  of  the  operation  depends  chiefly  on 
the  skill  of  the  operator,  but  not  alone  in  the  selection  and  use  of  the 
appliances,  for  as  much  attention  must  be  given  to  subsequent  man- 
agement. The  patients  arc  unreasonable,  and  a  single  awkward 
motion  may  undo  the  work  of  weeks  so  far  as  the  union  of  the  parts 
of  the  bone  is  concerned.  Union  takes  place  after  the  same  process 
and,  if  the  conditions  are  favorable,  with  greater  rapidity  than  in  the 
human  being.     The  injury  that  caused  the  fracture  is  almost  sure  to 


bones:  diseases  and  accidents.  273 

have  extended  to  some  of  the  adjacent  tissues,  and  even  though  the 
fracture  may  be  of  the  simplest  type  there  is  ahnost  sure  to  be  con- 
siderable hemorrhage  around  the  ends  of  the  broken  bone.  This, 
however,  is  unimportant  if  the  skin  remains  intact,  unless  a  very 
large  vessel  should  be  injured,  or  the  fracture  should  open  some  of 
the  important  cavities  of  the  body,  in  which  case  a  fatal  hemorrhage 
may  result.  If,  on  the  other  hand,  the  fracture  is  compound  the 
external  opening  furnishes  a  fertile  field  for  the  lodgment  of  disease- 
producing  germs. 

Unless  great  care  is  taken  in  such  cases,  a  suppurative  process  is 
liable  to  be  established  which  will  seriously  interfere  with,  if  not 
entirely  arrest,  the  process  of  union  between  the  bones;  or  it  may 
become  so  serious  as  to  endanger  the  general  health  of  the  animal 
and  even  be  attended  with  fatal  results.  This  last  danger  is  greater 
if  the  injury  has  occurred  to  the  bones  of  the  arm  or  thigh.  In 
such  cases,  owing  to  the  dense  covering  of  fascia  which  ensheathes 
the  muscular  covering  pus  is  liable  to  be  imprisoned,  and,  burrowing 
downward,  saturate  the  whole  structure,  not  only  endangering  the 
limb,  but,  by  absorption,  may  set  up  blood  poisoning  and  seriously 
interfere  with  the  general  health  of  the  patient,  even  to  causing 
death.  In  order  so  far  as  possible  to  prevent  such  an  unfortunate 
complication,  the  wound  should  be  carefully  cleansed  with  a  mild 
solution  of  carbolic  acid,  then"  dusted  over  with  iodoform  before  the 
bandages  are  applied,  and  cleansed  and  dressed  daily  in  the  same 
way.  After  dressing,  always  cover  with  absorbent  cotton.  In  the 
early  process  of  union  an  exudation  of  lymph  takes  place,  which  is 
at  first  fluid,  gradually  becoming  thicker  and  firmer  till  it  forms  a 
callus,  loiown  as  the  external  or  ensheathing  callus,  in  the  shape  of 
a  ring  or  ferrule  surrounding  the  detached  portions  of  the  bone.  It 
occasionally  happens  that  this  callus  forms  only  at  the  ends  of  the 
bones,  filling  the  spaces  that  exist  between  them,  when  it  is  known 
as  the  intermediate  callus.  The  process  of  union  may  be  divided  into 
five  stages.  In  the  first  stage,  including  the  first  eight  days,  the  de- 
tached portions  of  the  bone  and  the  sharp  projections  that  are  not 
sufficiently  nourished  are  absorbed;  the  blood  which  escaped  into  the 
surrounding  tissues,  the  result  of  the  injury,  is  gradually  absorbed, 
and  the  effused  lymph,  which  is  ultimately  to  constitute  the  tem- 
porary cartilage,  takes  it  place.  In  the  second  stage,  from  the  tenth 
to  the  twentieth  clay,  the  tumor  or  callus  is  formed  and  fibrocartilago 
is  developed  inside  and  around  the  exposed  end  of  the  bone.  In  the 
third  stage,  extending  from  the  twentieth  to  the  fortieth  or  fiftieth 
day,  according  to  the  age  and  strength  of  the  animal,  the  fibrocar- 
tilaginous structure  undergoes  a  change  and  is  gradually  converted 
into  bone,  forming  a  ferrule  on  the  outside  and  a  plug  on  the  inside, 
33071°— 16 18 


274  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

which  serve  to  hold  the  part  m  position.  In  the  fourth  stage,  ex- 
tending to  about  the  sixth  month,  the  whole  of  the  new  structure  is 
converted  into  bone.  In  the  fifth  stage,  extending  to  the  end  of  the 
first  year,  the  callus  is  absorbed,  being  no  longer  necessary,  and 
the  connection  between  the  cavities  of  the  two  bones  is  again 
established. 

Common  complications. — The  process  of  union  just  described  is 
healthy  and  normal.  Diseased  conditions  may  at  any  time  supervene 
during  the  treatment  and  render  the  operation  unsuccessful.  In  the 
case  of  compound  fracture,  the  open  wound  communicating  with  the 
ends  of  the  bones,  a  septic  condition  is  liable  to  arise  which  may  be- 
come so  serious  as  to  endanger  the  animal's  life  and  bring  about  con- 
ditions which  in  human  surgery  would  indicate  amputation. 
Although  that  operation  is  not  a  general  one  in  veterinary  practice, 
there  is  no  reason  why  it  should  not  be  attempted  as  a  last  resort, 
particularly  if  the  animal  is  valuable  or  is  one  whose  existence  is 
necessary  in  order  to  perpetuate  some  valuable  strain.  Even  in  the 
simplest  form  of  fracture,  if  the  splints  or  bandages  are  improperly 
applied  and  the  fractured  bone  left  so  loosely  guarded  that  the 
broken  ends  move  one  upon  another,  the  formation  of  the  calluses 
previously  described  is  liable  to  be  interfered  witli,  and  in  place  of 
a  strong,  rigid,  and  healthy  union  a  formation  of  elastic  cartilage  is 
the  result.  This  false  structure  unites  the  broken  ends  of  the  bones 
in  such  way  that  they  move  one  upon  another,  depriving  the  bone  of 
its  stability  and  usefuln«^ss.  When  once  the  healthy  process  of  union 
is  interrupted  in  the  manner  just  described,  it  is  again  established 
with  great  difficulty.  It  no  longer  does  any  good  to  continue  the 
restraining  power;  in  fact,  the  change  of  the  temporary  cartilage  into 
bone  is  more  liable  to  be  reestablished  if  the  parts  move  violently  upon 
oach  other  for  a  short  time  so  as  to  set  up  and  renew  the  process  of 
inflammation.  Then  if  the  restraint  is  again  applied  there  is  some 
chance  of  union.  In  order  so  far  as  possible  to  avoid  this  danger, 
care  should  be  taken  to  see  that  the  bandage  fits  closely  and  that  it 
is  kept  on  till  there  is  no  longer  any  danger  but  that  a  perfect  union 
has  taken  place.  It  is  impossible  to  say  at  just  what  time  the  splints 
or  bandages  can  safely  be  removed.  In  a  young  and  healthy  animal 
of  quiet  temperament,  if  the  parts  have  been  firmly  held  in  position 
throughout  the  whole  time,  from  30  to  40  days  may  be  regarded  as 
reasonably  safe.  Under  more  unfavorable  conditions  as  to  age, 
vitality,  and  restraint,  the  period  would  better  be  extended  to  60  days, 
if  the  general  condition  of  the  animal  is  such  as  to  permit  of  so  long 
a  continuance.  After  the  appliance  has  been  removed  the  animal 
should  be  allowed  to  stand  quiet  for  a  few  days,  then  be  given  very 
gentle  exercise,  gradually  increased  for  a  week  or  10  days,  by  which 
time  the  patient  will  be  so  far  recovered  as  to  be  placed  in  pasture. 


bones:  diseases  and  accidents.  275 

It  should,  however,  be  alone  for  a  time,  so  as  not  to  take  any  chance 
of  injury  from  fighting  or  other  accidents  that  association  with  other 
animals  might  involve. 

SPECIAL  fractures. 

Fracture  or  the  horns. — Of  the  special  fractures  liable  to  occur, 
that  of  the  horn  is  perhaps  the  most  common.  It  is  always  the  result 
of  violent  mechanical  means,  such  as  blows,  injury  occurring  while 
fighting,  or  from  the  animal  getting  its  head  locked  in  some  manner 
while  feeding  from  a  rack.  When  it  occurs  there  are  two  ways  in 
which  the  injury  may  affect  the  animal.  First  and  most  common, 
the  horny  crust  is  liable  to  be  stripped  from  the  bony  projection 
which  it  covers.  Second,  the  crust  and  bone  may  both  be  broken  or 
bent  down,  the  fracture  occurring  in  that  case  at  the  root  of  the  horn 
and  involving  part  of  the  bones  of  the  head  in  the  immediate  vicinity. 
In  the  first  case,  if  the  horny  covering  is  knocked  off,  little  atten- 
tion is  necessary.  The  animal  may  be  relieved  from  suffering  if 
the  stump  is  smeared  with  pine  tar  and  wrapped  in  cloth.  If  the 
core  is  much  lacerated,  perhaps  it  would  be  better  to  amputate. 
The  necessity  for  such  operation  must  be  determined  by  the  condi- 
tion of  the  injury,  influenced  to  some  extent  by  the  owner's  ideas 
on  the  subject.  When  the  operation  is  performed,  it  should  be 
done  with  a  sharp,  fine-toothed  saw,  and  by  sawing  the  horn  off  close 
enough  to  include  a  little  of  the  skin  and  hair  around  its  base.  The 
practice  of  dehorning  has  grown  popular  in  many  parts  of  the  coun- 
try. It  is  a  simple  operation,  and,  although  attended  with  some 
immediate  suffering,  does  not  produce  serious  constitutional  disturb- 
ance. The  advisability  of  performing  the  operation  on  all  cattle  is  a 
question  of  expediency  and  must  be  justified  by  the  expectation  of 
benefit  on  the  part  of  the  feeder.  If  the  horn  should  be  broken  so 
that  the  core  and  crust  are  bent  out  of  shape  without  the  detachment 
of  one  from  the  other,  it  may  be  restored  to  its  normal  position  and 
retained  there  by  means  of  a  splint  made  to  fit  across  the  back  of  the 
head,  so  as  to  be  laced  to  both  horns,  the  sound  horn  serving  to  hold 
the  broken  one  in  position.  Such  a  splint  may  be  fastened  on  by 
means  of  either  a  wire  or  cord  and  allowed  to  remain  six  weeks  or  two 
months. 

If  both  the  horn  and  core  have  been  broken  off,  bleeding  is  usually 
severe  and  should  be  checked  by  astringents,  such  as  alum,  or  by 
pressure.  After  the  liemorrhage  has  ceased  the  exposed  portion  of 
the  fracture  should  be  covered  with  pine  tar,  with  or  without  a  ban- 
dage. An  imperfect  growth  of  horn  will  in  due  time  cover  the 
exposed  bone. 

Fractures  or  the  bones  or  the  face. — These  occasionally  occur, 
and  when  over  the  cavities  of  the  nose  produce  depression,  disfigure- 


276  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

ment,  and  impeded  respiration,  owing  to  the  lessening  of  the  caliber 
of  the  nasal  passages. 

"Wlien  such  accident  occurs,  the  depressed  bone  should  be  gently 
forced  back  to  i^lace  by  introducing  the  finger  in  the  nostril,  or  if 
the  fracture  is  too  far  up  for  this,  a  probe  may  be  passed  and  the 
parts  retained  by  placing  immediately  over  it  a  plaster  of  thin  leather 
or  strong  canvas  smeared  with  tar,  extending  out  to  the  sound  sur- 
roundings, taking  care  to  embed  the  hair  over  the  fractured  portion 
in  the  tar  of  the  plaster,  so  that  it  will  be  firmly  held  and  prevented 
from  again  becoming  depressed.  If  only  one  nostril  is  involved, 
the  depressed  portion  may  be  held  in  position  by  packing  that 
nostril  with  absorbent  cotton.  This  practice,  however,  has  the 
objection  of  giving  the  animal  great  discomfort  and  in  some  cases 
a  disposition  to  aggravate  the  injury. 

Fracture  of  the  skull  ( cranium). — Fractures  of  the  bones  form- 
ing the  cavity  in  wdiicli  the  brain  is  situated  are,  owing  to  their 
strength,  comparatively  rare  among  cattle.  Such  an  accident  can 
only  be  the  result  of  external  violence,  and  it  is  hardly  possible  that 
it  could  occur  without  some  fragment  of  the  broken  bone  pressing 
upon  the  brain  so  as  to  cause  coma  or  other  severe  nervous  derange- 
ment, or  even  death. 

If  the  animal  survives  the  first  shock,  the  efforts  should  be  directed 
toward  relieving  the  pressure,  which  may  be  done  by  making  an 
opening  in  the  bone  (trephining),  and  wath  a  hook  drawing  the 
depressed  part  outward.  Interference  is  not  so  liable  to  be  attended 
with  good  results  as  to  be  warranted  in  all  cases.  The  effects  of  a 
very  severe  shock  wdiich  may  not  have  produced  a  fracture,  although 
the  symptoms  were  alarming,  will  in  many  cases  pass  off,  leaving 
the  animal  in  a  better  condition  than  if  an  operation  had  been  per- 
formed. 

Fracture  of  the  lower  jaw. — This  occasionally  occurs,  and  is 
more  liable  to  result  from  the  kick  of  a  horse  than  from  any  other 
cause.  The  front  part  of  the  jaw  may  be  split  or  shattered  in  any 
direction  in  wdiich  the  force  may  have  been  applied.  Bloody  dis- 
charges from  the  mouth  and  failure  to  eat  or  ruminate  are  symp- 
toms most  likely  to  attract  attention. 

The  treatment  is  simple  and  consists  in  first  removing  detached 
pieces  of  bone,  then  draAving  the  parts  together  and  retaining  them 
by  means  of  pieces  of  copper  wire  fastened  around  the  teeth,  and 
feeding  the  animal  on  sloppy  feed  until  recovery  takes  place.  The 
wound  should  be  dressed  once  or  twice  a  day  wdth  a  3  per  cent  solu- 
tion of  cai'bolic  acid,  for-ced  gently  in  with  a  syi-inge,  so  as  to  remove 
any  feed  which  may  have  become  impacted  and  interfere  w^ith  the 
healing  process. 


bones:  diseases  and  accidents.  277 

Fracture  or  the  vertebra  (spinal  column). — This  is  not  so 
common  among  cattle  as  other  animals.  If  the  fracture  should  be 
through  the  body  of  the  bone,  there  may  be  pressure  on  or  laceration 
of  the  spinal  cord,  causing  paralysis  of  all  parts  posterior  to  the 
seat  of  injury.  Fractures  of  the  prominences  on  the  vertebra  occa- 
sionally occur  M'ithout  interfering  with  the  canal  in  which  the  spinal 
cord  is  situated.  Such  accidents  are  liable  to  pass  unnoticed,  for, 
although  the  animal  may  suffer  considerable  pain,  it  may  not  be 
manifested  in  such  way  as  to  attract  attention,  and  the  deep  covering 
of  muscles  serves  effectually  to  conceal  the  injury.  When  the  frac- 
ture occurs  in  the  upper  part  of  the  neck,  paralysis  of  the  muscles 
used  in  respiration  must  result,  and  death  from  asphyxia  very 
shortly  ensues.  The  more  common  accident  is  to  the  loins,  and 
when  a  fracture  of  the  body  of  the  vertebra  occurs  in  this  region 
so  as  to  produce  pressure  on  the  spinal  cord,  paralysis  of  the  hind 
legs  and  quarters  is  the  result.  Diagnosis  of  such  an  accident  is 
more  difficult  than  in  the  case  of  any  other  fracture.  The  parts  can 
not  be  moved  one  upon  another  so  that  crepitus  is  noticeable.  The 
heavy  coating  of  muscles  conceals  irregularities  of  shape,  which 
otherwise  may  attract  attention.  About  the  only  reliable  symptom 
is  paralysis  or  loss  of  use  and  sensation  of  the  parts  posterior  to  the 
injury.  Careful  examination  may  reveal  the  seat  of  the  injury.  If 
it  was  the  result  of  a  blow,  there  may  be  some  abrasion  of  the  skin. 
The  diagnosis  is  only  important  as  an  aid  in  determining  the  proper 
course  to  pursue. 

If  paralysis  is  present  and  a  depression  or  irregularity  of  the 
spinal  column  is  so  apparent  as  to  leave  no  doubt  of  the  existence 
of  a  fracture,  the  only  alternative  is  to  destroy  the  animal,  for  of 
recovery  there  can  be  no  hope.  If,  on  the  other  hand,  the  paralysis 
is  incomplete  and  there  is  no  depression  or  irregidarity  of  the  spinal 
column  or  other  evidence  of  fracture,  the  patient  should  be  made  as 
comfortable  as  possible  by  being  placed  in  a  well-bedded  box  stall 
and  a  few  days  permitted  to  elapse  before  the  case  is  abandoned. 
The  symptoms  last  described  may  possibly  be  the  result  of  a  severe 
strain  of  the  muscles  of  the  loins,  in  which  case  an  improvement  will 
soon  be  noticeable. 

Fractures  of  the  pelvis. — The  pelvis,  or  bony  framework  which 
gives  shape  to  the  posterior  part  of  the  body,  is  liable  to  fracture  in 
many  ways.  A  common  one  is  by  a  separation  of  the  two  bones 
which  constitute  the  whole  pelvis  along  the  bottom  and  center  line 
(symphysis  pubis).  In  early  life  the  two  bones  are  separate  and 
distinct.  The  union  between  them,  which  is  at  first  cartilaginous, 
undergoes  a  change  and  is  converted  into  bone,  so  that  in  adult  life 
the  whole  pelvis  is  practically  one  bone.     The  point  on  which  the 


278  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

two  bones  are  united  is  weaker  than  the  adjoining  parts  of  the  bone. 
When  an  animal  slips  violently,  spreading  the  legs  wide  apart,  the 
weaker  materials  give  way  and  the  bones  are  divided.  If  the  acci- 
dent is  noticed  w^hen  it  occurs,  it  is  likely  to  throw  light  on  the 
nature  of  the  injury.  The  animal  will  immediately  go  stiff  behind, 
the  legs  being  spread  apart.  Further  examination  may  be  made  by 
introducing  the  hand,  previously  carefully  oiled,  into  the  rectum  or 
vagina  and  pressing  down  along  the  central  line,  which  will  cause 
the  patient  to  evince  acute  pain.  In  this  case  no  appliance  can  be 
used  to  advantage.  The  animal  should  be  tied  in  a  stall  until  the 
parts  become  reunited  and  the  lameness  disappears. 

Fracture  of  the  posterior  parts  of  the  bone  (ischium),  which  forms 
the  point  of  the  buttocks  occasionally  occurs.  The  buttock  on  the 
injured  side  will  be  less  prominent  than  the  other.  Careful  manipu- 
lation will  generally  move  the  parts  so  that  crepitus  may  be  recog- 
nized. If  the  fracture  is  through  the  posterior  part  of  the  bone,  it  is 
unimportant  and  deserving  of  no  more  attention  than  placing  the 
animal  in  such  position  as  to  insure  it  against  subsequent  injury  until 
the  bones  are  united.  Some  distortion  may  result,  but  not  sufficient 
to  warrant  interference. 

.Fracture  through  the  body  of  the  bone  on  a  line  with  the  hip  joint 
(acetabulum)  occasionally,  though  rarely,  occurs,  and  is  nearh^  al- 
ways associated  with  dislocation  of  the  hip  joint  and  the  forcing  of 
the  head  of  the  upper  bone  of  the  leg  (femur)  upward,  far  out  of 
its  place.  The  violent  contraction  of  the  powerful  muscles  of  the  hip 
renders  it  impossible  to  reduce  the  dislocation,  and  even  if  it  were 
possible  the  fractured  pelvis  could  not  be  held  in  position,  so  that 
the  case  becomes  at  once  hopeless.  It  may  be  recognized  by  the 
animal's  standing  on  three  legs,  the  leg  on  the  injured  side  seeming 
shorter  than  its  fellow  and  hanging  pendulous,  the  muscles  of  the 
hip  violently  contracted  and  hard  to  the  touch.  The  animal  evinces 
great  pain  when  the  limb  is  moved.  There  is  liable  to  be  some 
apparent  distortion  in  the  relations  between  the  point  of  the  hip  and 
the  point  of  the  buttock.  This  Avill  be  more  readily  noticed  by  com- 
paring the  injured  side  with  the  other.  The  parts  may  be  moved  so 
as  to  produce  crepitus.  The  examination  may^be  completed  by  intro- 
ducing the  oiled  hand  into  the  vagina  or  rectum,  when  the  two  sides 
of  the  pelvis  will  reveal  well-marked  differences. 

Fracture  of  the  point  or  the  hip. — The  anterior  and  external 
part  of  the  pelvis  (ilium),  commonly  known  as  the  point  of  the  hip, 
is  liable  to  fracture,  which  stock  owners  describe  as  "  hipping,"  or 
being  "  hipped,"  or  having  the  hip  "  knocked  down."  This  accident 
may  be  the  result  of  crowding  while  passing  through  a  narrow  door, 
of  falling  violently  on  the  point  of  the  hip,  or  from  a  violent  blow 
directed  downward  and  forward  against  it.     The  lesion  generally 


bones:  diseases  and  accidents.  279 

extends  across  the  flat  surface  of  the  bone  from  its  outer  and  poste- 
rior edge  forward  and  inward.  Distortion  is  liable  to  be  the  only 
noticeable  symptom.  The  detached  portion  varies  in  size  in  different 
cases  and  with  it  the  resulting  deformity.  The  animal  is  noticed  to 
be  slightly  lame,  but  this  symptom  soon  disappears.  The  detached 
portion  of  the  bone  is  drawn  downward  and  away  from  the  main 
part  by  the  action  of  the  muscles  below,  which  are  so  powerful  as  to 
render  return  impossible.  The  bones  therefore  remain  permanently 
separated,  union  taking  place  by  fibrous  callus.  The  animal  suffers 
very  little  inconvenience,  and  for  practical  use  may  be  as  serviceable 
as  before  the  accident,  though  the  distorted  appearance  depreciates 
its  value. 

Fracture  of  the  ribs. — Such  an  occurrence  can  take  place  only 
as  the  result  of  a  direct  injury,  as  from  blows  or  crowding.  The  pos- 
terior ribs,  being  more  exposed,  are  more  liable  to  fracture.  Pain  in 
moving,  slight  swelling  over  the  seat  of  injury,  and  difficult  breathing 
are  obvious  symptoms.  If  the  fracture  is  complete,  crepitation  may 
be  occasionally  noticed  by  placing  the  hand  flat  over  the  injured 
part,  carefully  observing  the  motion  as  the  chest  contracts  and  ex- 
pands during  respiration.  This  symptom  is  more  noticeable  when  the 
animal  coughs.  Unless  the  point  of  the  broken  bone  penetrates  the 
cavity  of  the  chest  the  fracture  is  usually  unimportant  and  calls  for 
no  treatment  other  than  quiet.  If  the  breathing  is  very  labored  and 
attended  with  much  pain,  motion  may  be  limited  by  applying  a  wide 
bandage  firmly  around  the  chest.  The  animal  should  be  restricted 
in  the  amount  of  feed  and  water  for  a  few  days,  the  stomach  being 
kept  as  nearly  empty  as  possible.  Sloppy  feed  should  be  given  to 
encourage,  as  much  as  possible,  free  action  of  the  diaphragm  in 
breathing. 

Fracture  or  bones  of  the  limbs. — On  this  subject  much  has  been 
said  in  the  preceding  remarks  on  general  fractures.  As  a  rule, 
fracture  through  one  of  the  large  bones  of  the  shoulder  (scapula)  or 
thigh  (femur)  is  very  difficult  to  manage.  The  powerful  contraction 
of  the  muscles  and  the  changing  shape  of  the  limb  resulting  from 
their  action  renders  it  impossible  to  retain  the  detached  parts  of  the 
bone  in  proper  position.  Therefore,  though  the  union  should  take 
place,  there  is  almost  sure  to  be  considerable  deformity  and  more  or 
less  lameness.  Fracture  of  the  arm  (humerus)  or  leg  (tibia)  is 
likely  to  be  attended  with  better  results.  The  muscular  covering  is 
not  so  thick,  the  sheath  in  which  they  are  held  is  more  tense,  and  the 
change  in  the  shape  of  the  limb  from  muscular  action  not  so  notice- 
able, the  muscular  force  not  so  great,  all  of  which  facilitate  replac- 
ing the  dislodged  ends  and  retaining  them. 

Fracture  of  the  knee  (carpus)  and  hock  (tarsus). — This  sel- 
dom occurs  unless  it  is  the  result  of  a  very  violent  injury,  and  is  gen- 


280  DISEASES    OF    CATTEE. 

erally  associated  M'ith  other  injury  and  serious  complications.  Dis- 
placement does  not  generally  occur  to  any  considerable  extent.  The 
treatment,  of  course,  consists  in  holding  the  limb  perfectly  quiet 
in  a  natural  position,  which  may  be  done  by  the  application  of  long, 
wooden  splints  retained  by  bandages,  or  a  plaster-of-Paris  bandage. 

Fractures  below  the  knee. — Fracture  of  the  long  bone  below  the 
knee  (metacarpus)  and  hock  (metatarsus)  is  more  common.  In 
young  animals  of  quiet  temperament  the  treatment  of  simple  frac- 
tures here  is  likely  to  be  attended  with  good  results.  On  the  other 
hand,  a  compound  fracture  in  this  region  becomes  a  serious  matter. 
The  structures  which  surround  the  bones  are  so  thin  that  a  very  small 
degree  of  sloughing  will  expose  parts  of  the  bones  and  be  liable  to 
lead  to  serious  complications  and  probably  fatal  results. 

Fractures  or  bones  below  the  fetlock. — These  fractures  are  com- 
paratively unimportant  unless  associated  with  other  serious  injury. 
The  parts  can  generally  be  held  in  position  without  much  difficulty, 
and  union  generally  takes  place  quite  rapidly. 

Appliances. — Of  the  appliances  used  in  the  treatment  of  the  frac- 
ture of  limbs  above  the  knee,  splints  made  of  wood  or  iron  strips  and 
bandages  are  likely  to  serve  best.  Below  the  knee  plaster-of-Paris 
bandages  are  preferable.  The  writer  is  well  aware  that  many  of 
the  standard  authors  deprecate  the  use  of  the  latter,  but  an  extensive 
experience  leads  me  to  believe  that  they  have  many  advantages  over 
any  of  the  other  appliances  when  used  alone,  and  in  many  ways  they 
may  be  used  with  advantage  in  combination  with  others. 

DISLOCATIONS. 

Luxation,  or  displacement  without  fracture  of  the  bones  form- 
ing a  joint,  is  comparatively  rare  among  cattle.  It  most  frequently 
occurs  in  the  stifle  joint,  where  dislocation  of  the  kneepan  (patella) 
takes  place.  A  glance  at  the  skeleton  (PI.  XXV)  will  show  the  rela- 
tions better  than  they  can  be  described.  It  Avill  be  observed  that 
the  small,  irregularly  shaped  bone  (patella)  plays  on  the  anterior 
rounded  part  of  the  lower  edge  of  the  thigh  bone  (femur)  and  be- 
tween it  and  the  upper  end  of  the  shank  bone  (tibia).  The  outer 
ridge  on  the  lower  end  of  the  thigh  bone  is  less  prominent  than  the 
inner  one,  so  that  displacement,  when  it  does  take  place,  is  by  slip- 
])ing  outward.  Such  an  accident  may  occur  from  direct  injury  or 
external  force,  as  a  blow,  or  from  slipping.  When  it  does  occur 
the  symptoms  produced  are  somewhat  alarming.  The  animal  is 
imable  to  draw  the  leg  forward,  and  either  stands  with  it  thrown 
back  with  the  toe  pointing  downward,  or,  if  it  should  succeed  in 
getting  its  weight  upon  it,  holds  it  firmly  on  the  ground,  fearing  to 
move  it.  Examination  of  the  outside  of  the  joint  will  disclose  the 
situation  of  the  patella  outside  its  proper  place.     If  the  operator 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  XXV. 


BONES:    DISEASES   AND   ACCIDENTS.  281 

is  not  familiar  with  the  normal  appearance  of  the  joint,  it  is  well 
to  make  a  comparison  between  the  injured  and  the  sound  one.  If 
compelled  to  move,  the  animal  does  so  with  great  difficulty,  jerking 
the  leg  which  it  is  unable  to  bring  forward,  hopping  with  the  other, 
and  partially  dragging  the  injured  one. 

Treatment. — The  treatment  is  simple.  A  rope  20  feet  long  should 
be  applied  around  the  fetlock  of  the  affected  leg,  passed  forward  be- 
tween the  front  legs  and  up  over  the  opposite  side  of  the  neck,  back 
over  the  withers,  and  wrapped  once  behind  the  elbow  around  that 
portion  of  the  rope  which  passes  between  the  front  legs.  The  leg  is 
then  drawn  away  from  the  body  and  forcibly  pushed  forward  by 
an  assistant,  while  another  person  tightens  up  the  slack  in  the  rope 
until  the  affected  leg  is  off  the  ground  in  front  of  the  supporting  leg. 
The  rope  is  then  drawn  taut  and  the  assistant  grasps  the  tail  and 
pulls  the  cow  toward  the  affected  side.  The  animal  makes  a  lurch 
to  keep  from  falling,  contracts  the  muscles,  and  the  patella  slips 
into  place  with  a  sharp  click,  and  the  animal  walks  off  as  if  nothing 
had  happened.  If  the  animal  resists  this  method  of  handling,  it 
may  suffice  to  manipulate  the  dislocated  kneepan  by  shoving  it  in- 
ward and  forward  with  the  heel  of  the  hand  while  the  affected  leg 
is  drawn  well  forward.  Unless  some  precaution  is  taken  the  acci- 
dent is  liable  to  recur,  as  the  ligaments  have  been  stretched  by  the 
dislocation  till  they  no  longer  hold  the  bone  with  that  firmness  neces- 
sary to  retain  it.  The  animal  should  be  tied  and  the  foot  fastened 
forward,  so  that  the  patient  can  just  stand  on  it  comfortably,  by 
means  of  a  rope  or  strap  around  the  fetlock  carried  forward  between 
the  front  legs,  around  the  neck,  and  tied  on  the  breast. 

Should  this  accident  occur  more  than  once  it  is  a  good  practice  to 
apply  a  blister  around  the  joint,  as  in  the  formula  recommended  for 
sprain  of  shoulder,  and  observe  the  precautions  as  to  restraint  and 
subsequent  treatment  there  recommended.  With  this  one  exception 
dislocations  in  the  ox  occurring  independently  of  other  complications 
are  rare. 

Dislocation  with  fracture  may  occur  in  any  of  the  joints,  and  if 
one  is  suspected  or  discovered,  examination  should  always  be  made 
for  the  other  before  treatment  is  applied.  When  a  fracture  occurs 
near  a  joint  the  force  sufficient  to  rend  the  bone  is  liable  to  be  partly 
exerted  on  the  immediate  tissues,  and  when  the  bone  gives  way  the 
structures  of  the  joints  may  be  seriously  injured.  It  occasionally 
happens  that  the  injury  to  the  joint  becomes  the  most  important  com- 
plication in  the  treatment  of  a  fracture.  In  order  clearly  to  under- 
stand the  reason  for  this  a  few  words  are  necessary''  in  relation  to  the 
structure  of  joints.    - 

The  different  pieces  constituting  the  skeleton  of  the  animal  body 
are  united  in  such  manner  as  to  admit  of  more  or  less  motion  one 


282  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

upon  another.  In  some  of  the  more  simple  joints  the  bones  fitting 
one  into  another  are  held  together  by  the  dense  structures  around 
them,  admitting  of  very  little  or  no  movement  at  all,  as  the  bones  of 
the  head.  In  other  joints  the  bones  are  bound  together  by  dense,  car- 
tilaginous structures,  admitting  of  only  limited  motion,  such  as  the 
union  of  the  small  bones  at  the  back  part  of  the  knee  and  hock  (meta- 
carpal and  metatarsal) .  In  the  more  nearly  perfect  form  of  joint  the 
power  of  motion  becomes  complete  and  the  structures  are  more  com- 
plex. The  substance  of  the  bone  on  its  articular  surface  is  not  cov- 
ered with  periosteum,  but  is  sheathed  in  a  dense,  thin  layer  of  carti- 
lage, shaped  to  fit  the  other  surfaces  with  which  it  comes  in  contact 
(articular).  This  layer  is  thickest  toward  its  center  when  covering 
bony  eminences,  and  is  elastic,  of  a  pearly  whiteness,  and  resisting, 
though  soft  enough  to  be  easily  cut.  The  bones  forming  an  articula- 
tion are  bound  together  by  numerous  ligaments  attached  to  bony 
prominences.  The  whole  joint  is  sealed  in  by  a  band  or  ribbonlike 
ligament  (capsular  ligament)  extending  around  the  joint  and  at- 
tached at  the  outer  edge  of  the  articular  surface,  uniting  the  bones 
and  hermetically  sealing  the  cavities  of  the  articulation.  This  struc- 
ture and  the  articular  surface  of  the  bone  is  covered  by  a  thin,  deli- 
cate membrane,  known  as  the  "  synovial  membrane,"  which  secretes 
the  joint  oil  (synovia).  This  fluid  is  viscid  and  colorless,  or  slightly 
yellow,  and  although  it  does  not  possess  a  large  quantity  of  fat,  its 
character  somewhat  resembles  oil,  and  it  serves  the  same  purpose  in 
lubricating  the  joints  that  oil  does  to  the  friction  surface  of  an 
engine.  Although  the  tissues  of  the  joint  when  used  in  a  natural 
way  are  able  to  withstand  the  effect  of  great  exertion,  when  un- 
naturally used,  as  they  are  very  delicate  and  complex,  they  are  liable 
to  inflammatory  and  other  changes  of  a  very  serious  nature.  The 
synovial  membrane,  and  in  fact  the  whole  structure  of  the  joint, 
is  susceptible  to  injury  and  serious  inflammatory  derangement,  and 
the  capsular  ligament  is  liable  to  be  distended  from  excessive  secre- 
tion of  synovia.  The  latter  process  may  be  almost  noninflammatory, 
and  attended  with  little  inconvenience  or  importance  other  than  a 
blemish  to  the  animal,  which  in  cattle  is  not  serious.  It  may  occur 
on  the  back  part  of  the  leg  above  the  fetlock  or  on  the  inner  and  fore 
part  of  the  hock,  corresponding  in  its  location  to  windgalls  and  bog 
spavin  of  the  horse.  Continuous  support  by  bandages  will  generally 
force  reabsorption,  and  as  the  limb  is  not  subjected  to  violent  action, 
as  in  the  case  of  the  horse,  the  affection  is  not  so  liable  to  recur. 

SPAVIN. 

Occasionally  working  oxen  that  are  used  in  the  lumber  woods  and 
made  to  pull  heavily,  with  bad  footing,  are  afflicted  with  this  con- 
dition.    When  it  occurs  lameness  is  the  first  symptom.     During  the 


bones:  diseases  and  accidents.  283 

early  stages  of  the  disease  the  himeness  is  most  severe  in  the  morning, 
and  disappears  after  the  animal  is  exercised;  it  gradually  becomes 
more  severe  as  the  disease  advances,  so  that  when  the  disease  is  vt^ell 
established  the  animal  is  lame  continuously.  Shortly  after  the  lame- 
ness appears  a  bunch  (exostosis)  will  be  noticed  on  the  inner  and  fore 
part  of  the  affected  joint.  This  bunch  differs  from  bog  spavin  in  that 
it  is  hard,  while  bog  spavin  is  soft.  It  increases  in  size  as  the  disease 
advances  till  the  animal  is  too  lame  to  be  used  for  labor.  As  the  dis- 
ease is  always  attended  with  considerable  pain  there  is  more  or  less 
loss  of  flesh.  In  the  most  advanced  stage  the  animal  will  step  with 
difficulty,  frequently  holding  the  foot  from  the  ground,  or,  if  forced 
to  take  a  few  steps,  stands  with  it  elevated,  twitching  with  pain.  In 
the  earlier  stages  of  the  disease  only  a  small  portion  of  the  fore  part 
of  the  lower,  or  second,  articulation  is  involved,  but  the  inflammatory 
process  gradually  extends  over  the  whole  surface  of  the  lower  joints 
of  the  hock.  The  structures  of  the  joint  are  broken  down  and  the 
bones  are  united  (anchylosis).  This  process  may  include  any  or  all 
of  the  three  lower  joints  of  the  hock.  The  joint  of  motion  which  is 
situated  on  the  lower  end  of  the  leg  bone  is  seldom  involved. 

Treatment. — Treatment  of  spavin  in  the  ox,  as  in  the  horse,  is 
likely  to  be  tedious,  and  not  always  resulting  in  perfect  cure.  Usu- 
ally it  is  best  to  fatten  the  animal  for  slaughter.  If,  however,  treat- 
ment is  decided  upon,  it  should  consist  of  complete  rest  and  counter- 
irritation  of  the  part  either  by  sharp  blisters  or  the  firing  iron.  It 
is  advisable  to  try  the  effect  of  blistering  first,  and  for  this  purpose 
the  following  mixture  is  recommended : 

Powdered  cantharides drams 2 

Biniodid  of  mercury do 2 

Vaseline ounces 1* 

Clip  the  hair  off  and  apply  over  the  inner  and  fore  part  of  the  joint, 
covering  the  surface  an  inch  and  a  half  in  every  direction  from  the 
enlargement,  or  over  an  area  3  to  4  inches  across.  Fasten  the  ani- 
mal's head  so  that  it  can  not  reach  the  part  to  lick  it ;  after  the  third 
day  grease  with  lard  every  other  day  until  the  scabs  come  off.  This 
blister  may  be  repeated  three  or  four  times  at  intervals  of  three 
weeks.  The  lameness  will  generally  begin  to  disappear  about  the 
third  or  fourth  month  if  the  above-described  treatment  proves  bene- 
ficial. Should  lameness  persist,  firing  in  points  by  a  qualified  veteri- 
narian may  effect  the  desired  result  and  should  be  tried  as  a  last 
resort. 

In  a  case  of  spavin  the  cure  is  not  effected  by  restoring  the  diseased 
parts  to  their  natural  condition,  but  by  uniting  the  bones  and  obliter- 
ating the  joints.  If  this  union  extends  over  the  whole  articular  sur- 
face of  the  joints  affected  and  is  sufficiently  strong  to  prevent  any 
motion  of  the  bones,  the  animal  will  again  go  sound.     The  joints 


284  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

that  are  obliterated,  not  being  those  of  motion,  are  not  important,  so 
that  the  animal  suffers  no  inconvenience  in  their  loss. 

RHEUMATISM. 

Rhemnatism  is  a  constitutional  disease  from  a  specific  condition 
of  the  blood  and  characterized  by  inflammation  of  the  fibrous  struc- 
tures of  the  body.  It  is  usually  accompanied  with  stiffness,  lameness, 
and  fever.  The  parts  affected  are  usually  SAVollen,  but  swelling  may 
be  lacking.  The  inflammation  may  be  transitory ;  that  is,  it  changes 
from  place  to  place.  The  parts  usually  affected  are  the  fibrous  struc- 
tures of  the  joints,  tendons,  ligaments,  and  muscles.  The  serous 
membranes  and  heart  may  also  be  affected.  According  to  its  loca- 
tion, rheumatism  is  specified  as  articular  or  muscular.  According 
to  its  course,  it  is  designated  as  acute  or  chronic. 

Cause. — Among  the  factors  which  are  actively  causative  of  rheuma- 
tism may  be  mentioned  exposure  to-  dampness  and  cold,  especially 
while  the  animal  is  perspiring  or  fatigued  after  severe  physical  exer- 
tion. Among  other  causes  often  mentioned  are  acidity  of  the  blood, 
nervous  derangement,  microbes,  and  injufies.  It  occasionally  follows 
another  disease,  such  as  pleurisy.  The  influence  of  age  and  heredity 
may  be  considered  as  secondary  or  predisposing  causes.  Sometimes 
the  disease  appears  without  any  apparent  cause.  On  the  whole,  it 
may  be  said  that  any  of  the  above-mentioned  factors  may  have  more 
or  less  influence  on  the  production  of  rheumatism,  but  the  specific 
cause  is  as  yet  unknown. 

Symptoms  of  articular  rheumatism,. — The  symptoms  appear  sud- 
denly and  with  varying  degrees  of  severity.  The  animal  presents  a 
downcast  appearance,  with  staring  coat,  horns  and  ears  cold,  and  the 
mouth  and  muzzle  hot  and  dry.  Appetite  and  rumination  may  be 
impaired  and  followed  later  or  be  accompanied  at  the  same  time  by 
constipation.  Constipation  may  be  followed  by  impaction  of  the 
stomach  or  bowels.  Thirst  is  increased,  but  the  amount  of  urine 
voided  is  scanty.  Respiration  and  pulse  are  accelerated,  and  there  is 
usually  a  fever,  rising  sometimes  as  high  as  108°  F.  The  animal  pre- 
fers to  lie  down,  and  when  forced  to  rise  stands  with  its  back  arched. 
The  movements  are  stiff  and  lame  and  cause  great  pain.  The  disease 
may  attack  one  or  more  joints  at  the  same  time;  in  fact,  it  is  often 
symmetrical.  One  joint  may  improve  while  another  becomes  af- 
fected, thus  showing  the  shifting  tendency  of  the  inflammation.  The 
affected  joints,  including  tlieir  tendons,  ligaments,  and  synovial  mem- 
branes, may  be  swollen,  hot,  and  distended  with  liquid.  They  are 
very  tender,  and,  if  treated  carelessly  or  injured,  may  become  in- 
fected, thus  leading  to  suppuration.  While  rheumatism  attacks  per- 
haps more  frequently  the  knees  and  fetlocks,  it  has  no  special  affinity 


bones:  diseases  and  accidents.  285 

for  any  joint  and  may  attack  the  stifle,  liip,  shoulder,  or  elbow  joint. 
In  mild  cases  of  articular  rheumatism,  the  animal  may  fully  recover 
in  a  few  days. 

In  chronic  articular  rheumatism  there  is  less  tendency  of  the  dis- 
ease to  shift  about,  but  there  is  a  greater  liability  of  structural  change 
in  the  affected  joints.  This  change  may  consist  of  induration,  exos- 
tosis, or  even  anchylosis.  These  structural  changes  about  the  joints 
may  lead  to  permanent  deformity,  such  as  the  bending  of  the  neck. 
Fever  is  not  so  constant  in  the  chronic  form  as  in  the  acute,  and  the 
latter  may  lapse  into  the  former. 

SymptoTtis  of  muscular  rhev/matisTn. — This  form  of  rheumatistn 
may  appear  under  the  same  general  conditions  as  the  articular  form. 
The  general  appearance  of  the  animal  is  the  same  in  both  forms.  The 
cow  usually  assumes  a  recumbent  position,  and  all  the  movements 
made  are  stiff'  and  lame.  The  method  of  rising  or  of  locomotion  indi- 
cates pain  in  certain  muscles  or  groups  of  muscles,  as  of  the  croup, 
shoulder,  or  neck.  As  in  the  case  of  articular  rheumatism,  the 
tendons,  ligaments,  and  synovial  membranes  may  become  involved. 
The  constitutional  symptoms  in  both  articular  and  muscular  rheu- 
matism are  similar,  so  that  it  is  often  perplexing  to  differentiate  be- 
tween the  two  forms. 

Prevention. — It  is  somewhat  difficult  to  procure  preventive  treat- 
ment for  cattle,  especially  when  there  are  large  numbers  with  little 
or  no  shelter.  In  general,  it  is  advisable  to  protect  the  animals  so  far 
as  possible  from  inclement  weather  conditions,  such  as  cold  rains, 
heavy  dews,  and  frosts.  This  is  more  particularly  necessary  for  ani- 
mals in  poor  condition,  or  those  which  are  perspiring  or  fatigued 
after  long  physical  exertion.    Careful  feeding  is  also  essential. 

Treatment. — In  attempting  to  treat  cattle  for  rheumatism  the  first 
step  is  to  procure  proper  shelter  and  environment.  The  animal 
should  be  quartered  in  a  large,  clean,  dry  stall,  with  plenty  of  light 
and  fresh  air,  but  protected  from  strong  drafts.  There  should  be  an 
abundance  of  clean,  dry  bedding.  The  feed  should  be  soft,  easily 
digestible,  and  slightly  laxative,  and  the  animal  should  have  access  to 
clean,  pure,  cool  water. 

For  general  or  constitutional  treatment  of  acute  rheumatism, 
sodium  salicylate  is  indicated.  In  order  to  gain  the  best  results  from 
this  drug,  it  should  be  administered  with  the  idea  of  rapidly  saturat- 
ing the  sj^stem.  To  cattle  it  may  be  given  in  doses  of  one-half  ounce 
every  two  hours  for  ten  hours  or  until  immediate  relief  is  obtained. 
This  drug  should  not  be  continued  indefinitely,  but  may  be  given 
once  a  day  after  immediate  relief  has  been  obtained,  and  this  single 
dose  continued  daily  until  permanent  relief  ensues,  when  it  should 
be  stopped.  The  use  of  sodium  salicylate  in  chronic  rheumatism  is 
not  advisable  on  account  of  the  danger  of  depressing  the  heart,  whose 


286  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

action  is  already  somewhat  impaired  hj  the  lesions  which  have  at- 
tacked it.  In  this  case  one-half  ounce  doses  of  potassium  nitrate  or 
bicarbonate  may  be  given  three  times  a- day.  Besides  the  constitu- 
tional treatment,  it  may  be  necessary  to  give  special  attention  to  the 
bowels  in  order  to  relieve  constipation.  Cattle  may  be  given  saline 
laxatives  at  the  outset,  such  as  1  pound  of  Epsom  salt  for  an  ordi- 
nary-sized cow,  and  the  bowels  kept  regular  by  an  occasional  smaller 
dose. 

In  chronic  rheumatism  the  best  course  of  treatment  is  to  give  tonics 
and  local  treatment.  Local  treatment  may  also  be  advisable  in  acute 
rheumatism  in  addition  to  the  constitutional  treatment  already  pre- 
scribed. 

External  treatment  depends  solely  on  the  local  conditions  and 
should  be  applied  judiciously.  Among  the  various  remedies  may  be 
mentioned  hot  or  cold  moist  packs,  hot  air  and  vapor  baths,  friction, 
etc.  Anodynes  are  often  applied  locally  with  good  results.  Blisters 
are  occasionally  indicated.  As  anodynes  may  be  mentioned  liniments 
and  ointments  containing  salicylic  acid  or  sodium  salicylate  in  com- 
bination with  laudanum,  aconite,  or  chloral  hydrate.  Camphorated 
spirit,  soap  liniment,  and  essential  oils  also  afford  some  relief  when 
applied  locally.  Of  blisters,  those  containing  cantharides  are  most 
effective. 


SURGICAL  OPERATIONS. 

By  William  Dickson  and  William  Hekbkrt  Lowe,  D.  V.  S. 
[Revised  by  B.  T.  Woodward,  V.  M.  D.] 

Surgery  is  both  a  science  and  an  art.  The  success  of  surgical 
operations  depends  on  the  judgment,  skill,  and  dexterity,  as  well 
as  upon  the  knowledge  of  the  operator.  The  same  fundamental 
principles  underlie  and  govern  animal  and  human  surgery,  although 
their  applications  have  a  wide  range  and  are  very  different  in  many 
essential  particulars.  We  must  not  lose  sight  of  the  fact  that  hygiene 
and  sanitation  are  essential  to  the  best  results  in  veterinary  as  well 
as  in  human  surgery. 

Asepsis  is  an  ideal  condition  which,  although  not  always  possible 
in  animal  surgery,  is  highly  important  in  connection  with  the  me- 
chanical details  of  all  surgical  operations  in  proportion  to  the  nature 
and  seriousness  of  the  same. 

Aseptic  surgery  is  considered  to  be  the  performance  of  operations 
with  sterile  instruments  with  the  hands  of  the  operator  and  the  site 
of  operation  being  rendered  as  nearly  sterile  as  possible,  and  the 
wound  treated  during  operation  with  sterile  solutions  and  protected 
following  the  operation  with  sterile  bandage  material.  In  other 
words,  it  is  the  preservation  of  the  highest  degree  of  cleanliness  in 
connection  with  operations. 

Local  or  general  anesthesia  should  be  resorted  to  in  painful  and 
serious  surgical  operations,  as  operations  upon  all  living  creatures 
should  be  humanely  performed  and  all  unnecessary  pain  and  suffer- 
ing avoided.  Anesthesia  is  necessary  where  absolute  immobility  of 
the  patient  is  essential  and  where  entire  muscular  relaxation  is 
indispensable.  The  anesthetic  condition  is  also  favorable  for  the 
adjustment  of  displaced  organs. 

Large  animals  have  to  be  cast  and  secured  before  an  anesthetic  is 
administered.  For  complete  anesthesia  inhalations  of  chloroform 
are  generally  employed;  sometimes  of  both  ether  and  chloroform. 
The  quantity  of  chloroform  required  to  produce  insensibility  to  ex- 
ternal impressions  varies  much  in  different  cases  and  must  be  reg- 
ulated, as  well  as  the  admixture  of  air,  by  a  competent  assistant. 

If  the  probability  of  the  success  of  an  operation  is  remote  and  the 
animal  is  in  healthy  physical  condition,  so  that  its  flesh  is  good  for 
human  food,  it  is  more  advisable  to  butcher  the   animal  than  to 

287 


288  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

attempt  a  surgical  operation  that  offers  little  encouragement  to  the 
owner.  The  best  judgment  has  to  be  exercised  in  determining  a 
matter  of  this  kind,  for  no  animal  suffering  from  inflammation  or 
that  is  in  a  feverish  condition  is  fit  for  human  food. 

All  cases  of  major  operative  surgery  require  the  skill  and  dexterity 
of  the  experienced  veterinary  surgeon,  and  no  one  else  should  attempt 
such  an  operation,  for  unnecessary  suffering  must  be  prevented. 
NeA^ertheless,  the  more  knowledge  and  understanding  an  owner  of 
animals  has  of  the  principles  of  surgical  operations  and  manipula- 
tions, the  better  for  all  concerned.  In  the  fii-st  place,  such  an  owner 
Avill  appreciate  more  fully  the  skill  of  the  qualified  veterinarian,  and, 
in  the  second  place,  he  will  be  the  better  prepared  and  equipped  to 
render  assistance  to  his  suffering  dumb  dependents  where  no  prac- 
titioner is  accessible  and  in  cases  of  emergency.  There  are,  moreover, 
some  minor  operations  upon  cattle,  some  of  which  can  hardly  be 
classed  as  surgical,  that  the  stockman  and  famier  should  be  able  to 
perform  himself. 

In  the  performance  of  any  operation  upon  an  animal  of  the  size 
and  strength  of  the  bull  or  cow,  the  first  consideration  is  to  secure 
the  animal  in  such  a  manner  as  to  preclude  the  possibility  of  its 
injuring  either  itself  or  those  taking  any  part  in  the  operation.  The 
nature  and  time  likely  to  be  occupied  by  an  operation  must,  of  course, 
largely  determine  the  method  to  be  adopted. 

The  majority  of  operations  with  which  the  present  chapter  is  con- 
cerned are  usually  performed  on  the  animal  in  a  standing  position. 
A  bull  should  always  be  held  by  a  staff  attached  to  the  ring  in  his 
nose.  To  secure  the  cow  in  a  standing  position,  grasp  the  nose,  the 
finger  and  thumb  being  introduced  into  the  nostrils,  and  press  against 
the  cartilage  which  makes  a  division  between  them.  If  she  has  horns, 
grasp  one  of  them  with  the  disengaged  hand.  If  this  is  insufficient 
the  animal  should  be  secured  to  a  post,  along  the  side  of  a  fence,  or 
put  into  a  stanchion.  An  excellent  method  of  restraint  is  to  tie  a  long 
rope  in  a  slip  noose  over  the  horns,  pass  it  around  the  chest  just 
behind  the  forelegs,  taking  a  half  hitch  on  itself,  taking  another  half 
hitch  in  front  of  the  hind  limbs,  passing  the  free  end  under  the  tail, 
bringing  it  forward  and  making  it  fast  either  to  the  head  or  one  of 
the  hitches.  The  head  should  be  raised  to  the  level  of  the  back  before 
the  final  knot  is  tied,  so  as  to  render  it  too  serious  and  painful  a 
matter  for  her  to  repeat  the  first  attempt  she  makes  to  lower  it. 
Should  the  nature  or  extent  of  the  operation  be  likely  to  take  up 
considerable  time,  it  is  invariably  the  best  plan  to  throw  the  animal. 
In  the  Ciise  of  the  ox  this  is  very  easily  done,  either  by  use  of  horse 
hobbles,  should  they  be  at  hand,  or  by  the  application  of  a  simple 
rope.    If  the  horse  hobbles  are  used,  they  should  be  fastened  on  the 


SURGICAL    OPERATIONS.  289 

leg  just  aboA'e  the  fetlocks  (ankle  joints),  as  in  that  position  they  are 
less  liable  to  come  off  than  if  placed  around  the  pastern. 

Of  the  many  Avays  of  applying  the  rope  for  this  purpose  we  will 
describe  only  two,  which  we  consider  the  best  and  simplest : 

First.  Take  a  long,  strong  rope  (one  which  has  been  used  a  few 
times  is  more  flexible),  double  it,  and  at  2  or  3  feet  from  the  doubled 
end,  according  to  the  size  of  the  animal,  make  a  knot  and  pass  the 
collar  thus  formed  over  the  animal's  head,  allowing  it  to  rest  on  what 
would  be  the  collar  place  in  a  horse,  Now,  pass  the  ends  of  the  rope 
between  the  forelegs,  carry  one  around  each  hind  leg  just  aboAe  the 
fetlock  joint,  from  outside  in,  under  itself  once,  and  bring  the  free 
ends  forward,  passing  each  through  the  collar  loop  on  its  own  side 
and  bringing  the  slack  back  toAvard  and  bej^ond  the  hind  quarters. 
(PI.  XXVI,  fig.  2.)  Two  or  three  men  should  then  take  hold  of 
each  rope  and  at  a  giA^en  signal  pull.  The  animal's  hind  legs  being 
draAvn  forward,  the  balance  is  lost,  and  if  the  animal  does  not  fall 
or  lie  down  he  can  be  readily  pushed  OA'er  on  his  side  and  secured 
in  the  desired  position. 

Second.  The  three  half  hitches.  Take  a  rope  30  or  more  feet  long, 
make  a  slip  noose  at  the  end  and  pass  it  OA^er  the  animal's  horns, 
leaAing  the  knot  in  the  loop  between  the  horns;  then  pass  the  rope 
backward  along  the  neck  to  the  withers,  just  in  front  of  which  take  a 
half  hitch  on  it,  passing  it  along  the  back,  take  one  half  hitch  just 
behind  the  forelegs  and  a  second  in  front  of  the  hind  limbs  round  the 
flank.  (PI.  XXVI,  fig.  1.)  The  free  end  of  the  rope  is  taken  hold 
of  by  one  or  two  assistants  while  another  holds  the  animal's  head. 
By  pulling  firmly  on  the  rope,  or  inducing  the  animal  to  make  a  step 
or  two  forward  while  steady  traction  is  made  on  the  rope,  the  beast 
will  lie  down,  when  his  feet  can  be  secured  in  the  way  most  con- 
venient for  the  operator. 

There  are  numerous  other  methods,  inA'olving  more  or  less  com- 
plete restraint,  which  may  be  equally  efficacious,  but  one  or  other  of 
the  ways  indicated  will  doubtless  be  found  to  meet  fully  all  ordinary 
cases. 

RINGING  THE  BULL. 

This  is  usually  and  ought  always  to  be  done  before  the  calf  has 
attained  sufficient  Aveight  or  strength  to  make  his  restraint  a  matter 
of  serious  difficulty.  An  ordinary  halter  is  usually  all  that  is  re- 
quired, the  strap  being  secured  to  a  tree  or  post.  A  jointed  steel  or 
copper  ring  is  ordinarily  used.  Those  made  of  the  latter  metal  are 
preferable. 

The  common  method  of  punching  a  round  piece  out  of  the  nasal 
septum  for  the  introduction  of  the  ring  is,  I  think,  open  to  objection, 
as  portions  of  the  fine  nervous  filaments  are  destroyed.  The  sensi- 
33071°— 16 19 


290  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

bility  of  the  parts  is  thus  lessened  and  the  object  of  ringing  to  some 
extent  defeated.  The  insertion  of  the  ring  by  means  of  a  trocar  and 
cannula  is  preferable,  as  the  method  is  not  open  to  this  objection. 

For  some  years  we  have  used  a  little  instrument,  which  can  be 
made  by  any  worker  in  metal,  consisting  of  a  steel  point  riveted  into 
a  short  cannula  made  to  fit  on  one  end  of  the  ring  while  open. 
(PI.  XXVII,  fig.  11.)  When  attached  to  the  ring  it  is  easily  and 
quickly  passed  through  the  septum,  the  half  of  the  ring  following 
as  a  matter  of  course.  It  can  then  be  removed  and  the  ends  of  the 
ring  brought  together  and  fastened  by  means  of  the  screw  for  that 
purpose. 

DEHORNING. 

In  the  wild  state  the  utilit}'  of  the  horns  of  cattle  as  weapons  of 
offense  and  defense  is  apparent,  but  with  domestication  of  cattle 
and  their  confinement  the  presence  of  horns  constitutes  a  menace 
to  the  safety  of  their  companions.  Horned  cattle  frequently  inflict 
with  their  horns  painful  and  serious  injuries  to  others.  Deaths  as  a 
result  of  such  injuries  are  not  unusual.  The  operation  of  dehorning 
would  therefore  be  indicated  as  a  matter  of  general  safety. 

On  farms  where  breeding  is  conducted,  the  most  desirable  method 
is  to  prevent  the  horns  from  growing  on  the  young  calves.  This 
action  results  in  a  more  symmetrical  appearance  of  the  poll  and  elim- 
inates the  dangers  which  would  result  from  the  presence  of  horns  on 
the  young  cattle  prior  to  their  operative  removal  at  a  later  age.  A 
calf  should  be  treated  not  later  than  one  week  after  it  is  born — pref- 
erably when  it  is  from  3  to  5  days  old.  The  agent  to  be  used  may  be 
either  caustic  soda  or  potash  in  the  form  of  sticks  about  the  thickness 
of  an  ordinary  lead  pencil.  These  caustics  must  be  handled  with  care, 
as  they  dissolve  the  cuticle  and  may  make  the  hands  or  fingers  sore. 
The  preparation  of  the  calf  first  consists  in  clipping  the  hair  from 
the  parts,  washing  clean  Avith  soap  or  warm  water,  and  thoroughly 
drying  with  a  cloth  or  towel.  The  stick  of  caustic  should  be  wrapped 
in  a  piece  of  paper  to  protect  the  hands  and  fingers,  leaving  one 
end  of  the  stick  uncovered.  Moisten  the  uncovered  end  slightly  and 
rub  it  on  the  horn  buttons  or  little  points  which  may  be  felt  on  the 
calf's  head — first  on  one,  then  on  the  other — two  or  three  times, 
allowing  the  caustic  to  dry  after  each  application.  Be  careful  to 
apply  the  caustic  to  the  horn  button  only,  for  if  it  is  brought  in  con- 
tact with  the  surrounding  skin  it  will  cause  pain.  Too  much  mois- 
ture on  the  stick  of  caustic  will  allow  the  application  to  spread  to 
the  surrounding  skin.  After  treatment  keep  the  calf  protected  from 
rain,  as  water  on  the  head  after  application  of  the  caustic  will  cause 
it  to  run  down  over  the  face. 


RUEGICAL   OPERATIONS.  291 

Dehorning  of  adult  animals  is  usually  performed  after  the  age  of 
2  years,  as  after  that  age  there  is  less  probability  of  the  horns  again 
growing.  The  horns  should  be  severed  from  the  head  from  a  quar- 
ter to  a  half -inch  below  where  the  skin  joins  the  base  of  the  horn, 
cutting  from  the  back  toward  the  front  if  a  saw  is  used.  If  the 
horn  is  not  cut  close  enough  to  the  head,  an  irregular,  gnarly 
growth  of  horn  is  liable  to  follow. 

Before  attempting  to  dehorn  the  animal,  it  should  be  securely 
controlled  by  ropes  in  a  stanchion  or  by  casting.  Upon  the  range 
the  cattle  are  usually  controlled  by  casting  or  by  placing  them  in  a 
"  squeezer  "  connected  with  a  corral.  A  clean,  sharp  meat  saw  or  a 
miter  saw  with  a  rigid  back  may  be  used.  ^  arious  types  of  dehorn- 
ing shears  or  clippers  are  in  general  use.  One  type  of  dehorner 
has  a  stationar}^  knife  edge  with  its  cutting  edge  shaped  like  a  very 
wide  V,  and  opposing  this,  another  knife  of  similar  shape  moving 
in  a  slide,  so  that  the  cutting  edges  act  upon  the  horn  from  all  four 
sides  at  once,  all  the  edges  passing  the  center  at  the  same  time.  An- 
other type  has  a  movable  knife,  with  one  oblique  or  one  curved  edge, 
and  the  cutting  is  done  in  one  direction  only.  The  power  for  cut- 
ting with  these  instruments  is  supplied  by  pulling  together  two  long 
handles  which,  in  order  to  transmit  a  greater  force,  are  generally 
so  constructed  that  they  act  through  the  medium  of  a  series  of  cogs. 
In  dehorning  with  these  instruments  the  cutting  edges  should  be 
slipped  down  over  the  horn  and  the  knives  closed,  so  that  their  edges 
set  firmly  against  the  horn  in  such  position  that  the  cut  will  be  made 
in  the  right  place  and  in  the  right  direction.  The  handles  should 
then  be  drawn  together  with  a  quick,  firm,  strong  pull  so  that  the 
horn  will  be  completely  severed  by  the  first  act  and  without  twisting. 

Dehorning  should,  when  possible,  be  performed  in  cool  weather 
when  the  flies  are  not  plentiful.  The  loss  of  blood  from  the  opera- 
tion is  not  sufficient,  as  a  rule,  to  be  of  consequence,  and  after  care 
being  taken  to  prevent  substances  from  getting  into  the  openings 
left  after  the  removal  of  the  horns  it  is  not  usual  to  apply  any 
dressing.  Pine  tar  or  a  mixture  of  pine  tar  and  tannic  acid  may  be 
applied,  particularly  if  the  weather  is  warm. 

SETONING. 

The  ordinary  use  of  a  seton  is  to  keep  up  constant  drainage  from 
a  cavity  containing  matter  or  to  act  as  a  stimulant  or  counterirritant. 
To  insert  a  seton,  the  place  of  entrance  and  exit  having  been  decided 
on,  with  the  finger  and  thumb  make  a  small  fold  of  the  skin  trans- 
versely to  the  direction  the  seton  is  to  be  inserted,  and  cut  it  through, 
either  with  a  sharp  knife  or  a  pair  of  scissors  (this  should  be  done  at 
both  the  entrance  and  exit)  ;  then  with  a  steady  pressure  and  slight 


292  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

lateral  movement  insert  the  seton  by  means  of  a  seton  needle.  (PI. 
XXVII,  figs.  1  and  2.)  The  seton  should  consist  of  a  piece  of  strong 
tape,  varying  in  breadth  according  to  circumstances,  and  should  be 
kept  in  place  either  by  a  knot  on  each  end  or  by  tying  the  ends  to- 
gether. 

Setons  should  be  gently  moved  once  a  day  after  suppuration  is  set 
up,  and  they  should  not  be  allowed  to  remain  in  over  three  weeks,  or 
a  month  at  the  outside. 

TRACHEOTOMY. 

This  operation  consists  in  making  an  opening  in  the  trachea,  or 
windpipe.  It  is  indicated  whenever  there  is  an  obstruction  from  any 
cause  in  the  upper  part  of  the  respiratory  tract  which  threatens  the 
death  of  the  animal  by  asphyxia  (suilocation).  The  mode  of  pro- 
cedure is  as  follows :  Have  an  assistant  extend  the  animal's  head  as 
far  as  possible  to  make  the  trachea  tense  and  prominent;  make  a 
longitudinal  incision  about  2  to  2^  inches  long  through  the  skin  and 
deeper  tissues  and  trachea  at  the  most  prominent  part  of  the  trachea, 
which  is  about  the  middle  or  upper  third,  and  then  insert  the  trache- 
otomy tube.  The  latter  should  be  removed  once  or  twice  daily  and 
cleansed,  and  the  wound  dressed  antiseptically.  To  ascertain  when 
it  is  time  to  discontinue  the  use  of  the  tube  and  to  allow  the  wound 
to  close,  the  hand  should  be  held  over  the  opening,  which  will  require 
the  animal  to  use  its  natural  passages  in  breathing.  Observe  whether 
it  is  performed  in  a  natural  manner,  and  if  so,  remove  the  tube  and 
alloAv  the  wound  to  close.  Often  the  operation  has  to  be  performed 
in  great  haste  without  the  proper  instruments  and  under  great  dis- 
advantages, the  operator  having  to  cut  down  quickly,  open  the 
trachea  and  spread  the  parts,  using  some  instrument  improvised  by 
him  at  the  time.  This  operation  only  gives  the  animal  relief  in 
breathing,  and  therefore  the  proper  remedial  treatment  shoukl  be 
adopted  at  the  onset  of  the  attack  and  continued  until  the  cause  (the 
disease)  has  been  overcome. 

RUMENOTOMY. 

The  opening  of  the  paunch,  or  rumen,  in  cattle  and  the  removal 
of  a  part  or  the  whole  of  the  ingesta  through  said  opening  is  termed 
rumenotomy.  The  operation  should  be  performed  in  severe  cases 
only,  where  the  rumen  is  excessively  overloaded  and  distended.  The 
animal  is  placed  with  its  right  side  against  a  wall  and  firmly  held  in 
position  by  strong  assistants.  The  incision  is  made  in  the  same  place 
that  the  trocar  is  inserted  for  puncturing  that  organ  in  cases  of 
hoven.  The  opening  is  increased  in  size  until  the  operator's  hand  can 
be  inserted  into  the  rumen.    Before  any  of  the  contents  are  removed 


SUEGICAL    OPEEATIONS.  293 

from  that  organ  a  linen  cloth  should  be  placed  from  the  outer  wound 
into  the  rumen  in  order  to  prevent  any  of  the  ingesta  from  getting 
into  the  abdominal  cavity.  Some  practitioners,  after  removing  a 
portion  of  the  contents  of  the  rumen,  introduce  such  medicine  as 
may  be  indicated  before  closing  the  wound.  Clean  the  wound  and 
close  the  opening  in  the  rumen  with  uninterrupted  (PI.  XXVII, 
fig.  8)  carbolized  catgut  sutures.  Next  close  the  external  wound, 
consisting  of  the  integument,  muscle,  and  peritoneum,  with  stout, 
interrupted  (PI.  XXVII,  fig.  6)  metallic  sutures.  No  feed  should 
be  given  for  several  hours  after  the  operation,  and  then  gruels  only. 
(See  "Distension  of  rumen  or  paunch  with  feed,"  p.  26.) 

TREATMENT  OF  ABSCESSES. 

An  abscess  may  be  detected,  if  situated  externally,  by  heat,  pain, 
redness,  and  sAvelling  in  the  early  stages,  and,  if  further  developed, 
by  the  fluctuation  which  is  present.  When  any  of  these  symptoms 
are  absent,  the  suppuration  should  be  encouraged  by  the  means  of  hot 
fomentations  and  poultices.  Care  must  be  taken  that  the  abscess  is 
not  opened  too  soon,  or  to  some  extent  it  may  cause  it  to  scatter,  and 
the  escape  of  pus  will  be  lessened.  The  time  to  open  an  abscess  is 
just  before  it  is  ready  to  break,  and  should  be  done  with  a  sharp 
lance,  a  crucial  incision  sometimes  being  necessary.  The  cavity 
should  be  syringed  out  Avith  an  antiseptic  solution.  Care  should  be 
taken  not  to  allow  the  wound  to  close  too  rapidly,  to  prevent  which 
a  tent  of  lint  or  oakum  should  be  introduced. 

WOUNDS. 

For  the  purposes  of  the  present  work  wounds  may  be  divided  into 
three  classes :  (1)  Incised;  (2)  punctured;  (3)  lacerated  or  contused. 
In  any  wound  all  that  the  most  suitable  applications  can  accomplish 
is,  in  the  first  place,  to  prevent  the  access  of  those  poisonous  germs 
which  exist  in  the  animal's  surroundings,  such  as  the  soil  and  the 
manure,  and,  in  the  second  place,  when  the  process  of  repair  is  for 
some  reason  temporarily  inactive  or  altogether  arresied,  to  incite 
that  curative  inflammation  that  is  the  invariable  method  by  which 
the  cure  is  effected. 

Incised  wound. — This  is  one  with  clean-cut  edges,  and  may  be 
either  superficial  or  deep.  In  wounds  of  all  descriptions  there  is 
necessarily  more  or  less  bleeding,  and  this  is  especially  liable  to  be 
the  case  in  incised  wounds,  particularly  when  they  penetrate  to  a 
considerable  depth,  or  when  inflicted  on  a  part  where  blood  vessels 
of  any  considerable  size  approach  the  surface.  To  arrest  the  hemor- 
rhage must  therefore  be  the  first  consideration.  If  slight,  a  generous 
use  of  cold  water  is  all  that  is  necessary,  but  if  one  or  more  vessels 


294  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

of  any  size  have  been  wounded  or  entirely  severed,  they  should  be 
taken  up  and  ligated.  If  the  blood  flows  continuously  and  is  dark 
in  color,  it  proceeds  from  a  vein,  but  if  bright-colored  and  jerky  in 
its  flow,  it  is  arterial. 

The  taking  up  of  an  artery  simply  means  the  tying  up  of  the  bleeding 
vessel,  which  should  be  accomplished  as  follows:  To  discover  the 
bleeding  artery  take  a  piece  of  clean  absorbent  cotton,  dip  it  in  cold 
water,  and  by  gentle  pressure  on  the  wound  clear  it  of  the  accumu- 
lated blood.  The  jet  of  fresh  blood  reveals  the  end  of  the  vessel, 
which  is  readily  recognized  by  its  whitish-yellow  or  bufl:  color.  It 
should  be  seized  with  a  forceps  or  pincers  and  slightly  drawn  clear 
of  the  surrounding  tissues.  Now  take  the  thread  and  place  the  mid- 
dle of  it  under  the  artery,  take  up  the  ends,  tie  one  simple  knot 
tightly,  pressing  the  thread  down  with  the  forefinger  so  as  not  to 
include  the  forceps,  then  a  second  one  over  it  and  cut  off  the  ends. 
The  bleeding  being  arrested,  the  operator  can  now  carefully  clean 
and  inspect  the  wound,  taking  care  to  remove  all  blood  and  foreign 
matters  and  clip  the  hair  around  the  edges  before  proceeding  to 
stitch  it  up.  If  the  wound  is  superficial,  the  lips  may  be  brought 
together  by  a  series  of  independent  stitches  (PI.  XXVII,  fig.  6) 
about  one-half  of  an  inch  to  three-fourths  o£  an  inch  apart.  The 
stitches  should  not  be  drawn  tightly;  it  is  sufficient  to  bring  the 
edges  of  the  wound  in  apposition. 

If  the  wound  is  deep,  the  needle  should  be  introduced  perpendicu- 
larly at  as  great  a  distance  from  the  lip  of  the  wound  as  the  depth 
it  is  to  be  inserted,  so  as  to  give  the  thread  sufficient  hold.  All  the 
stitches  should  be  as  nearly  as  possible  at  equal  distances  from  the 
border  of  the  wound,  to  prevent  unequal  strain,  and  the  knots  should 
be  made  at  the  side,  not  over  the  wound.  (PI.  XXVII,  fig.  6.) 
AVhen  the  wound  is  large  and  deep,  care  should  be  taken  to  have  an 
opening  in  the  lowest  part  to  allow  for  the  escape  of  the  discharges. 

In  deep  wounds  which  run  crosswise  of  a  limb  or  muscle  it  is  often 
advisable  to  use  what  is  technically  known  as  the  "  quilled  suture," 
which  is  most  readily  understood  by  reference  to  Plate  XXVII, 
figure  7.  To  accomplish  this  method  a  curved  needle  with  an  eye  in 
the  point  and  a  strong  double  thread  should  be  used.  The  needle  thus 
threaded  is  introduced  perpendicularly  at  least  an  inch  from  the 
wound  on  one  side,  carried  across  below  and  brought  out  the  same 
distance  from  the  border  of  the  cut  on  the  opposite  side,  the  thread 
being  seized  and  held  in  position  while  the  needle  is  withdrawn,  leav- 
ing a  loop  of  thread  protruding  on  one  side  and  two  loose  ends  on 
the  other  side  of  each  stitch.  ^Yhen  enough  stitches  have  been  made, 
take  a  light  piece  of  wood  about  the  size  of  a  lead  pencil,  correspond- 
ing in  length  to  the  size  of  the  wound  or  slightly  longer,  and  insert  it 
tlu'ough  each  of  the  loops,  drawing  up  the  free  ends  of  the  threads, 


SURGICAL    OPERATIONS.  295 

which  should  in  turn  be  tied  securely  on  a  similar  piece  of  wood  on 
that  side. 

Punctured  wounds. — Owing  to  the  uncertainty  of  their  depth  and 
the  structures  they  may  involve,  punctured  wounds  are  by  far  the 
most  dangerous  and  difficult  to  treat.  Not  only  is  the  extent  of  the 
damage  hidden  from  view,  but  the  very  character  of  the  injury,  as 
can  be  readily  understood,  implies  at  least  the  possibility  of  deep- 
seated  inflammation  and  consequent  discharge  of  pus  (matter), 
which,  when  formed,  is  kept  pent  up  until  it  has  accumulated  to  such 
an  extent  that  it  burrows  by  simple  gravity,  as  no  other  exit  is  pos- 
sible. In  this  way  foreign  matters,  such  as  a  broken  piece  of  the 
stake  or  snag,  or  whatever  caused  the  wound,  may  be  carried  to  an 
indefinite  depth,  or  the  cavity  of  a  joint  may  be  invaded  and  very 
serious,  if  not  fatal,  consequences  occur. 

The  danger  is  especially  marked  when  the  injury  is  inflicted  on 
parts  liable  to  frequent  and  extensive  motion,  but  all  cases  of  punc- 
tured wounds  should  receive  unusual  care,  as  no  judgment  can  be 
accurately  formed  from  the  external  appearance  of  the  wound.  ^Vliile 
a  probe  can  ascertain  the  depth,  it  throws  but  little  light  on  the 
extent  or  exact  ^nature  of  the  internal  injur3^  For  this  reason  all 
punctured  wounds  should  invariably  be  carefully  searched  by  means 
of  a  probe  or  some  substitute  devised  for  the  occasion,  such  as  a  piece 
of  wire  with  a  smooth  blunt  end,  or  a  i^iece  of  hard  wood  shaped  for 
the  purpose.  Stitching  is  not  admissible  in  the  case  of  punctured 
wounds.  After  thoroughly  cleansing  the  opening  of  the  wound  and 
its  surroundings,  tincture  of  iodin  should  be  injected  directly  into 
the  wound. 

If  a  punctured  wound  is  not  very  deep,  and  when  the  bruising  and 
laceration  are  slight,  it  is  possible  for  healing  to  take  place  b}'^  adhe- 
sion, and  this  should  always  be  encouraged,  as  the  process  of  repair 
by  this  method  is  far  superior  to  that  by  granulation,  which  will  be 
referred  to  later.  With  this  object  in  view,  the  animal  should  be  kept 
as  quiet  as  possible.  A  dose  of  physic,  such  as  a  pound  of  Glauber's 
or  Epsom  salt,  should  be  administered,  and  warm  antiseptic  fomenta- 
tions or  poultices,  when  this  is  practicable,  applied  frequently  to  the 
surface  of  the  wound. 

In  wounds  of  this  description  the  process  of  repair  may  be  com- 
plicated by  the  appearance  of  exuberant  granulations,  popularly 
known  as  "  proud  flesh,"  which  is  really  an  overgrowth  of  new  tis- 
sue— granulation  tissue;  but  these  should  not  be  interfered  with 
unless  they  continue  after  the  acute  stage  of  inflammation  has  been 
subdued.  If,  after  this,  they  persist,  they  may  be  treated  with  a 
solution  of  sulphate  of  copper  (bluestone)  or  nitrate  of  silver  (lunar 
caustic)  and  water. 


296  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

Contused  or  lacerated  avounds. — These  are  usually  caused  by  a 
blow  with  some  blunt  instrument  or  falls.  The  seriousness  depends 
largely  on  the  depth  of  the  injury,  and  treatment  should  be  directed 
to  allaying  the  inflammation  and  preventing  the  consequent  tendency 
to  sloughing.  To  this  end  soothing  applications,  such  as  antiseptic 
fomentations  and  poultices,  are  plainly  indicated. 

Methods  or  healing. — Technically  these  may  be  divided  into  a 
number  of  distinct  processes,  but  practically  we  may  speak  of  them, 
as  two  only,  namely,  by  primary  union,  or  adhesion,  and  by  granu- 
lation. As  suppuration  is  not  so  liable  to  occur  in  cattle  as  in  horses, 
healing  by  the  former  and  more  speedy  process  is  much  more  com- 
mon in  the  first-named  species,  more  particularly  in  clean-cut  or 
incised  wounds,  provided  they  have  been  stitched  within  12  hours 
from  the  time  the  injury  which  caused  them  was  inflicted,  that  they 
have  been  kept  antiseptically  clean,  and  that  the  patient  by  some 
means  has  been  kept  fairly  still.  This  latter  stipulation  is  probably 
hardest  to  comply  with.  Quiet  is  an  important  factor  in  the  proc- 
ess of  repair  among  the  lower  animals. 

The  second  method  of  healing,  namely,  by  granulation,  which  is, 
however,  the  manner  in  which  most  wounds  in  animals  heal,  takes 
much  longer.  In  punctured  wounds  of  any  depth  healing  neces- 
sarily takes  place  in  this  way  only,  and  the  treatment  should  be  di- 
rected largely  to  alleviating  pain  and  moderating  inflammation. 

After-treatment  and  dressing  of  w^ounds. — The  dressing  of 
wounds  is  one  of  the  most  important  branches  of  veterinary  surgery, 
and  one  of  the  most  constant  difficulties  that  the  practicing  veterina^ 
rian  has  to  contend  with  lies  in  the  lack  of  cooperation  on  the  part  of 
owners  in  the  care  and  attention  in  the  after-treatment  of  wounds. 

In  summarizing  the  treatment  of  wounds,  the  following  recom- 
mendations should  be  observed:  wounds  must  be  cleansed  and  kept 
clean,  using  antiseptic  solutions  which  do  not  produce  irritation,  and 
applying  the  solutions  with  a  syringe  or  with  clean  pieces  of  ab- 
sorbent cotton.  Bleeding  should  be  stopped  before  the  closing  of 
the  Avound  by  sutures  or  bandages.  An  opening  at  the  bottom  of  all 
wounds  except  small  superficial  wounds  should  be  provided  as  a 
drainage  outlet  for  the  escape  of  wound  secretions  or  pus  if  it  should 
form.  The  edges  of  wounds  and  the  muscles  involved  in  the  wound 
should  be  kept  as  quiet  as  possible  during  the  process  of  healing. 
Every  wound  should  be  protected  by  a  sterile  or  antiseptic  dressing 
Avhenever  it  is  possible  to  retain  a  dressing  in  place.  Dressings 
should  be  changed  when  it  is  apparent  that  they  have  become 
drenched  with  wound  secretions  or  pus,  or  have  become  disarranged 
or  too  loose,  permitting  dirt  to  enter  between  them  and  the  skin.  If 
sAvelling  appears  beyond  the  edges  of  a  bandage,  it  is  an  indication 
that  it  is  too  tight  and  it  should  then  be  removed  and  again  applied. 


SURGICAL    OPERATIONS.  297 

The  hands  of  the  operator  and  all  instruments  and  dressings  com- 
ing in  contact  with  a  wound  at  any  time  should  be  made  as  clean  as 
possible  by  the  use  of  antiseptics. 

Barbed-wire  cuts. — We  have  specified  these  simply  because  in 
some  sections  of  the  country  there  is  a  fixed  idea  that  there  is  a 
specific  poison  in  barbed  wire,  causing  injuries  which  require  treat- 
ment differing  from  that  which  is  applicable  to  ordinary  wounds. 
Barbed-wire  cuts  differ  from  ordinary  wounds  only  in  the  parts 
being  often  lacerated  and  torn,  and  the  treatment  already  indicated 
for  wounds  of  that  description  is  applicable  to  them. 

CASTRATION. 

Castration  consists  in  the  removal  of  the  essential  organs  of  gener- 
ation, and  is  performed  upon  both  the  male  and  the  female.  In  the 
male  the  organs  removed  are  the  testicles  and  in  the  female  the 
ovaries. 

CASTRATION  OF  THE  MALE. 

Castration  in  the  male  is  performed  for  several  different  purposes. 
It  may  be  necessary,  as  is  the  case  in  certain  diseased  conditions  of 
the  testicles  and  in  strangulated  hernia,  but  the  usual  object  of  the 
operation  is  to  enhance  the  general  value  of  the  animal.  For  ex- 
ample, if  the  animal  is  intended  for  burden,  the  operation  will  better 
fit  him  for  his  work  by  so  modifying  his  temperament  and  physical 
condition  that  he  may  easily  be  controlled  by  his  master.  Again,  if 
he  is  merely  to  be  used  for  beef  purposes,  the  operation  will  improve 
the  quality  of  the  flesh  and  cause  an  added  development  of  the  most 
valuable  portions  of  the  dressed  carcass. 

The  operation  upon  the  female  may  be  performed  on  account  of 
diseased  conditions,  but  we  may  say  that  the  chief  object  of  the 
operation  is  to  make  the  animal  one  of  more  profit  to  its  owner  by 
lessening  the  lacteal  secretion  and  also  improving  the  physical  con- 
dition from  the  point  of  view  of  beef  production.  When  the  cow  is 
spayed,  it  does  away  with  all  trouble  attending  estrum,  or  heat,  ges- 
tation, and  parturition  with  its  accidents  and  ailments.  The  flesh 
of  the  spayed  cow  is  more  tender  and  juicy  than  that  of  the  natural 
animal. 

The  operation  upon  the  male  may  be  either  the  uncovered  or  tlie 
covered.  In  the  former  the  incision  is  made  down  to  the  testicle 
proper,  and  in  the  latter  the  cut  is  made  through  the  scrotum  or  the 
outside  covering  and  through  the  dartos,  or  the  next  coat,  care  being 
taken  to  cut  no  deeper  tissues  or  coats.  The  age  at  which  the  opera- 
tion is  performed  varies,  but  usually  it  is  performed  between  the 
second  and  third  month.  If  done  in  early  life,  there  is  less  danger  of 
complications,  the  organs  being  in  a  latent  condition  and  not  fully 
developed.  There  are  many  different  methods  of  operating,  the  prin- 
cipal ones  of  which  we  shall  mention.    In  the  uncovered  operation  a 


/ 


298  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

good  free  incision  should  be  liiade,  exposing  the  testicle  completely. 
Now  it  may  be  removed  by  simply  cutting  it  off.  The  only  danger 
of  doing  this  is  that  hemorrhage  is  liable  to  follow.  To  obviate  this, 
before  the  division  of  the  spermatic  cord  it  should  be  twisted  several 
times  in  the  following  manner :  Take  hold  of  the  cord  with  the  left 
hand,  having  it  between  the  thumb  and  the  index  finger.  Now  twist 
the  free  portion  several  times  with  the  right  hand,  all  the  time  being 
careful  to  push  with  the  left  hand  toward  the  body  of  the  animal. 
In  this  way  the  danger  of  injury  to  the  cord  during  the  animal's 
struggles  will  be  overcome.  There  will  be  no  hemorrhage,  or  very 
little,  if  it  has  been  done  properly.  This  is  the  most  simple  manner 
of  torsion.  There  are  forceps  and  other  instruments  made  to  per- 
form the  operation  in  this  manner.  The  actual  cautery  is  an  old 
method,  but  we  shall  not  describe  it,  as  we  consider  that  we  have  bet- 
ter methods  now.  The  next  method  with  the  clamps,  although  ex- 
tensively used  ujDon  the  horse,  is  not  practiced  to  so  great  an  extent 
upon  the  bovine  at  the  present  time.  It  is  a  very  old  method,  and  is 
considered  very  safe.  Clamps  are  used  in  the  covered  and  uncovered 
operations. 

More  modern  methods  are  by  the  use  of  special  instruments  known 
as  the  emasculator  and  the  ecraseur. 

The  operation  of  "  mulling  "  or  crushing  the  spermatic  cord  is  an 
unscientific  and  barbarous  procedure,  causing  unnecessary  pain  and 
suffering. 

The  methods  described  above  apply  only  to  the  animal  in  a  normal 
condition.  Before  operating  everything  should  be  examined  to  see 
that  it  is  as  it  should  be.  If  otherwise,  a  special  operative  procedure 
will  be  necessary.  Whichever  mode  of  operation  is  adopted  from  a 
practical  standpoint,  the  principal  precautions  to  be  taken  in  order 
to  attain  success  are  as  follows:  First,  thorough  cleanliness  under 
strict  aseptic  and  antiseptic  precautions;  second,  a  free  and  boldly 
made  incision ;  third,  the  avoidance  of  undue  pulling  or  tension  upon 
the  spermatic  cord ;  fourth,  free  drainage,  which  can  be  maintained, 
provided  the  original  incision  has  been  properly  made. 

The  operation  of  castration  of  the  male  is  by  no  means  a  serious 
one,  and  when  properl}'^  performed  there  is  little  danger  from  com- 
plications. Although  the  danger  is  trifling,  the  complications  which 
may  arise  are  sometimes  of  a  serious  nature.  Hemorrhage,  either 
primary  or  secondary,  tetanus  (or  lockjaw),  abscesses,  hernia  (or 
rupture) ,  gangrene,  and  peritonitis  are  the  most  serious  complications 
that  follow  castration.  Whichever  complication  arises  will  require 
its  own  special  treatment,  which  we  will  not  go  into  here,  as  it  will 
be  fully  dealt  with  under  another  heading.  We  would  add,  howeVer, 
that,  generally  speaking,  the  animal,  after  being  castrated,  should 
either  be  regularlv  exercised  or  be  allowed  freedom  so  that  it  can 


SURGICAL    OPERATIONS.  299 

exercise  itself.     Sudden  changes  of  the  temperature  are  dangerous. 
The  animal  should  be  fed  moderately,  but  of  a  diet  easily  digestible. 

CASTRATION  OF  THE  FEMALE. 

The  operation  of  ovariotomy  (spaying)  should  be  performed  when 
the  heifer  is  in  her  prime  and  in  moderate  condition  not  too  plethoric 
and  not  in  heat  or  pregnant.  This  operation  may  be  performed  in 
one  of  two  ways — namely,  by  the  flank  or  by  the  vagina — each  oper- 
ation having  its  special  advantages.  In  the  flank  operation  the 
animal  may  be  operated  upon  either  while  standing  or  while  in  the 
recumbent  position.  If  standing,  she  should  be  placed  against  a 
wall  or  a  partition  and  her  head  held  by  a  strong  assistant.  The  legs 
also  must  be  secured  to  prevent  the  animal  from  kicking.  A  ver- 
tical incision  should  be  made  in  the  left  flank,  about  the  middle  of 
the  upper  portion,  care  being  taken  not  to  make  the  opening  too 
far  down,  in  order  to  avoid  the  division  of  the  circumflex  artery 
which  traverses  that  region.  The  operator  should  now  make  an 
opening  through  the  peritoneum,  which  is  best  done  with  the  fingers. 
\Next  the  hand  and  arm  should  be  introduced  into  the  abdominal 
cavity  and  the  hand  directed  backward  toward  the  pelvis,  searching 
for  the  horns  of  the  uterus ;  if  followed  up  the  ovaries  will  easily  be 
found.  They  should  then  be  drawn  outward  and  may  be  removed 
either  by  the  ecraseur  or  by  torsion.  Closing  and  suturing  the  wound 
will  complete  the  operation.  An  adhesive  plaster  bandage  can  be 
beneficially  applied. 

The  operation  by  the  vagina  is  more  complicated  and  requires 
special  and  expensive  instruments.  The  mode  of  procedure  in  brief 
is  as  follows:  A  speculum  is  introduced  into  the  vagina,  and  an 
incision  is  made  into  the  superior  wall  of  that  passage  about  2  inches 
from  the  neck  of  the  uterus,  cutting  from  below  upward  and  from 
before  backward.  An  incision  which  should  not  exceed  3^  inches 
in  length  should  be  made.  The  next  step  is  to  get  possession  of  the 
ovaries.  They  are  situated  in  a  fold  of  the  broad  ligament  and 
should  be  drawn  carefully  through  the  incision  into  the  vagina. 
Now  take  the  long-handled  scissors,  specially  made  for  this  purpose, 
with  which  the  thick  border  of  the  broad  ligament  is  divided.  The 
torsion  forceps  are  introduced  and  applied  to  the  broad  ligament 
above  the  ovary.  The  left  hand  is  then  introduced,  and  the  thumb 
and  the  index  finger  grasp  hold  of  the  broad  ligament  above  the 
forceps.  With  the  right  hand  torsion  is  applied  and  the  ovary  re- 
moved.    The  other  ovary  may  be  removed  in  the  same  manner. 

What  has  been  said  with  regard  to  complications  and  aftertreat- 
ment  in  the  case  of  the  male  also  applies  to  the  female. 

OTHER  SURGICAL  OPERATIONS. 

Descriptions  of  other  surgical  operations  not  given  in  this  chapter 
may  be  found  in  other  parts  of  this  work  by  reference  to  the  index. 


SURGICAL  OPERATIONS. 


DESCRIPTION    OF   PLATES. 


Plate  XXVI.  Devices  for  ca.sting  cattle.     (From  Fleming.) 
Fig.  1.  Reuff's  method  of  throwing  or  casting  the  ox. 
Fig.  2.  Miles's  method  of  throwing  or  casting  the  ox. 
Plate    XXVII.      Sm'gical    instruments    and    sutures.      (After    Reynders    and 
Fleming. ) 

Figs.  1  and  2.  Seton  needles.     These  may  be  either  long  or  short,  straight 

or  curved,  according  to  the  locality  in  which  a  seton  is  to  be  inserted. 
Fig.  3.  Various  forms  of  surgical  needles. 
Fig.  4.  Suture  forceps  or  needle  holder,  for  passing  needles  through  thick 

and  dense  tissues. 
Fig.  r>.  Knot  properly  tied. 

Figs,  r.,  7,  8,  9,  10.    Various  forms  of  sutures.    Fig.  6,  interrupted  suture; 
7,  quilled  suture ;  8,  uninterrupted  suture ;  9,  twisted  suture,  made  by 
jtassing  suture  pins  through  the  parts  to  be  held  together  and  wind- 
ing the  thi'ead  about  them  so  as  to  represent  the  figure  8;  10,  single- 
pin  suture. 
Fig.  11.  Appliance  for  ringing  the  bull,  one-fourth,  natural  size. 
Fig.  12.  Nose  clamp,  with  spring  and  keeper. 
SCO 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  XXVI. 


Devices  FOR  Casting  Cattle. 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  XXVIl. 


Surgical  Instruments  and  Sutures. 


TUMORS  AFFECTING  CATTLE. 

By  John  R.  Mohler,  V.  M.  D., 
Assistant  Chief,  Bureau  of  Animal  Industry. 

[Synonyms:  New  growth,  neoplasm,  neoformatiou,  pseudoplasm,  swelling,  anci 
hyperplasia.] 

Deflnitimi. — Tumors  ^  are  abnormal  masses  of  tissue,  noninflamma- 
tory and  independent  in  character,  arising,  without  obvious  cause, 
from  cells  of  preexistent  tissue,  possessing  no  physiologic  function, 
and  characteristically  unrestrained  in  growth  and  structure. 

Tumors  are  abnormal  masses  of  tissue.  The  application  of  the 
term  "  tumor  "  is  directly  connected  with  the  fact  that  they  produce 
local  enlargement. 

They  are  noninflammatory ;  that  is,  the  process  of  inflammation  is 
not  directly  the  cause  or  accompaniment  of  them.  An  inflammatory 
new  gi^owth  tends  to  disappear  upon  the  subsidence  of  the  inflamma- 
tory process,  while  spontaneous  disappearance  of  a  tumor  is  compar- 
atively rare. 

Tumors  are  independent.  For  instance,  their  nutrition  bears  no 
relation  to  the  nutrition  of  the  body.  A  lipoma,  or  fatty  tumor,  in 
the  subcutaneous  tissue,  may  go  on  increasing  to  huge  bulk  while  the 
body  is  steadily  emaciating.  Again,  the  tissues  of  the  aged  gradually 
undergo  atrophy,  yet  cancers  arise  at  this  time  and  grow"  rapidly. 

Tumors  are  unrestrained  in  growth  and  structure.  In  the  develop- 
ment of  an  animal  we  know  at  what  period  of  its  existence  the  mass 
of  tissue  called  liver  will  develop — what  its  site,  structure,  and  size 
will  be.  We  know  that  it  will  remain  only  in  that  locality,  and  not, 
as  it  were,  colonize  throughout  the  system.  With  tumors  it  is  diifer- 
ent;  there  are  no  laws  by  which  we  can  forecast  the  time,  place, 
nature,  or  size  of  development  of  them.  There  is  no  cartilage  in  the 
kidney  or  parotid  gland,  yet  a  chondroma,  or  cartilage  tumor,  may 
develop  in  either.    Even  when  a  new  growth  of  tissue  is  started  by 

1  The  term  "  tumor  "  literally  me.ins  a  swelling,  and  thus  has  been  applied  to  the  promi- 
nence caused  by  an  overdistended  bladder,  to  the  enlargement  of  pregnancy,  to  the  swell- 
ing produced  by  an  abscess,  to  the  overgrowth  of  tissue  (hyperplasia)  associated  with 
injury  and  consequent  inflammation,  and  to  numerous  other  phases  of  tissue  enlargement 
directly  connected  with  recognized  disease  processes.  For  this  reason  it  is  becoming  more 
common  for  scientists  to  apply  the  word  "  neoplasm  "  to  the  new  growths  described  in 
this  chapter.  Because  of  the  still  popular  use  of  the  word  "  tumor,"  it  is  retained  in  this 
chapter  for  the  designation  of  those  new  growths  to  which  the  sevenfold  characterization 
of  our  descriptive  definition  applies. 

301 


302  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

an  injury  and  consequent  inflammation — as,  for  instance,  proud 
flesh — there  is  a  limitation  of  its  size,  but  the  controlling  influences 
which  govern  the  size  of  an  organ  or  normal  mass  of  tissue  and  limit 
the  extent  of  an  inflammatory  overgrowth  are  all  absent  in  the  case 
of  tumors.    They  are  unrestrained,  lawless. 

Metastasis  expresses  the  lawlessness  of  tumors  as  regards  being 
limited  to  the  original  site  of  development.  Small  particles  of  tu- 
mors enter  the  blood  vessels  or  lymph  streams  and  are  carried  to 
distant  parts  of  the  body,  where  they  lodge  and  start  new  tumor 
formations.  Expansion  by  colonization  in  this  manner  is  a  rule  with 
many  tumors,  and,  since  they  exercise  no  function  of  use  to  the  organ- 
ism, this  dissemination  of  actively  growing  particles  becomes  a 
menace  to  the  system  by  numerically  increasing  the  body's  burden, 
opening  new  channels  of  drain  upon  the  system  and  adding  new 
centers  for  the  absorption  of  putrefactive  materials  when  the  sec- 
ondary tumors  shall  have  degenerated.  It  is  this  which  makes  me- 
tastasis such  an  important  element  in  the  malignancy  of  tumors. 

Tumors  possess  no  physiological  function.  They  are  absolutely 
useless.  Fibrous  tumors  bind  no  parts  of  the  organism  together; 
bony  tumors  add  nothing  to  the  supporting  framework  of  the  body ; 
the  tissue  of  fatty  tumors  never  serves  as  a  storehouse  of  feed  and 
energy;  the  cells  of  an  adenoma,  or  gland  tumor,  furnish  no  secre- 
tion ;  a  tumor  composed  of  muscle  tissue  produces  no  increase  to  the 
strength  of  the  individual — its  muscle  cells  are  not  contractile. 

Tumors  arise  from  cells  of  preexistent  tissue.  Tumor  tissue  is  not 
a  new  variety.  Whatever  the  structure  of  a  tumor,  its  counter- 
part is  found  among  the  tissues  of  the  body,  the  lawlessness  of 
the  tumor,  however,  showing  itself  in  more  or  less  departure  from 
the  normal  type.  This  departure  is  usually  a  reversion  to  a  more 
elementary  or  embryonic  stage,  so  that  the  tumor  tissues  may  be  said 
to  be  structurally  immature. 

Tumors  arise  without  obvious  causfe.  Concerning  the  ultimate 
cause  of  tumor  formation  we  are  absolutely  ignorant.  Various 
theories  have  been  advanced  from  time  to  time,  but  none  of  them 
have  been  applicable  to  more  than  a  limited  number  of  cases.  The 
most  important  theories  may  be  briefly  mentioned. 

(1)  The  theory  of  tumnor  diathesis. — Bilroth  taught  that  tumors 
are  caused  by  a  peculiar  predisposition  consisting  of  a  diseased  state 
of  the  fluids  of  the  body.  'This  constitutional  taint  might  be  acquired, 
but,  having  been  acquired,  is  also  hereditary.  This  theory  is  known 
also  as  the  heredity  hypothesis,  but,  while  it  is  true  that  heredity 
appears  to  play  some  role  in  the  causation  of  certain  neoplasms,  its 
application  is  too  limited  to  make  it  of  value. 

(2)  The  Tnechamcal  or  irntant  theory/. — Virchow  assumed  that 
tumors  arise  as  the  result  of  previous  irritation  of  the  part.     This 


TUMORS    AFFECTING    CATTLE.  303 

has  been  noticed  particularly  in  the  case  of  certain  cancers.  They 
frequently  develoi^  on  the  edges  of  old  ulcers,  thus  being  dependent 
apparently  on  chronic  irritation.  Cancer  of  the  lip  in  pipe  smokers 
is  a  case  in  point.  Cancerous  tumors  of  the  skin  often  develop  on 
the  arms  of  workers  in  paraffin,  tar,  or  soot,  the  chemical  irritation 
of  these  substances  being  the  cause.  On  the  contrary,  the  proportion 
of  those  thus  affected  among  the  exposed  is  very  small  and  forces 
the  conclusion  that  if  the  real  cause  were  in  the  irritation  vastly  more 
cases  would  occur. 

(3)  The  theory  of  nervous  influence. — That  is  based  upon  {a)  the 
observed  fact  that  tumors  occur  more  frequently  in  man  and  the 
higher  animals  than  in  those  lower  in  the  scale,  among  which  the 
nervous  system  is  less  highly  developed;  (5)  that  certain  formations 
seem  to  be  directly  connected  with  nerve  distribution,  while  others 
have  been  associated  with  alternations  in  neighboring  nerve  trunks. 

(4)  The  embryonal  theory. — This  is  known  also  as  Cohnheim's 
hypothesis.  In  early  fetal  life  there  occurs  a  production  of  cells  in 
excess  of  those  required  for  the  construction  of  the  various  parts  of 
the  body,  so  that  a  certain  number  of  them  are  left  over  in  the  fully 
developed  tissue  or  become  misplaced  during  the  sorting  of  cells  for 
future  development  of  tissues  and  organs.  These  cells  lie  dormant 
until  favorable  conditions  arise  or  until  some  sufficient  stimulus  is 
applied,  when,  released  from  their  inactivity,  they  begin  to  repro- 
duce and  grow.  Not  being  normally  related  to  their  site,  they  lack 
the  controlling  and  limiting  influences  of  the  part,  and,  their  embry- 
onic character  enduing  them  with  a  most  potent  proliferating 
power,  they  develop  in  a  lawless  and  unrestrained  manner.  There 
are  tumors  whose  existence  can  be  explained  only  on  these  grounds. 
Still,  this  theory  falls  far  short  of  answering  the  question  as  to  the 
origin  of  tumors. 

(5)  The  parasitic  theory. — This  is  not  only  one  of  the  latest,  but, 
merely  as  a  hypothesis,  it  is  the  most  attractive  and  plausible  of  all. 
The  serious  objections  to  it,  however,  are  the  almost  uniform  failure 
that  has  met  the  attempts  to  transplant  these  tumors  from  one  animal 
to  another  and  the  absence  of  any  constant  variety  of  organism  in 
them.  Several  forms  of  parasites  have  been  found  in  certain  tumors, 
but  nothing  definite  has  been  shown  with  reference  to  the  relation 
they  bear  to  the  causation  of  the  neoplasm. 

CLASSIFICATION  OF  TUMORS. 

In  Senn's  work  on  tumors  occurs  the  following:  "A  uniform  sys- 
tem of  classification  of  tumors  is  one  of  the  great  wants  of  modern 
pathology,  and  all  attempts  in  this  direction  have  proved  failures." 
It  would  be  folly,  therefore,  to  burden  the  pages  of  a  Tvork  of  this 
kind   with   one   or   several   of   the   proposed    systems   which   have, 


304  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

admittedly,  at  some  important  point,  failed  of  their  purpose.  Since 
the  value  of  this  chapter  depends  chiefly  upon  its  practical  character, 
which  in  turn  is  measured  by  its  aid  in  diagnosis,  prognosis,  and 
treatment,  the  old  but  important  clinical  division  is  here  adopted. 

Tumors  are  either  malignant  or  benign.  The  essential  difference 
between  the  two  classes  is  that  while  benign  tumors  depend  for 
their  ill  effects  entirely  upon  their  situation^  malignant  neoplasms 
wherever  located  inevitably  destroy  life.  The  clinical  features  of 
each  group  are  in  many  cases  sufficiently  marked  to  distinguish 
them. 

MALIGNANT  TUMORS. 

(1)  These  are  invariably  pernicious,  and  from  the  beginning  tend 
to  destroy  life. 

(2)  The  cellular  element  predominates;  therefore  they  grow 
rapidly, 

(3)  Possessing  no  capsule,  they  infiltrate  surrounding  tissues. 

(4)  They  infect  adjacent  lymph  glands, 

(5)  They  recur  even  after  complete  removal. 

(6)  They  give  metastasis;  that  is,  they  become  dfeseminated  in 
different  organs. 

(7)  Their  presence  develops  a  progressive  emaciation. 

BENIGN    TUMORS. 

(1)  These  in  and  of  themselves  do  not  tend  to  produce  death. 

(2)  As  the  cellular  element  is  not  liable  to  predominate,  they  grow 
slowly. 

(3)  They  are  encapsulated,  and  when  diffuse  do  not  infiltrate  sur- 
rounding tissues. 

(4)  They  do  not  infect  adjacent  lymph  glands. 

(5)  They  do  not  recur  after  complete  removal. 

(6)  They  do  not  manifest  metastasis. 

Benign  tumors,  though  harmless,  may,  by  the  accident  of  their 
location,  indirectly  produce  death.  Mere  pressure  on  the  brain 
substance  of  an  otherwise  innocent  tumor,  compression  of  the  blood 
supply  for  vital  organs,  growth  in  such  manner  as  to  cause  obstruc- 
tion in  the  alimentary  tract  or  pressure  upon  nerves,  may  cause 
death,  or,  prior  to  death,  so  combine  the  effects  of  anemia  (deficiency 
of  blood),  starvation,  and  pain,  with  its  consequent  restlessness,  as 
to  produce  a  veritable  cachexia  (condition  of  general  ill  health). 

On  the  other  hand,  a  malignant  tumor  in  its  primary  growth  may 
£0  implicate  a  vital  organ  as  to  destroy  life  before  metastasis  can 
occur  or  even  before  cachexia  can  develop.  Thus,  to  the  untrained 
observer,  environment  may  so  operate  as  to  cause  these  two  classes 
of  new  growths  to  simulate  each  other.     The  boundary  lines  may 


TUMORS   AFFECTING    CATTLE.  305 

seem  to  overlap.  It  is  here  that  the  microscope,  as  the  court  of  last 
appeal,  adjudicates  positively  in  the  diagnosis  between  these  two 
clearly  marked  divisions. 

It  may  almost  be  asserted  that  a  true  classification  of  tumors  can 
not  be  made  until  we  know  more  about  the  cause  of  them.  The 
arrangement  here  presented  is  offered  to  meet  the  practical  needs  of 
the  veterinarian,  student,  and  farmer  rather  than  of  the  pathologist. 

We  may  roughly  divide  the  tissues  of  the  body  into  structural  and 
lining  tissues.  The  structural  tissues  are  composed  of  the  tissues  of 
special  function  and  simple  connective  tissues.  The  lining  or  cover- 
ing tissues,  both  internal  and  external,  are  known  as  epithelium. 

Section  A  of  the  table  below  contains  the  true  tumors  or  proper 
neoplasms. 

Section  B  includes  the  cysts,  some  of  which  are  true  tumors,  while 
others  are  false  ones,  but  the  latter  are  added  because  of  their  gross 
resemblance  to  the  true  and  the  consequent  necessity  of  considering 
them  at  the  same  time. 

TUMORS  AND  CYSTS. 
A. — Tumors. 

BENIGN. 

I. — Tumors  composed  of  tissues  reseinNing  those  of  special  function. 

1.  Type  of  muscle  tissue Myoma. 

2.  Type  of  nerve  tissue Neuroma. 

3.  Type  of  vascular  tissue Angioma. 

4.  Type  of  gland  tissue Adenoma. 

II. — Tumors  composed  of  fully  developed  connective  tissue. 

:l.  Type  of  fibrous  tissue Fibroma. 

2.  Type  of  adipose,  or  fat,  tissue Lipoma. 

3.  Type  of  cartilage  tissue Chondroma. 

4.  Type  of  osseous,  or  bone,  tissue < Osteoma. 

5.  Type  of  neuroglia,  or  nerve,  sheath Glioma. 

G.  Type  of  mucoid,  or  mucous,  tissue Myxoma. 

MALIGNANT. 

III. — Tumors  composed  of  cmhnjonic  or  immature  connective  tissues. 

1.  Type  of  immature  connective  tissue Sarcoma. 

2.  Type  of  endothelial   tissue Endothelioma. 

IV. — Tu)nors  in  which  epithelial  elements  predominate. 

1.  Type  of  various  epithelial  cells  and  associated  tissues Carcinoma. 

33071°— 16 20 


306  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

B. — Cysts. 

I. — Cysts  which  develop  in  preexisting  cavities. 

1 Retention    cysts. 

2 Proliferation  cysts. 

II. — Cysts  which  arc  of  congenital  origin  and  are  true  tumors. 

1 Dermoid  cysts. 

III. — Cysts  tchicli  originate  independently  as  the  resnlt  of  pathological  changes 

and  are  nofitumorous. 

1.  Cysts  formed  by  the  softening  and  disintegration  of  lesions — Softening  cysts. 

2.  Cysts  formed  around  parasites Parasitic  cysts. 

3.  Cysts  formed  by  an  outpouring  of  blood  and  lymph  into  the  tissue  spaces  with 

subsequent  encapsulation  of  the  fluid Extravasation  cysts. 

Terminology. — The  principle  of  naming  tumors  is  quite  simple. 
The  Greek  word  "  oma  "  (plural  "  omata  ")  means  tumor.  This  word 
"  oma  "  is  added  to  the  stem  of  the  word  ordinarily  used  to  designate 
the  kind  of  tissue  of  which  the  tumor  is  composed.  Thus  a  tumor 
formed  after  the  type  of  fibrous  tissue  is  a  fibroma.  The  only  excep- 
tion to  this  is  in  the  naming  of  the  two  large  classes  of  malignant 
neoplasms.  There  the  names  were  formed  from  the  fieshlike  appear- 
ance of  the  one  and  the  crablike  proliferations  of  the  other — ^namely, 
Sarcoma  (sarks  =  flesh),  carcinoma  (karkinos=  crab). 

Diagnosis. — In  the  diagnosis  of  timiors  note  is  taken  of  (1)  clinical 
history  and  (2)  examination  of  the  tumor. 

(1)  Clinical  histary. — Circumstances  connected  with  the  origin  of 
the  tumor  and  its  rapidity  of  growth  may  point  to  an  inflammatory 
swelling  rather  than  a  tumor.  The  location  of  the  tumor  at  its  com- 
mencement is  important,  as,  for  instance,  in  diagnosing  between 
lipoma  and  carcinoma,  the  former  being  more  or  less  movable  under 
the  skin,  while  a  carcinoma  develops  in  the  skin.  While  tenderness 
on  pressure  may  be  caused  by  compression  of  a  sensitive  nerve  by  a 
tumor  or  by  tumors  of  the  nerve  or  nerve  sheaths,  as  a  rule  this 
symptom  is  indicative  of  inflammatory  swelling  rather  than  of  the 
existence  of  a  tumor. 

(2)  Direct  examination  of  the  tumor. — In  the  application  of  this 
diagnosis  the  trained  observer  will  note  color,  size,  shape,  and  surface 
structure,  transmission  of  light,  movableness,  consistence,  resistance, 
pulsation,  and  crepitation.  Percussion,  auscultation,  and  exploration 
are  also  available  methods.  Finally,  microscopic  examination  of  the 
growing  portions  of  the  tumor  by  a  pathologist  will  be  found  most 
satisfactory. 


TUMORS    AFFECTING    CATTLE.  307 

GENERAL  TREATMENT  OF  TUMORS. 

For  benign  tumors  treatment  is  required  only  when  it  damages  the 
animal's  value  or  when  merely  for  sake  of  appearance.  When  it  is 
possible,  the  removal  of  the  tumor  by  an  operation  is  indicated.  If 
the  tumor  has  a  small,  constricted  base,  remove  by  torsion,  ligation,  or 
with  an  ecraseur.  Ligation  following  the  incision  of  the  skin  with  a 
knife  avoids  the  pain  of  pressing  on  the  sensitive  nerves  of  the  skin 
and  is  suitable  for  tumors  of  broad  base  and  small  bodies.  A  firing 
iron,  such  as  is  used  in  line  or  feather  firing,  may  also  be  used  in 
removing  tumors  with  small  attachments.  This  not  only  stops  the 
bleeding  but  forms  a  firm  scab,  under  which  healing  may  occur  rap- 
idly. Those  tumors  that  can  not  be  removed  by  the  above  methods 
may  be  treated  with  caustics  or  acids,  such  as  sulphuric  acid,  hydro- 
chloric acid,  caustic  potash,  arsenic,  silver  nitrate,  or  chromic  acid, 
but  it  is  difficult  to  limit  the  action  of  these  drugs.  The  injection, 
into  the  tumor,  of  such  chemicals  as  anilin  dyes,  alcohol,  acetic 
acid,  citric  acid,  or  ergotin,  is  of  doubtful  value,  as  is  also  the  in- 
jection of  the  germs  of  erysipelas — thought  by  some  to  be  a  specific. 
Certain  specific  tumors,  such  as  actinomycosis  and  botryomycosis, 
may  be  successfully  treated  by  the  internal  administration  of  potas- 
sium iodid,  together  with  the  injection  into  the  tumor  or  the  painting 
of  its  surface  with  either  Lugol's  solution  or  the  tincture  of  iodin. 
The  most  reliable  means  of  treating  tumors  is  by  extirpation  with 
cutting  instruments.  Dissect  the  tumor  from  the  surrounding  tissue, 
ligating  all  the  larger  blood  vessels,  and  tearing  the  tissues  with  the 
fingers  rather  than  cutting  with  a  knife.  The  bleeding  may  be 
stopped  with  a  hot  iron.  The  after  treatment  is  the  same  as  for  any 
ordinary  wound  of  similar  size. 

DESCRIPTION  OF  INDIVIDUAL  TUMORS. 

Although  a  full  list  of  the  tumors  that  may  be  found  in  bovines  has 
been  given  above,  thei^  are  a  number  that  warrant  a  detailed  descrip- 
tion, and  the  following  mention  will  be  made  of  the  most  important 
of  them: 

MYOMA. 

These  tumors  are  after  the  type  of  muscle.  They  are  sharply  cir- 
cumscribed and,  as  a  rule,  are  very  hard,  a  condition  owing  usually  to 
combination  with  fibroma  and  are  then  known  as  fibromyoma.  In 
fact,  the  clinical  differentiation  between  myoma  and  fibroma  is  almost 
impossible.  Myomas  are  found  in  the  uterus,  vagina,  stomach,  intes- 
tines, gullet,  and  bladder  of  a  bovine  animal.  They  grow  very  large, 
but,  as  a  rule,  are  benign.    Treatment  should  consist  of  their  removal. 


308  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

NEUROFIBROMA. 

A  true  neuroma  built  up  of  nerve  fibers  and  nerve  cells  is  infre- 
quent, if  it  ever  occurs,  in  cattle.  False  neuromas,  or  neurofibromas, 
are  knotty,  spreading  tumors  of  the  size  of  a  large  potato,  which  are 
developed  within  the  nerve  sheaths  and  composed  of  nerve  fibers  and 
connective  tissue  bands  interlaced.  The  commingling  of  these  varied 
fibers  is  often  so  intricate  that  separation  is  practically  impossible. 
This  tumor  is  most  frequently  found  upon  the  shoulder  of  cattle. 
Treatment  is  surgical. 

ANGIOMA. 

The  angiomas  are  tumors  composed  mainly  of  blood  vessels  or 
blood  spaces  and  are  observed  on  the  skin  of  man,  where  they  are 
called  "  birthmarks  "  or  "  mother  marks."  Cavernous  angiomas  are 
seen  in  cattle,  affecting  the  liver  and  the  mucous  membrane  of  the 
nasal  septum.  In  the  liver  they  appear  as  smooth,  flat,  nonprojecting 
tumors  of  a  dark-red  or  purple  color  and  of  about  the  size  of  a  silver 
10-cent  piece.  They  are  somewhat  softer  in  consistency  than  the 
adjoining  liver  substance  into  which  they  are  gradually  fused. 
These  tumors  are  frequently  observed  by  meat  inspectors  in  livers 
of  slaughtered  cattle.    Treatment  of  angioma  is  unnecessary. 

ADENOMA. 

The  structure  of  this  tumor  is  after  the  type  of  gland  tissue.  It  is 
rarely  seen  in  cattle  except  in  combination  with  cancer  or  sarcoma. 
A  growth  which  occurs  more  frequently  in  bovines,  especially  calves, 
and  which  in  some  instances  bears  a  striking  resemblance  to  an 
adenoma  is  the  so-called  goiter. 

GOITER   (STRUMA). 

This  is  a  noninflammatory  enlargement  or  a  hyperplasia  of  the  thy- 
roid gland.  While  it  can  not  be  definitely  classed  among  tumors, 
yet,  owing  to  its  resemblance  to  the  latter,  it  will  be  discussed  at  this 
time.  The  cause  of  goiter  has  never  been  definitely  ascertained. 
Among  the  most  probable  causes  may  be  mentioned  heredity,  insuffi- 
cient and  improper  diet,  close  confinement,  unhygienic  surroundings, 
and  an  unknown  toxic  substance  which  is  supposed  to  obtain  in  those 
localities  rich  in  magnesium  and  lime  salts.  Certain  organisms  found 
in  goiter  have  been  suspected  of  producing  this  trouble,  but  their 
relation  to  the  disease  has  not  been  satisfactorily  proved.  A  goiter 
may  consist  of  (1)  simple  enlargement  of  the  follicles  which  are  filled 
with  albuminous  matter  (follicular  goiter)  ;  (2)  an  increase  of  con- 
nective tissues  between  the  follicles,  causing  the  swelling  to  be  dense 
and  resistant  (fibrous  goiter)  ;  (3)  a  great  increase  in  size  of  one  or 
more  follicles,  forming  a  cyst  (cystic  goiter)  ;  (4)  great  dihitation  of 


TUMORS   AFFECTING    CATTLE.  309 

the  blood  vessels  in  the  gland  accompanied  with  pulsation  with  each 
heart  beat  (vascular  goiter). 

Symptoms. — Goiter  may  be  observed  at  the  side  of  the  throat, 
reaching  the  size  of  a  fist  or  even  larger,  or  it  may  hang  down  below 
the  windpipe.  In  cattle  the  two  thyroid  glands  are  close  together, 
and  when  the  disease  affects  both  there  may  be  but  one  uniform  swell- 
ing placed  in  front  of  the  windpipe  below  the  angle  of  the  jaw.  This 
swelling  may  be  hard,  soft,  or  doughy  in  consistence,  and  with  each 
beat  of  the  heart  it  may  pulsate  like  an  artery.  It  may  cause  labored 
breathing  by  pressure  on  the  windpipe,  and  death  may  result  from 
pressure  on  this  structure,  on  the  gullet,  or  on  the  adjoining  large 
vessels. 

Treatment. — In  young  animals  the  treatment  is  usually  satisfac- 
tory, and  consists  in  giving  the  animal  a  complete  change  of  feed  and 
plenty  of  exercise  in  the  open  air.  If  the  condition  appears  enzootic 
in  the  district,  remove  the  animal  to  another  location  when  possible, 
lodin,  either  in  the  form  of  ointment  or  the  tincture,  should  be  ap- 
plied to  the  swelling.  Injections  of  iodin  solution,  5  grains  of  iodin 
in  1  dram  of  25  per  cent  alcohol,  may  also  be  made  into  the  substance 
of  the  gland.  When  the  swelling  which  follows  this  injection  has 
subsided  it  may  be  repeated.  Potassium  iodid  should  be  giA'en 
internally  in  1^-dram  doses  twice  daily  for  a  cow,  or  in  20-grain  doses 
twice  a  day  for  a  calf.  Extirpation  of  all  but  a  small  section  of  the 
swelling  may  be  successfully  accomplished  by  a  qualified  veterinarian, 
but  if  it  should  be  entirely  removed,  myxedema  and  death  follow. 

FIBROMA. 

Fibromas  are  tumors  made  up  chiefly  of  connective  tissue  and  are 
usually  confined  to  the  skin  and  subcutaneous  tissue.  Indurative 
fibromas  of  the  skin  appear  as  tumors  of  gelatinous  connective  tissue 
or  as  firm,  white  vascular  connective  tissue  growths,  wdiich  are  more 
or  less  sharply  outlined,  move  readily  over  the  underlying  tissues  in 
company  with  the  skin,  and  owe  their  origin  to  mechanical  injuries, 
perforating  wounds,  repeated  abrasions,  or  the  invasion  of  pus  cocci 
or  botryomyces  into  the  tissues. 

These  tumors  in  cattle  are  frequently  found  upon  the  dewlap  as 
solid  lumps,  hard  as  stone  to  the  touch,  lying  loosely  between  the 
layers  of  skin,  and  gradually  losing  themselves  in  the  softer  tissues  of 
the  neck  above,  or  as  smooth,  hard  tumors  of  glistening  white  sub- 
stance with  interlacing  lines  of  softer  tissue.  They  may  also  be  found 
in  the  region  of  the  knee  or  at  the  elbow.  The  skin  over  the  growths, 
in  accordance  with  the  originating  cause,  will  be  found  chafed,  cov- 
ered with  scabs,  or  even  ulcerated  and  accompanied  with  collateral 
edema. 


310  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

These  connective  tissue  tumors  grow  slowly  biit  reach  enormous 
size.  They  sometimes  follow  injuries  to  the  region  of  the  throat  and 
form  there  as  hard,  firm  growth,  even  reaching  the  size  of  a  child's 
head. 

A  fibroma  upon  the  larynx  is  not  an  infrequent  occurrence  in  the 
ox.  These  tumors  are  always  sharply  outlined  and  have  a  roughened 
surface.  They  may  be  differentiated  from  actinomycotic  tumors  (see 
chapter  on  "  Infectious  diseases  of  cattle,"  p.  356)  in  the  same  location 
by  their  firm,  fibrous  structure  and  by  the  absence  of  pus  from  the 
interior. 

A  tumor  is  sometimes  seen  upoii  the  muzzle  of  cattle,  which  assumes 
a  diameter  equaling  the  width  of  the  muzzle.  It  is  a  voluminous  con- 
nective tissue  formation  known  by  the  name  of  "  fibroma  diffusum." 

Another  form  is  sometimes  observed  upon  the  tongue.  It  grows 
upon  a  broad,  spreading  base,  becoming  very  hard.  It  is  almost 
lacking  in  blood  vessels,  although  the  few  that  are  present  are  plainly 
in  view,  and  in  consequence  is  poorly  supplied  with  fluids.  It  is  of 
a  smooth  contour,  white  or  whitish  yellow  in  color,  is  sharply  limited 
from  the  normal  substance  of  the  tongue,  may  be  covered  with  mucous 
membrane,  on  which  prominent  papillae  are  located,  or  only  by  a  thin, 
delicate  layer  of  epithelium,  and  is  usually  found  in  the  middle  part 
"of  the  tongue,  where  it  may  reach  the  size  of  two  fists. 

Pedunculate  or  stemmed  fibrous  tumors  are  frequently  noticed 
growing  upon  or  near  the  extremity  of  the  tails  of  cows.  They  are 
apparently  of  traumatic  origin,  such  as  tying  the  tail  fast  while  milk- 
ing or  shaving  it  too  closely  while  trimming  for  show  purposes,  and 
usually  contain  bloody  or  gelatinous  material  within,  or,  again,  they 
may  be  strongly  edematous  throughout. 

Treatmerit. — The  treatment  of  large  fibromas  is  surgical  and  con- 
sists of  the  operative  removal  of  the  tumor,  followed  by  suturing  of 
the  wound.  Small  external  tumors  may  be  painted  with  zinc  chlorid, 
chromic  acid,  or  a  concentrated  solution  of  bichlorid  of  mercury. 

PAPILLOMA   (WART). 

When  fibromas  develop  from  the  lining  or  covering  tissues  they 
frequently  form  papillary  growths,  more  or  less  thickly  covered 
with  epithelium,  and  are  then  called  papillomas,  or  warts. 

Papillomas  consist  of  villouslike  projections,  resulting  from  a 
proliferation  of  the  outer  layer  (epithelium)  of  the  skin  or  mucous 
membrane.  These  growths  are  also  called  "  angle  berries,"  and 
may  assume  a  variety  of  forms.  Sometimes  there  is  a  preponderance 
of  epidermis  in  the  formation,  and  the  tumor  then  appears  as  a  hard, 
dense,  insensitive,  clublike  growth,  or  wart.  Again  the  swelling  is 
chiefly  in  the  derm,  or  true  skin,  and  we  have  what  is  known  as  a 
flesh  wart  (verucca  carnea).     In  other  cases  the  growth  of  papillar 


TUMORS   AFFECTING    CATTLE.  "  311 

bodies  projects  in  great  cauliflowerlike  tumors  with  deeply  furrowed 
and  lobulated  surface,  over  which  a  covering  of  epidermis  may  or 
may  not  be  present.  These  are  usually  much  softer  and  are  well 
supplied  with  blood  vessels.  It  is  not  uncommon  for  them  to  be 
pedunculate  or  stemmed,  and  in  this  case  considerable  rotary  motion 
or  twisting  is  possible.  Their  color  is  cloudy  gray  or  grayish  red, 
with  white  bands  of  connective  tissue  radiating  from  the  center. 
Their  consistence  varies.  Upon  their  surfaces  and  within  their  clefts 
and  fissures  they  undergo  retrogressive  changes,  softening,  bleeding, 
or  ulcerations. 

A  favorite  location  for  the  papilloma  in  cattle  is  the  udder  and 
teats,  where  they  may  develop  in  such  numbers  as  to  cover  the  entire 
surface  and  make  the  animal  troublesome  to  milk.  The  sides  of  the 
head,  neck,  and  shoulders  also  afford  satisfactory  conditions  for 
their  growth,  and  are  frequently  seen  to  be  affected  by  them. 

Treatment. — Warts  may  be  removed  with  the  scissors,  twisted  off 
with  the  fingers,  or  ligatured  by  means  of  a  rubber  band  or  horse- 
hair. The  roots  should  then  be  cauterized  with  tincture  of  iron, 
glacial  acetic  acid,  or  lunar  caustic.  Acids  should  never  be  used  in 
removing  warts  about  the  eyes  or  in  the  mouth.  Papillomas  of  the 
eyelids  sometimes  change  to  cancers  and  should  be  removed  by  taking 
out  a  wedge-shaped  section  of  the  eyelid.  Young  cattle  should  be 
given  arsenic  internally  in  the  form  of  Fowler's  solution,  1  table- 
spoonful  twice  a  day  for  a  6-months-old  calf. 

POLYPS. 

Polyps  are  usually  fibromas  or  myxomas,  occurring  on  the  mucous 
membrane  of  the  nasal  passages  or  genital  tract.  They  grow  upon 
a  narrow  stem,  bleed  readily  when  injured,  and  often  contain  a 
center  of  thin,  limpid  fluid.  A  bloody  discharge  is  sometimes  seen 
coming  from  the  affected  nostril,  but  this  is  not  always  easy  of 
detection  in  cattle,  owing  to  the  pliancy  of  their  tongues  and  to  their 
habit  of  licking  an  irritated  nostril.  Usually  these  tumors  grow 
downward  and  may  project  from  the  nostril,  causing  snoring  sounds 
and  uneasy  breathing.  They  may  occasionally  force  themselves  back- 
ward into  the  throat,  where  they  interfere  seriously  with  respiration, 
the  patient  being  obliged  to  breathe  with  an  effort,  and  even  forced 
to  cough  in  order  to  dislodge  temporarily  the  obstruction  from  the 
larynx.  Such  tumors,  when  near  the  nostril,  may  easily  be  removed 
by  the  use  of  forceps  or  a  loop  made  of  bailing  wire.  Serious  bleed- 
ing is  not  liable  to  follow  their  removal,  but  an  astringent  wash,  such 
as  a  solution  of  the  perchlorid  of  iron,  if  applied  to  the  cut  surface, 
will  be  found  very  beneficial.  In  case  the  tumor  is  not  within  easy 
reach,  the  services  of  a  qualified  veterinarian  should  be  obtained  to 
perform  the  necessary  operation. 


312  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

LIPOMA. 

This  is  a  tumor  consisting  chiefly  of  fat  cells.  The  growth  is 
irregularly  rounded  and  distinctly  lobulated,  very  soft,  and  almost 
fluctuating.  It  is  insensitive,  grows  slowly,  and  is  always  inclosed 
in  a  distinct  fibrous  capsule,  from  which  it  can  be  easily  shelled  out. 
It  may  become  very  large  and  often  hangs  pendulous  from  a  long, 
elastic  pedicle.  In  cattle  this  tumor  may  be  found  in  the  subcu- 
taneous tissues,  especially  of  the  back  and  shoulders,  uterus,  and 
intestines,  and  in  the  latter  position  it  may  cause  strangulation,  or 
"  gut  tie,"  by  winding  around  a  loop  of  the  intestine. 

Treatment. — When  found  on  the  skin  the  tumor  may  be  readily 
removed  with  a  knife  or  by  a  ligature.  Caustics  and  the  cautery 
produce  wounds  that  heal  slowly  and  can  not  be  recommended  in  the 
treatment  of  this  tumor. 

CHONDROMA. 

This  tumor  formation  is  composed  of  cartilage  cells.  It  is  a 
rounded  and  very  often  unevenly  nodular  and  sharply  described 
tumor.  It  is  very  hard,  dense,  elastic,  and  painless  and  develops 
principally  where  we  find  normal  cartilage  cells.  It  is  rare  in  cattle, 
but  has  been  found  in  the  subcutaneous  tissues  and  nasal  cavities. 

Treatment. — Extirpation. 

OSTEOMA    (BONY  TUMOR). 

Bones  may  occasionally  grov  in.  such  a  profuse  and  irregular 
manner  that  the  product,  or  osteophyte,  assumes  the  character  of  a 
tumor.  The  bone  tissue  may  possess  either  spongy  or  compact  prop- 
erties and  grow  either  from  the  periphery  of  the  bone  or  within  its 
interior.  These  tumors  most  frequently  appear  about  the  head  of 
the  animal,  either  upon  the  jawbones,  within  the  nasal  passages,  or 
in  connection  with  the  horns.  They  are  usually  of  bony  hardness, 
painless,  benign,  and  sharply  outlined. 

TreaPment. — The  treatment  consists  in  either  removing  them  with 
a  saw,  chisel,  or  trephine,  or  preventing  their  further  development 
by  counterirritation  with  blisters  or  firing  iron. 

MYXOMA. 

Characteristic  myxomas  are  mucoid  tumors  which  chiefly  originate 
from  the  mucous  membrane  and  are  especially  to  be  found  within 
the  nasal  passages  and  uterus  of  cattle.  They  can  reach  a  size  of 
three  fists,  are  smooth  or  velvetlike,  or  may  be  lobulated,  broad  at  the 
base,  and  consist  of  a  glassy-looking  mass  of  connective  tissue,  which 
usually  shows  a  distinctive  yellowish  color.  Being  homogeneous  and 
elastic,  the  moist,  jelly  like  tissue  composing  the  tumor  muv  be  easily 


TUMOES    AFFECTING    CATTLE.  313 

destroyed  or  crushed.    When  cut  through,  these  tumors  soon  collapse 
from  the  loss  of  their  fluids.    They  sometimes  inclose  elliptical  cavi- 
ties filled  with  slimy,  gelatinous  masses. 
TreatTnent. — Extirpation. 

SARCOMA. 

This  is  a  malignant  tumor  after  the  type  of  embryonal  tissue,  and 
consists  of  several  varieties,  such  as  the  round  cell,  spindle  cell, 
giant  cell,  alveolar,  and  melanosarcoma.  They  grow  by  preference 
in  connective  tissue  and  are  quite  vascular.  Sarcomas  appear  either 
as  single  or  multiple  nodules,  A'arying  in  size  from  a  hempseed  to  a 
hazelnut,  or  else  as  a  moderate  number  of  tumors  of  the  size  of  hen 
eggs.  Their  surface,  at  first  smooth,  later  becomes  lumpy  and  tuber- 
ous from  internal  degeneration.  Secondary  nodules  may  appear 
near  the  primary  tumor.  The  outer  skin  is  not  involved  so  soon  as 
in  cancer,  nor  does  ulceration  follow  so  rapidly.  Sarcoma  is  about 
the  most  frequent  and  dangerous  tumor  that  is  found  in  cattle.  It 
occurs  in  young  animals,  and  is  found  on  the  serous  membranes,  in 
the  glandular  organs,  and  on  the  outer  skin,  especially  of  the  neck 
and  shoulders — in  fact,  in  nearly  every  tissue  and  in  almost  every 
part  of  the  body.  This  tumor  is  often  found  in  places  exposed  to 
traumatisms  and  at  seats  of  scars,  or  of  irritations  from  pressure  and 
inflammation. 

Treatment. — Treatment  should  consist  in  early  and  complete  re- 
moval by  the  knife,  including  one-half  or  three-quarters  of  an  inch 
of  the  sound  tissue  adjoining  the  tumor.  If  there  is  a  possibility 
that  sarcomatous  tissue  still  remains,  either  cauterize  the  wound  with 
a  hot  iron  or  powder  the  walls  of  the  cavity  with  arsenious  acid. 

CANCER    (CARCINOMA). 

Cancers  are  tumors  of  epithelial  tissues  and  are  malignant.  There 
are  several  varieties  of  cancers,  such  as  hard,  soft,  and  colloid,  but 
only  those  growing  on  the  surface  will  be  mentioned  here.  These 
malignant  tumors  of  the  superficial  organs  develop  primarily  from 
the  epidermis  or  from  the  glands  of  the  skin.  They  appear  second- 
arily as  spreading  infections  from  milk  glands,  thryoids,  anal  glands, 
or  as  embolisms.  In  such  cases  their  sole  character  depends  wholly 
upon  the  kind  of  cancer  from  which  they  have  sprung.  The  infil- 
trating cancer  begins  as  an  elevation  of  the  skin,  which  progresses 
until  it  becomes  rough  and  nodular.  The  surface  later  becomes 
attacked,  and  an  ulcer  results  whose  edges  are  outlined  by  a  hard, 
firm  zone. 

The  ulcerations  may  remain  limited  by  cicatricial  tissue,  but  it  is 
more  likely  that  the  infiltration  and  destruction  of  tissue  will  spread 
out  wider  and  deeper  until  a  rodent  ulcer  (so  called)  is  formed. 
One  of  the  most  frequent  sites  of  cancer  in  cattle  is  in  the  e3^e,  where 


314  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

they  are  called  fungus  hematodes,  but  they  also  occur  on  the  skin, 
on  the  genitals,  in  the  stomach,  and  within  the  organs. 

Fungus  hematodes. — This  starts  at  the  inner  corner  of  the  eye  as 
a  papillary  elevation  or  as  small  nodules  which  become  fused.  They 
grow  larger  and  become  papillomatous,  with  superficial  ulcerations 
and  a  tendency  toward  hemorrhage.  In  some  cases  the  eye  is  dis- 
placed by  the  growing  tumor  or  is  attacked  by  the  cancer  cells  and 
entirely  destroyed. 

Cancerous  growths  upon  the  external  genitals  and  the  anus  usually 
present  a  rough,  irregular  surface  from  which  there  is  a  constant 
sloughing  of  decomposed  tissue  accompanied  with  a  penetrating  dis- 
agreeable odor. 

The  diagnosis  of  cancer  may  be  made  clinically  by  noting  the 
simultaneous  infection  of  the  lymph  glands  which  surround  the  pri- 
mary lesion.  Deeply  burrowing  and  infiltrating  forms  which  ap- 
pear as  lumps  and  ulcerations  cause  marked  disfiguration  of  the 
affected  part.  The  surface  becomes  a  soft,  greasy  mass;  later  it 
cracks  open  and  from  the  fissures  blood-colored  pus  exudes,  being 
continually  formed  by  the  moist  degeneration  of  the  tissues  beneath. 
At  first  the  general  health  of  the  animal  does  not  appear  affected, 
but  later  the  cancer  nodules  spread  to  important  organs  and  give 
rise  to  marasmus  and  progressive  emaciation.  Cancer  is  not  a  fre- 
quent tumor  of  cows.  Frohner  states  that  of  75  cases  of  tumors  in 
cattle  which  came  under  his  observation  2,  or  2.6  per  cent,  were 
found  to  be  cancers,  while  20,  or  26.6  per  cent,  were  sarcomas. 

Treatment. — Treatment  consists  in  the  early  and  complete  removal 
of  the  tumor,  taking  care  to  include  a  wide  border  of  healthy  tissue. 
This  has  been  most  successful  in  such  superficial  cancers  as  those  of 
the  eye,  penis,  anus,  testicle,  vulva,  and  sheath.  If  the  disease  has 
advanced  too  far,  this  treatment  may  not  prove  efficacious,  owing  to 
the  great  malignancy  of  the  cancer  and  its  tendency  to  recur.  In 
such  cases  the  animal  may  be  slaughtered,  but  the  flesh  should  be 
used  for  food  only  after  inspection  by  a  competent  veterinarian. 

CYSTS. 

Cysts  may  be  true  or  false  tumors  and  consist  of  a  capsule  contain- 
ing a  fluid  or  semisolid  content.  Among  the  most  important  cysts, 
which  have  been  briefly  referred  to  in  a  previous  table,  the  following 
are  probably  the  most  noteworthy,  owing  to  the  frequency  with  which 
they  are  found  in  bovines : 

SOFTENING  CYSTS. 

Softening  cysts,  which  result  from  the  degenerative  liquefaction  of 
normal  or  diseased  tissues,  especially  of  tumors  of  different  kinds, 
followed  by  the  encapsulation  of  the  fluid. 


TUMORS    AFFECTING    CATTLE.  315 

PARASITIC   CYSTS. 

Parasitic  "or  foreign-body  cysts,  from  the  inflammatory  reaction 
induced  by  such  parasites  as  the  echinococcus  (hydatid  cyst)  or  by 
the  presence  of  various  kinds  of  foreign  bodies. 

EXTRAVASATION   CYSTS. 

Extravasation  cysts,  caused  by  injuries  which  rupture  blood  ves- 
sels, followed  by  an  increase  of  fibrous  tissue  which  forms  a  capsule 
about  the  fluid.  The  hygromata  in  front  of  the  knee  in  cattle,  so- 
called  tumor  of  the  knee,  and  serous  cysts  belong  to  this  variety. 

Hygromata,  or  tumors  of  the  knee. — These  consist  in  the 
simplest  form  of  a  collection  of  serous  fluid  mixed  with  fibrin  within 
a  distended  bursa.  The  walls  surrounding  the  fluid  become  firm, 
smooth,  and  dense. 

Outwardly  the  tumor  appears  fluctuating,  though  tense,  while  the 
skjn  which  covers  it  may  be  normal,  denuded  of  hair,  or  covered 
with  hard  epidermal  scales,  possibly  half  an  inch  in  thickness,  form- 
ing a  hard,  horny  plate.  The  cavity  which  contains  the  fluid  may 
have  the  dimensions  of  a  hen's  egg,  an  apple,  or  a  child's  head.  Its 
walls  are  formed  by  the  diseased  secreting  membrane  of  the  bursal 
sac,  and  are  readily  detachable  from  the  subcutis  of  the  skin.  Their 
internal  surfaces  are  often  uneven  or  supplied  with  projections  or 
tufted  growths  which  support  a  fibrous  network  within  the  tumor. 

Tumors  of  the  knee  may  also  assume  a  granular  type,  as  the  result 
of  chronic  inflammation  or  following  operative  or  spontaneous  evac- 
uation of  pus  from  the  part.  They  are  either  firmly  connected  with 
the  skin  or  are  detachable  from  it,  and  when  laid  open  disclose  a 
whitish-red,  porklike  tissue  surrounding  a  central  nucleus  of  pus,  or 
a  fistulous  tract  leading  to  the  outer  surface.  They  are  caused  by  the 
chronic  inflammation  which  follows  the  bruises  received  by  cattle  in 
lying  down  and  in  rising,  or  they  may  be  due  to  falls  on  uneven,  hard 
ground. 

Treatrnjent  for  hygromata. — When  the  swelling  first  appears  cold 
water  should  be  applied,  followed  later  by  bandaging  with  cloths 
wrung  out  of  warm  water.  If  the  swelling  is  soft,  it  should  be  punc- 
tured at  the  lowest  point,  and  afterwards  the  cavity  should  be 
syringed  with  Lugol's  solution.  If  the  tumor  is  hard  and  nonfluctu- 
ating,  a  mercurial  blister  may  cause  absorption  and  at  the  same  time 
prevent  further  injury  to  the  part  by  making  it  more  painful,  thus 
sparing  it. 

Serous  cysts. — These  swellings  are  another  variety  of  extravasa- 
tion cysts,  and  are  caused  by  such  injuries  as  butting,  running 
against  hard  objects,  and  shipping  ])juises,  which  are  folloAved  by  an 
outpouring  of  blood  and  lymph  into  the  tissue  spaces.     These  cysts 


316  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

develop  rapidly  and  may  reach  the  size  of  a  man's  head  or  even 
larger.  They  are  soft,  edematous,  and  hot  at  first  and  contain  a 
serous  or  blood-tinged  fluid.  Later,  partially  organized  clots  and 
shreds  of  a  fibrinous  nature  and  of  a  gelatinous  consistence  are 
formed  within,  and  the  temperature  of  the  swelling  is  reduced. 
They  appear  on  the  surface  of  the  body,  especially  on  the  belly  and 
flank  of  cattle. 

Treatment  of  serous  cysts. — Treatment  consists  in  opening  the  cyst 
at  the  most  dependent  point  with  a  sharp  knife.  The  cavity  should 
be  washed  out  twice  daily  with  a  5  per  cent  solution  of  carbolic  acid, 
and  drainage  encouraged  by  keeping  the  incision  open. 

DERMOID  CYSTS. 

These  cysts  have  a  wall  which  is  almost  an  exact  duplicate  of  the 
structure  of  the  skin,  and  frequently  contain  epidermal  structures, 
such  as  hair  and  teeth,  which,  in  the  development  of  the  embryo,  have 
been  misplaced.  Thus  we  may  find  in  an  ovary  or  testicle  a  dermoid 
cyst,  containing  a  tooth  or  a  ball  of  hair.  Dental  cysts  are  included 
in  the  class  above. 

Dental  cysts. — It  happens  occasionally  that  the  teeth  of  cattle,  in- 
stead of  developing  normally  within  strong  supporting  alveolae,  re- 
main inclosed  within  a  cystic  membrane,  which  assumes  a  tumorlike 
character.  One  tooth  may  be  included  alone  in  the  cyst  or  a  number 
may  be  inclosed  together.  However  this  may  be,  the  malformation 
progresses,  especially  if  confined  to  the  incisor  teeth,  until  the  remain- 
ing teeth  that  began  to  develop  normally  are  crowded  out  of  posi- 
tion and  rendered  useless.  The  tumor  may  reach  the  size  of  a  man's 
fist.  It  appears  to  be  fleshy  and  dents  upon  pressure,  but  it  may  also 
appear  on  closer  examination  as  though  it  contained  irregular  sec- 
tions of  thin  bone.  The  outer  surface  is  always  smooth,  and  no 
indication  of  purulence,  softening,  or  scab  formation  is  ever  ex- 
hibited. Upon  being  laid  open  with  the  knife  the  tumor  is  seen  to  be 
surrounded  by  a  firm,  smooth  membrane  which  limits  it  completely 
from  the  adjoining  tissues.  It  is  filled  with  material  which  possesses 
partly  edematous,  partly  fleshy,  and  partly  bony  properties.  It  is 
supposed  that  this  mass  is  composed  of  rudiments  of  the  jaAvbone  or 
of  the  alveolar  walls  which,  becoming  spongy,  lose  themselves  in  the 
soft,  fleshy  mass  contained  within  the  capsule  of  the  tumor.  It  oc- 
casionally happens  that  the  tumor  is  hollow  and  that  the  cavity  ex- 
tends back  into  the  body  of  the  lower  jaw  for  a  considerable  distance. 

Tumors  of  this  kind,  being  of  congential  origin,  are  very  naturally 
observed  most  frequently  in  young  cattle,  but  they  may  continue  to 
expand  for  a  period  of  several  months  after  the  birth  of  the  calf, 
even  until  they  become  troublesome  and  unsightly. 


TUMORS    AFFECTING    CATTLE.  317 

Treatment  for  dental  cysts. — Treatment  consists  in  the  complete 
extirpation  of  the  cyst  and  the  destruction  of  the  lining  pouch  by 
curetting. 

RETENTION  CYSTS. 

Retention  cysts  arise  from  the  retention  of  normal  secretions, 
owing  to  obstruction  of  a  duct  leading  from  a  gland.  The  mucous 
cysts  found  in  the  mouth,  udder,  and  vestibule  of  cows  are  samples 
of  this  form. 

Mucous  CYSTS. — Saclike  dependent  tvunors,  caused  by  retention  of 
the  secretions  from  the  mucous  glands,  sometimes  develop  in  the 
mouth,  nose,  pharynx,  and  vulva  of  cattle.  They  are  called  "  mucous 
cysts."  These  are  of  sizes  varying  from  peas  to  pigeon  eggs,  are 
roundish  and  translucent,  and  surrounded  by  a  delicate,  vascular  mem- 
brane. They  contain  a  siruplike  substance  more  or  less  thick  and 
transparent  and  whitish  yellow  in  color. 

Treatment  consists  in  the  puncturing  of  the  swelling,  if  accessible, 
and  the  destruction  of  the  cyst  walls  by  the  injection  of  Lugol's 
solution. 

PROLIFERATION  CYSTS. 

These  are  found  especially  in  the  ovaries  of  cows,  called  "  cystic 
ovaries,"  and  may  produce  nymphomania   (chronic  bulling). 

The  treatment  indicated  in  this  case  is  the  removal  of  the  diseased 
ovaries. 


DISEASES  OF  THE  SKIN. 

By  M.  It.  Tkumbowek,  D.  V.  S. 
[Revised  by  John  R.  Moliler,  V.  M.  D.] 

GENERAL  DISCUSSION. 

The  skin  consists  of  two  parts — a  superficial  layer,  the  epidermis, 
or  cuticle,  and  the  deep,  or  true,  skin,  the  dermis,  cutis  vera,  or 
corium. 

The  epidermis,  cuticle,  or  scarf  skin,  is  an  epithelial  structure, 
forming  a  protective  covering  to  the  corium.  It  varies  in  thickness, 
is  quite  insensible  and  nonvascular,  and  consists  of  a  sheet  of  cells. 

The  epidermis  is  divided  into  a  firm  and  transparent  superficial 
and  a  deep,  soft  layer.  The  latter  is  the  rete  mucosum,  whose  cells 
contain  the  pigment  which  giA^es  color  to  the  skin.-  The  deep  sur- 
face of  the  epidermis  is  accurately  molded  on  the  papillary  layer  of 
the  true  skin,  and,  when  removed  by  maceration,  presents  depres- 
sions which  correspond  to  the  elevations  on  the  dermis.  From  the 
cuticle  tubular  prolongations  pass  into  the  sebaceous  and  sudorific 
glands ;  thus  the  entire  surface  of  the  body  is  inclosed  by  the  cuticle. 

The  dermis,  or  true  skin,  is  vascular  and  highly  sensitive,  contain- 
ing the  tactile  ends  of  the  nerves  of  touch.  It  is  covered  by  epi- 
dermis and  attached  to  the  underlying  parts  by  a  layer  of  areolar 
tissue,  which  usually  contains  fat.  The  cutis  consists  of  a  fibro- 
areolar  tissue  and  vessels  of  supply.  It  is  divided  into  two  layers, 
the  deep,  or  true,  corium  and  the  upper,  or  papillary.  The  corium 
consists  of  strong  interlacing  fibrous  bands,  chiefly  white ;  its  meshes 
are  larger  and  more  open  toward  the  attached  surface,  giving  lodg- 
ment to  the  sweat  glands  and  fat.  The  papillary,  or  superficial, 
layer  is  formed  of  a  series  of  small  conical  eminences  or  papilla?, 
which  are  highly  sensitive,  and  consists  of  a  homogenous,  transparent 
tissue.  The  blood  vessels  form  dense  capillary  plexuses  in  the 
corium,  terminating  by  loops  in  the  papillae.  The  papillary  nerves 
run  in  a  waving  manner,  usually  terminating  in  loops. 

Hair  is  an  appendage  of  the  skin  and  forms  its  external  covering. 
It  is  a  special  modification  of  epidermis,  having  the  same  essential 
structure,  and  consists  of  a  root,  shaft,  and  point.  The  root  has  a 
bulbous  extremity,  is  lighter  and  softer  than  the  stem,  and  is  lodged 
in  a  recess  or  hair  follicle,  which  may  either  be  in  the  corium  or  sub- 
cutaneous areolae.  The  follicle  is  dilated  at  the  bottom  to  correspond 
318 


DISEASES    OF    THE    SKIN.  319- 

to  the  root  bulb,  and  the  ducts  of  one  or  more  sebaceous  glands  open 
mto  it.  At  the  bottom  of  each  follicle  is  a  concial,  vascular  papilla, 
similar  in  every  respect  to  those  on  the  surface  of  the  dermis;  this 
papilla  fits  into  a  corresponding  depression  in  the  root  of  the  hair. 
The  shaft  consists  of  a  center,  or  medulla,  a  surrounding  fibrous 
portion,  and  an  external  coating,  or  cortex.  The  medulla  consists 
of  cells  containing  pigment  or  fat,  is  opaque,  and  deeply  colored. 
All  kinds  of  hair  do  not  have  this  medulla.  The  fibrous  portion 
occupies  the  bulk  of  the  stem,  and  the  cortex  is  merely  a  single 
la3^er  of  thin,  flat,  imbricated  (shinglelike)  scales. 

The  sebaceous  glands,  lodged  in  the  corium,  are  most  abundant  in 
parts  exposed  to  friction.  They  generally  open  into  the  hair  follicles, 
occasionally  on  the  surface  of  the  body.  Each  gland  consists  of  a 
small  duct  which  terminates  in  a  lobulated  recess.  These  lobules 
vary,  and  are,  as  is  the  duct,  lined  with  epithelium.  They  are  filled 
with  sebaceous  matter  which,  as  it  is  secreted,  is  detached  into  the 
sacs.    They  are  very  plentiful  between  the  claws  of  cattle. 

The  sudorific  glands,  or  sAveat  glands,  are  situated  in  the  subcuta- 
neous areolar  tissue,  surrounded  by  a  quantity  of  fat.  They  are 
small,  round,  reddish  bodies,  each  of  which  consists  of  one  or  more 
fine  tubes  coiled  into  a  ball,  the  free  end  of  the  tube  being  continued 
up  through  the  true  skin  and  cuticle,  and  opening  on  the  surface. 
Each  sweat  gland  is  supplied  with  a  cluster  of  capillary  blood  ves- 
sels which  vary  in  size,  being  very  large  when  perspiration  is  exces- 
sive. The  contents  of  the  smaller  ones  are  fluid,  and  of  the  larger, 
semifluid. 

The  skin  may  be  regarded  as  an  organ  supplementary  in  its  action 
to  the  lungs  and  kidneys,  since  by  its  secretion  it  is  capable  of  remov- 
ing a  considerable  quantity  of  water  from  the  blood ;  it  also  removes 
small  quantities  of  carbon  dioxid  of  salts,  and  in  certain  instances 
during  suppression  of  the  renal  secretions  a  small  quantity  of  urea. 
The  skin  is  also  the  chief  organ  for  the  regulation  of  animal  heat, 
by  or  through  conduction,  radiation,  and  evaporation  of  water,  per- 
mitting of  loss  of  heat,  while  it  also,  through  other  mechanisms,  is 
able  to  regulate  the  heat  lost.  The  hair  furnishes  protection  against 
extreme  and  sudden  variations  of  temperature  by  reason  of  the  fact 
that  hairs  are  poor  conductors  of  heat,  and  inclose  between  them  a 
still  layer  of  air,  itself  a  nonconductor.  The  hairs  are  also  furnished 
with  an  apparatus  by  which  the  loss  of  heat  may  be  regulated ;  thus, 
in  cold  weather,  through  the  contraction  of  unstriped  muscidar  fibers 
of  the  skin,  the  hairs  become  erect  and  the  external  coat  becomes 
thicker.  Cold,  too,  acts  as  a  stimulus  to  the  growth  of  hair,  and  we 
find,  in  consequence,  a  thicker  coat  in  winter  than  in  summer.  The 
hairs  also  furnish  protection  against  wet,  as  they  are  always  more 
or  less  oily  from  the  secretion  of  sebaceous  glands,  and  thus  shed 


320  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

water.  Through  their  elasticity  they  furnish  mechanical  protection, 
and  through  the  thickness  of  the  coat,  to  a  certain  degi'ee,  resist  the 
attacks  of  insects.    Finally,  the  hairs  assist  the  sense  of  touch. 

The  sweat  glands  are  constantly  discharging  a  watery  secretion  in 
the  form  of  insensible  perspiration,  and  by  their  influence  act  as 
regulators  of  the  temperature  of  the  body :  hence,  in  warm  weather, 
the  secretion  of  the  skin  is  increased,  which  tends  to  prevent  over- 
heating. Sweating,  in  addition  to  regulating  heat,  is  also  an  active 
agent  in  removing  effete  material  from  the  blood;  therefore  this 
secretion  can  not  be  checked  without  danger.  If  the  skin  is  covered 
with  an  impermeable  coating  of  grease  or  tar,  death  results  from 
blood  poisoning,  owing  to  the  retention  of  materials  destined  to  be 
excreted  by  the  skin. 

All  secretion  poured  out  by  the  skin  is  not  only  modified  by  the 
condition  of  the  atmosphere  but  also  by  the  character  and  quantity 
of  the  food,  by  the  amount  of  exercise,  and  especially  by  the  quantity 
of  fluid  taken. 

The  sebaceous  secretion  isintended  to  lubricate  the  skin  and  hairs. 
It  consists  of  soft,  fatty  material  suspended  in  water,  and  is  charac- 
terized by  an  odor  peculiar  to  the  animal  by  which  it  is  secreted. 

I  will  not  attempt  to  classify  the  various  diseases  of  the  skin,  for 
in  a  work  of  this  kind  it  would  serve  only  to  confuse  the  reader. 

We  shall  first  consider  a  class  of  diseases  which  are  of  an  inflamma- 
tory type;  next,  those  caused  by  faulty  secretion  and  abnormal 
growth;  then,  diseases  of  parasitic  origin;  lastly,  local  injuries  of 
the  skin. 

PRURITIS  (ITCHING). 

We  shall  consider  pruritis  first  as  a  distinct  subject.  It  is  not  a 
disease,  only  a  sensation,  and  therefore  a  symptom.  It  is  one  of  the 
symptoms  accompanjdng  the  majority  of  the  diseases  which  we  will 
consider  in  this  chapter.  It  is,  then,  a  functional  affection  produced 
by  slight  irritation  from  without  or  by  an  internal  cause  acting 
upon  the  sensory  nerves  of  the  skin.  Nothing  characteristic  is  seen 
except  the  secondary  lesions,  produced  mechanically  by  scratching  or 
rubbing. 

There  are  various  forms  of  itching,  the  result  of  specific  skin  dis- 
eases, where  the  pruritis  is  a  secondary  symptom.  In  such  cases  it 
should  not  be  regarded  as  an  independent  affection. 

Causes. — Many  causes  may  induce  the  condition  which  we  recog- 
nize here  as  pruritis.  The  most  common  one  is  dirt  on  the  skin, 
resulting  from  insufficient  care.  If  the  ceiling  of  the  stable  is  open, 
so  that  dust  and  straw  may  fall,  the  skin  is  irritated  and  pruritis 
results.    It  also  occurs  in  some  forms  of  indigestion. 

The  parts  of  the  body  most  exposed  to  this  condition  are  the  croup, 
the  back,  the  top  of  the  neck,  and  the  root  of  the  tail. 


DISEASES    OF    THE    SKIN.  321 

.  Another  cause  is  found  in  affections  of  tlie  liver  and  of  the  kidneys, 
when  an  increase  of  effete  material  has  to  be  thrown  off  by  the  skin. 
Morbid  materials  circulating  in  the  blood  nvAj  produce  a  tickling  or 
smarting  sensation  of  the  skin  in  their  passage  from  the  blood  to  the 
free  surface  of  the  skin.  Certain  irritating  substances  when  eaten 
may  be  excreted  by  the  skin,  and  coming  thus  in  direct  contact  with 
the  sensory  nerves  produce  itching,  or  may  go  further  and  cause  dis- 
tinct inflammation  of  the  skin.  In  another  class  of  cases  the  j)ruritis 
may  be  ascribable  to  an  atrophj^,  contraction,  or  hardening  of  the 
skin,  when  the  nerves  become  irritated  by  the  pressure.  These  con- 
ditions may  be  so  slightly  marked  in  a  thick  skin  like  that  of  the  ox 
that  they  can  not  be  recognized.  It  is  frequently  noticed  that  cattle 
rub  themselves  as  soon  as  the}''  pass  from  the  stable  into  the  open 
air — changing  from  a  warm  to  a  cold  atmosphere.  Again,  we  may 
find  one  that  does  all  its  rubbing  in  the  stall.  We  may  look  for  lice, 
but  fail  to  find  them.  These  conditions  are  generally  attributable  to 
high  feeding  and  to  too  close  confinement.  They  may  be  associated 
with  inflammatory  irritation  or  not ;  certainly  we  fail  to  discoA^er  any 
morbid  changes  in  the  skin.  There  is  to  some  extent  a  delightful 
sensation  produced  by  rubbing,  and  it  m.ay  partly  become  a  habit 
of  pleasure. 

Treatment. — We  must  place  our  chief  reliance  upon  a  change  of 
food,  plenty  of  exercise,  and  in  most  cases  the  administration  of  an 
active  cathartic — 1  to  1^  pounds  of  Epsom  salt,  a  handful  of  com- 
mon salt,  a  tablespoonful  of  ginger  or  pepper,  mixed  with  2  quarts 
of  water,  all  of  which  is  to  be  given  at  one  dose.  Afterwards  half 
an  ounce  of  hyposulphite  of  soda  mixed  with  the  feed  may  be  given 
twice  a  day  for  a  week.  For  an  external  application,  when  the  skin 
is  abraded  or  thickened  from  rubbing,  a  solution  of  borax,  4  ounces 
to  the  quart  of  water,  ma}''  be  used.  Carbolic  acid,  -|  ounce  to  a 
quart  of  water,  will  give  relief  in  some  cases. 

INFLAMMATORY  DISEASES  OF  THE  SKIN 

ERYTHEMA. 

This  is  the  simplest  form  of  inflammation  of  the  skin.  It  consists 
of  an  increased  redness,  which  \\\^j  occur  in  patches  or  involve  con- 
siderable surface.  The  red  coloration  disappears  when  pressed  by 
the  finger,  but  soon  returns  after  the  pressure  is  removed.  There  is 
seldom  much  swelling  of  the  affected  part,  "though  often  there  is  a 
glutinous  discharge  which  dries  and  mats  the  hair  or  forms  a  thin 
scale  upon  the  skin.  In  simple  erythema  the  epidermis  alone  is 
affected ;  when  it  becomes  chronic,  fissures  form  and  extend  into  the 
corium,  or  true  skin. 

Causes. — Simple  erythema,  consisting  of  an  inflammatory  irrita- 
tion, is  seen  in  very  j^oung  calves,  in  which  the  navels  leak.  The  dis- 
33071°— 16 ^21 


322  DISEASES  OF   CATTLE. 

charge  being'  urine,  it  causes  an  irritation  of  the  surrounding  skin. 
Chafing,  which  is  another  form  of  erythema,  is  occasionally  seen 
on  the  udder  of  cows  from  rubbing  by  the  legs;  chafing  between 
the  legs  is  not  uncommon  among  fat  steers.  Chronic  erythema  is 
found  in  the  form  of  chapped  teats  of  cows  and  chapped  lips  in 
sucking  calves.  It  frequently  occurs  in  cows  when  they  are  turned 
out  in  winter  directly  after  milking,  and  in  others  from  chafing  by 
the  sucking  calf.  Some  cows  are  peculiarly  subject  to  sore  teats. 
The  fissures  when  neglected  in  the  early  stage  of  formation  become 
deep,  A^ery  painful,  often  l)leeding  at  the  slightest  touch,  and  when 
milked  in  that  condition  cause  the  animal  to  become  a  kicker.  Occa- 
sionally the  lower  portions  of  the  legs  become  irritated  and  chapped 
when  cattle  are  fed  in  a  muddy  or  wet  yard  in  winter,  or  if  they  are 
compelled  to  wade  through  water  in  frosty  weather.  Another  form 
of  erythema  occurs  in  young  cattle  highly  fed  and  closely  stabled  for 
a  long  winter.  The  erythema  appears  in  patches,  and  as  it  is  most 
common  near  the  end  of  the  winter  it  is  known  as  the  "  spring  erup- 
tion "  or  "  spring  itch." 

Treatment. — In  ordinary  cases  of  erythema  the  removal  of  the 
cause  and  the  application  of  benzoated  oxid  of  zinc  ointment,  car- 
bolized  cosmoline,  or  ichthyol  ointment  applied  a  few  times,  will 
restore  the  skin  to  a  healthy  condition. 

When  there  are  fissures  the  zinc  ointment  is  the  best.  If  at  the 
teats,  a  milk  siphon  (PI.  XXIV,  fig.  4)  should  be  used  instead  of 
milking  by  hand,  and  the  calf,  if  one  is  suckled,  should  be  taken  away. 
The  calf  should  be  fed  by  hand  if  its  mouth  is  affected.  ^V^len  the 
legs  are  irritated  or  chapped,  dry  stabling  for  a  few  days  and  the 
application  of  tar  ointment  will  soon  heal  them. 

URTICARIA    (NETTLE  RASH,  OR  SURFEIT). 

This  is  a  mild,  inflammatory  affection  of  the  skin,  characterized  by 
sudden  development  of  patches  of  various  sizes,  from  that  of  a  nickel 
to  one  as  large  as  the  hand.  The  patches  of  raised  skin  are  marked 
by  an  abrupt  border  and  are  irregular  in  form.  All  the  swelling  may 
disappear  in  a  few  hours,  or  it  may  go  away  in  one  place  and  reap- 
pear on  another  part  of  the  body.  It  is  always  accompanied  with 
a  great  desire  to  rub  the  affected  part.  In  its  simplest  type,  as  just 
described,  it  is  never  followed  by  any  serous  exudation  or  eruptions, 
unless  the  surface  of  the  skin  becomes  abraded  from  scratching  or 
rubbing. 

Causes. — Digestive  derangements  caused  by  overloading  the  stom- 
ach when  the  animal  is  turned  out  to  graze  in  the  spring,  certain 
feed  constituents,  high  feeding  of  fattening  stock,  functional  de- 
rangement of  the  kidneys,  spinal  and  other  nervous  affections,  are 
the  most  common  sources  of  nettle  rash. 


DISEASES    OF    THE    SKIN.  32 S 

The  disease  consists  in  paralysis  of  the  nerve  ends  that  control  the 
volume  of  the  capillary  vessels  in  certain  areas  of  skin,  thus  permit- 
ting the  vessels  to  expand,  their  contents  in  part  to  exude,  and  thus 
produce  a  soft,  circumscribed  swelling. 

Treatment. — Administer  a  full  dose  of  Epsom  salt.  Give  soft, 
easily'  digested  feed,  and  wash  the  affected  parts  with  a  solution  of 
bicarbonate  of  soda  (common  baking  soda),  8  ounces  to  the  gallon  of 
water  twice  a  day,  or  diluted  glycerin  may  be  applied  to  the  skin. 
If  it  assumes  a  persistent  tendency,  give  a  tablespoonful  of  the 
follovv'ing  powder  in  the  feed  three  times  a  day:  Cream  of  tartar, 
sulphur,  and  nitrate  of  potassium,  equal  parts  by  weight;  mix. 

ECZEMA. 

Eczema  is  a  noncontagious  inflammation  of  the  skin,  characterized 
by  any  or  all  of  the  results  of  inflammation  at  once  or  in  succession, 
such  as  erj^thema,  vesicles,  or  pustules,  accompanied  with  more  or 
less  infiltration  and  itching,  terminating  in  a  watery  discharge,  with 
the  formation  of  crusts  or  in  scaling  off.  The  disease  may  run  an 
acute  course  and  then  disappear,  or  it  may  become  chronic ;  therefore 
two  varieties  are  recognized,  vesicular  (or  pustular)  and  chronic 
eczema. 

Causes. — Eczema  is  not  so  common  among  cattle  as  in  horses  and 
in  dogs,  in  Avhich  it  is  the  most  common  of  all  skin  diseases.  Among 
cattle  it  is  occasionally  observed  under  systems  of  bad  hj'^giene,  filthi- 
ness,  lousiness,  overcrowding,  overfeeding,  excessively  damp  or  too 
warm  stables.  It  is  found  to  develop  now  and  then  in  cattle  that  are 
fed  upon  sour  substances,  distillery  swill,  house  or  garden  garbage, 
etc.  Localized  eczema  may  be  caused  by  irritant  substances  applied 
to  the  skin — turpentine,  ammonia,  the  essential  oils,  mustard,  Span- 
ish-fly ointment,  etc.  Occasionally  an  eruption  with  vesiculation  of 
the  skin  has  been  induced  by  the  excessive  use  of  mercurial  prepara- 
tions for  the  destruction  of  lice.  It  is  evident  that  eczema  may  arise 
from  local  irritation  to  the  skin  or  from  an  autointoxication.  Cattle, 
fed  on  the  refuse  from  potato-starch  factories  develop  a  most  obsti- 
nate and  widespread  eczema,  beginning  on  the  legs. 

Symptoms. — In  accordance  with  the  variety  of  symptoms  during 
the  progress  of  the  disease  we  may  divide  it  into  different  stages  or 
periods:  (1)  Swelling  and  increased  heat  of  the  skin;  the  formation 
of  vesicles,  which  are  circumscribed,  rounded  elevations  of  the  epider- 
mis, varying  in  size  from  a  pinhead  to  a  split  pea,  containing  a  clear, 
watery  fluid;  (2)  exudation  of  a  watery,  glutinous  fluid,  formation 
of  crusts,  and  sometimes  suppuration,  or  the  formation  of  vesicles 
containing  pus '(pustules)  ;  (3)  scaling  off  (desquamation),  with 
redness,  and  thickening  of  the  skin.     From  the  very  beginning  of 


324  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

the  disease  the  animal  commences  to  rub  the  affected  parts;  hence 
the  various  stages  may  not  always  be  easily  recognized,  as  the  rub- 
bing produces  more  or  less  abrasion,  thus  leaving  the  skin  raw — 
sometimes  bleeding.  Neither  do  these  symptoms  always  occur  in 
regular  succession,  for  in  some  cases  the  exudation  is  most  prominent, 
being  very  profuse,  and  serve  to  spread  the  disorder  over  a  large 
surface.  In  other  cases  the  formation  of  incrustations,  or  rawness 
of  the  skin,  is  the  most  striking  feature.  The  disease  may  be  limited 
to  certain  small  areas,  or  it  may  be  diffused  over  the  greater  part  of 
the  body ;  the  vesicles,  or  pustules,  may  be  scattered  in  small  clusters, 
or  a  large  number  run  together.  The  chronic  form  is  really  only  a 
prolongation  of  the  disease,  successive  crops  of  pustules  appearing 
on  various  portions  of  the  body,  frequentl}^  invading  fresh  sections 
of  the  skin,  while  the  older  surfaces  form  scabs,  or  crusis,  upon  the 
raw,  indurated  skin. 

In  old,  standing  cases  the  skin  breaks,  forming  fissures,  espe- 
cially on  portions  of  the  body  that  bend — the  neck  and  limbs.  Thus 
the  disease  may  be  prolonged  indefinitel5\  When  eczema  reaches  its 
latest  period,  either  acute  or  chronic,  desquamation  of  the  affected 
parts  is  the  most  prominent  feature.  The  formation  and  shedding  of 
these  successive  crops  of  scales  constitute  the  character  of  the  disease 
frequently  denominated  psoriasis. 

Treatment. — The  treatment  of  eczema  is  often  anything  but  a  pleas- 
ant task.  There  is  no  one  method  of  treatment  which  always  proves 
successful,  no  matter  how  early  it  is  begun  or  how  small  an  area  is 
involved.  We  must  endeavor  to  remove  the  cause  by  giving  atten- 
tion to  the  general  health  of  the  animal  and  to  its  environment. 
Feeding  should  be  moderate  in  quantity  and  not  too  stimulating  in 
character — green  feed,  bran  mashes,  ground  oats,  clean  hay,  plenty 
of  salt.  If  the  animal  has  been  fed  too  high,  give  an  active  purga- 
tive— Epsom  salt  preferred — once  a  Aveek,  if  necessary,  and  half  an 
ounce  of  acetate  or  nitrate  of  potassium  ma}^  be  given  in  the  feed  twice 
a  day.  If  the  animal  is  in  poor  condition  and  debilitated,  give  a  table- 
spoonful  of  the  following  mixture  in  feed  twice  a  day :  Powdered 
copperas,  gentian,  sulphur,  and  sassafras  bark,  equal  parts  by  weight. 
If  the  animal  is  lousy,  the  parasite  must  be  destroyed  before  the 
eczema  can  be  cured.  The  external  treatment  must  vary  Avith  the 
character  of  the  lesions;  no  irritating  application  is  to  be  made  while 
the  disease  is  in  its  acute  vesicular,  or  pustular,  stage,  and,  in  the 
chronic  stage,  active  stimulants  must  be  used.  Much  washing  is 
harmful,  yet  crusts  and  scales  must  be  removed  in  order  to  obtain 
satisfactory  results  from  the  external  applications.  Both  objects, 
however,  can  be  attained  by  judiciousl}'^  combining  the  curative 
agents  with  such  substances  as  will  at  the  same  time  cleanse  the 
parts. 


DISEASES    OF    THE    SKIN.  325 

In  the  vesicular  stage,  vvlien  the  skin  is  feverish  and  the  epidermis 
peeling  off,  thus  exposing  the  exuding  dermis,  an  application  of 
boric-acid  solution,  2  drams  of  the  acid  to  8  ounces  of  water,  often 
relieves  the  smarting  or  itching,  and  also  served  to  check  the  exuda- 
tion and  dry  the  surface.  If  this  fails  to  have  the  desired  effect 
compound  cresol,  1  ounce  to  2  quarts  of  "water,  sho\dd  be  used  as  a 
wash.  Either  of  these  Avashes  may  be  used  several  times  a  day  until 
incrustation  is  well  established.  Then  compound  cresol,  1  ounce  to 
2  quarts  of  sweet  oil,  or  the  benzoated  oxid  of  zinc  ointment,  giving 
the  affected  surfaces  a  thorough  application  once  a  day,  will  be  effi- 
cacious. When  the  eczema  is  not  the  result  of  an  external  irritant, 
it  takes  usually  from  one  to  two  weeks  to  heal. 

In  chronic  eczema,  when  there  is  a  succession  of  scabs,  or  scales, 
indolent  sores  or  fissures,  the  white  precipitate  ointment,  nitrate  of 
mercury  ointment,  or  blue  ointment,  mixed  with  equal  parts  of  cos- 
moline  or  fresh  lard,  may  be  applied  every  second  da}^,  taking  care  to 
protect  the  parts  so  that  the  animal  can  not  lick  it  off. 

In  some  cases  the  use  of  the  following  mixture  w^ill  do  well :  Oil  of 
tar  one-half  ounce,  glycerin  1  ounce,  alcohol  1  pint.  This  is  to  be 
rubbed  in  after  cleansing  the  parts  with  warm  water  and  soap.  The 
internal  administration  of  arsenic  often  3'ields  excellent  results  in 
chronic  eczema.  Dissolve  1  dram  of  arsenic  and  1  dram  of  carbonate 
of  potassium  in  1  pint  of  boiling  wat^r,  and  give  1  ounce  of  this  twice 
a  day  in  water,  after  feeding.  An  alkali  internally  may  be  of  service. 
As  such,  one  may  give  2  ounces  of  bicarbonate  of  soda  twice  daily. 
Sublimed  sulphur  may  also  be  tried  in  ounce  doses  twice  daily. 

PUSTULES    (IMPETIGO). 

Impetigo  is  an  inflammatory  disease  of  the  skin,  characterized  by 
the  formation  of  distinct  pustules,  about  the  size  of  a  pea  or  a  bean, 
without  itching.  The  pustules  develop  from  the  papular  la3^er  of 
the  skin,  and  contain  a  yellowish-white  pus.  Afer  reaching  maturity 
they  remain  stationary  for  a  few  days,  then  they  disappear  by 
absorption  and  diy  up  into  crusts,  which  later  drop  off,  leaving 
upon  the  skin  a  red  spot  that  soon  disappears.  Occasionally  the 
crusts  remain  firmlj''  adherent  for  a  long  time,  or  they  may  be  raised 
and  loosened  by  the  formation  of  matter  underneath.  The  dry 
crusts  usually'  have  a  brown  or  black  appearance. 

Causes. — Impetigo  affects  sucking  calves,  in  which  the  disease 
appears  upon  the  lips,  nostrils,  and  face.  It  is  attributed  to  some 
irritant  substance  contained  in  the  mother's  milk.  Impetigo  is  also 
witnessed  among  grazing  animals,  regardless  of  age,  and  it  especially 
attacks  animals  with  white  hair  and  skin.  The  mouth,  face,  and 
limbs  become  covered  with  pustules,  which  may  rupture  in  a  few 
hours,  followed  by  rapid  and  successive  incrustations;  the  scabs  fre- 


326  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

quently  coalesce,  covering  a  large  surface;  pus  may  form  under  them, 
and  thus  the  whole  thickness  of  the  skin  become  involved  in  the 
morbid  process.  This  form  of  the  disease  is  attributed  to  the  local 
irritant  properties  of  such  plants  in  the  pasture  as  St.  John's  wort 
{Hyperk'um  perforatum),  smartweed  {Polygonum  hydroinper)^ 
vetches,  honeydew,  etc.  Buckwheat,  at  the  time  the  seeds  become 
ripe,  is  said  to  have  caused  it ;  also  bedding  with  buckwheat  straw. 
Treatment. — Sucking  calves  should  be  removed  from  the  mother, 
and  a  purgative  given  to  the  latter  to  divert  the  poisonous  substance 
secreted  with  the  milk.  When  the  more  formidable  disease  among 
grazing  cattle  appears,  the  pasturagp  should  be  changed  and  the 
affected  parts  of  the  animal  thoroughly  anointed  once  a  day  with 
sweet  oil  containing  2  drams  of  carbolic  acid  to  the  pint.  This  should 
be  continued  until  the  crusts  soften  and  begin  to  drop  off,  then  the 
parts  may  be  cleansed  thoroughly  with  warm  water  and  soap.  Sub- 
sequently the  white  precipitate  ointment  or  carbolized  cosmoline 
should  be  applied  daily  until  the  parts  are  healed. 

PEMPHIGUS    (WATER  BLISTERS). 

This  is  an  inflammatory  disease  of  the  skin,  characterized  by  suc- 
cessive formations  of  rounded,  irregularly  shaped  water  blisters, 
varying  in  size  from  a  pea  to  a  hen's  egg. 

Causes. — Obscure. 

Symptoms. — The  formation  of  a  blister  is  preceded  by  a  conges- 
tion or  swelling  of  the  skin.  Yellowish-colored  water  collects  be- 
neath the  cuticle,  which  raises  the  latter  from  its  bed  in  the  form  of 
a  blister.  The  blisters  appear  in  a  succession  of  crops;  as  soon  as 
one  crop  disappears  another  forms.  They  usually  occur  in  clusters, 
each  one  being  distinct,  or  they  may  coalesce.  Each  crop  usually 
runs  its  course  in  a  week.  The  disease  is  attended  with  itching  or 
burning  sensations  which  cause  the  animal  to  rub.  thereby  fre- 
quently producing  excoriations  and  formation  of  crust  on  the 
affected  region. 

Treatment. — Give  a  tablespoonful  of  the  following-described  mix- 
ture in  feed  twice  a  day:  Saltpeter,  cream  of  tartar,  and  sulphur, 
equal  parts  by  weight.  The  blisters  should  be  opened  as  soon  as 
formed,  to  allow  the  escape  of  the  serum,  followed  by  a  wash  com- 
posed of  chlorid  of  zinc.  1  dram  to  15  ounces  of  water.  When  there 
is  any  formation  of  crusts,  carbolized  cosmoline  should  be  applied. 

FURUNCULUS    (BOILS). 

This  is  an  acute  affection  of  the  skin,  usually  involving  its  whole 
thickness,  characterized  by  the  formation  of  one  or  more  abscesses, 
originating  generally  in  a  sebaceous  gland,  sweat  gland,  or  hair 


DISEASES    OF    THE    SKIN.  327 

follicle.  They  usually  terminate  by  absorption,  or  by  the  formation 
of  a  central  core,  which  sloughs  out,  leaving  a  deep,  round  cavity 
that  soon  heals. 

Causes. — ^Impoverished  state  of  blood,  the  result  of  kidney  dis- 
eases or  of  local  friction  or  contusions. 

Symptoms. — Boils  in  cattle  usually  appear  singly,  not  in  clusters; 
they  may  attain  the  size  of  a  hen's  egg.  The  abscess  begins  as  a 
small  round  nodule,  painful  on  pressure,  gradually  increases  in  size 
until  death  of  the  central  portion  takes  place,  then  the  surface  of  the 
skin  gives  way  to  internal  pressure  and  the  core  is  released  and  ex- 
pelled. Constitutional  symptoms  are  generally  absent,  unless  the 
boils  occur  in  considerable  numbers,  or  by  their  size  involve  a  great 
deal  of  tissue. 

Treatment. — Poulticing  to  ripen  the  abscess.  If  this  can  not  be 
done,  apply  camphorated  oil  two  or  three  times  a  day  until  the  core 
is  formed.  As  soon  as  the  central  or  most  prominent  part  becomes 
soft,  the  abscess  should  be  opened  to  release  the  core.  Then  use  car- 
bolized  cosmoline  once  a  day  until  the  healing  is  completed.  If  the 
animal  is  in  poor  condition,  give  tonics — coj^peras,  gentian,  ginger, 
and  sulphur,  equal  parts  by  weight,  1  tablespoonful  twice  a  day.  If 
the  animal  manifests  a  feverish  condition  of  the  system,  give  half  an 
ounce  of  saltpeter  twice  a  day,  continuing  it  several  days  or  a  week. 

FAULTY  SECRETIONS  AND  ABNORMAL  GROWTHS  OF  THE   SKIN. 

PITYRIASIS    (SEBORRHEA,  DANDRUFF,   OR   SCURF). 

This  is  a  condition  characterized  by  an  excessive  secretion  of  seba- 
ceouh  matter,  forming  upon  the  skin  in  small  crusts  or  scales. 

Causes. — ^It  is  ascribable  to  a  functional  derangement  of  the  seba- 
ceous glands,  usually'  accompanied  with  dryness  and  loss  of  pliancy 
of  the  skin.  The  animal  is  hidebound,  as  is  commonly  termed,  thin 
in  flesh,  inclined  to  rub,  and  very  frequently  lousy.  The  condition  is 
observed  most  often  toward  the  spring  of  the  3'ear.  Animals  that 
are  continually  housed,  and  the  skins  of  which  receive  no  cleaning, 
generally  present  a  coat  filled  with  fine  scales,  composed  of  epi- 
thelium from  the  epidermis  and  dried  sebaceous  matter.  This,  how- 
ever, is  a  physiologicall^ondition  and  compatible  with  perfect  health. 

Symi)to7ns. — Pityriasis  may  affect  the  greater  portion  of  the  body, 
though  usually  only  certain  parts  are  affected — the  ears,  neck,  rump, 
etc.  The  skin  becomes  scurf}'^,  tlie  haiiy  coat  filled  with  branlike 
gray  or  whitish  scales. 

Treatment. — Nutritious  feed,  such  as  oil-cake  meal,  bran,  ground 
oats,  and  clean  hay.  In  the  spring  the  disease  generally  disappears 
after  the  animal  is  turned  out  to  pasture.  When  lice  are  present  they 
should  be  destroyed. 


328  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

ELEPHANTIASIS    (SCLERODERMA). 

This  condition  consists  in  a  chronic  thickening  of  the  skin,  which 
may  effect  one  or  more  limbs  or  involve  the  whole  integument.  It  is 
characterized  by  recurrent  attacks  of  swelling  of  the  skin  and  sub- 
cutaneous areolar  tissue.  After  each  attack  the  affected  parts  remain 
infiltrated  to  a  larger  extent  than  before,  mitil  finally  the  skin  may 
attain  a  thickness  of  an  inch,  becoming  wrinkled  and  fissured.  In 
cattle  this  disease  is  confined  to  hot  climates.  The  predisposing 
cause  is  unknown. 

EDEMA    (ANASARCA    OF  THE   SKIN). 

This  is  a  dropsical  condition  of  the  skin  and  snbcutanetms  areolar 
tissue,  characterized  by  pitting  under  pressure,  the  fingers  leaving  a 
dent  which  remains  a  short  time. 

Causes. — Edema  generally  results  from  a  weakened  state  of  the  sys- 
tem arising  from  previous  disease.  It  wvAy  also  be  dependent  upon 
a  functional  derangement  of  the  kidneys,  upon  weak  circulation,  or 
obstruction  to  the  flow  of  blood  through  the  lungs.  In  debilitated 
animals  and  in  some  animals  highly  infested  with  parasites  there  is 
swelling  of  the  dewlap  or  of  the  fold  of  the  skin  between  the  jaws. 

Symptoms. — Painless  sAvelling  of  a  limb,  udder,  loAA-er  surface  of 
abdomen,  or  lower  jaAv  becomes  apparent.  This  may  increase  in 
dimensions  for  several  days  or  may  attain  its  maximum  in  less  than 
24  hours.  Unless  complicated  with  some  acute  disease  of  a  specific 
character,  there  is  not  much,  if  any,  constitutional  disturbance.  The 
deep  layer  of  the  sldn  is  infiltrated  with  serum,  which  gives  it  the 
characteristic  condition  of  pitting  under  pressure. 

Treatment. — When  the  cause  can  be  ascertained  and  removed  we 
may  expect  to  see  the  edema  disappear.  "^^Tien  no  direct  specific 
cause  can  be  discoA'ered  and  the  animal  is  debilitated,  give  general 
tonic.  If,  on  the  contrary,  it  is  in  good  flesh,  give  a  purgative,  fol- 
lowed by  half  an  ounce  of  acetate  of  potassium  twice  a  da}^  Ex- 
ternal applications  are  useless. 

Edema  may  be  distinguished  from  erysi})elas  or  anthrax  l)y  the 
absence  of  pain  and  fever. 

DERMOID  AND  SEBACEOUS  CYSTS   (WENS). 

A  dermoid  cyst  is  formed  by  an  involution  of  the  skin  with  a 
growth  of  hair  on  the  inner  wall  of  the  sac.  It  may  become  embedded 
deeply  in  the  subcutaneous  tissues  or  may  just  penetrate  the  thickness 
of  the  skin,  where  it  is  movable  and  painless.  They  are  generally 
found  within  the  ear  or  at  its  base,  although  they  may  form  on  any 
part  of  the  body.  Usually  they  have  a  small  opening,  from  which  a 
thick,  cheesy  matter  can  be  squeezed  out.  The  rational  treatment  is 
to  dissect  them  out. 


DISEASES    OP    THE    SKIN.  329 

Sebaceous  cysts  appear  not  unlike  the  former.  They  are  formed 
by  a  clihitation  of  the  hair  foUick^  and  sebaceous  -duct  Avithin  the 
sldn,  and  contain  a  gray  or  yellowish  sebaceous  mass.  The  tumor 
ma}'^  attain  the  size  of  a  cherry  stone  or  a  walnut.  Generally  they 
are  round,  movable,  and  painless,  soft  or  doughy  in  consistency,  and 
covered  with  skin  and  hair.  They  develop  slowly.  The  best  treat- 
ment is  to  dissect  out  the  sac  with  contents  entire. 

VERRUCA    (WARTS). 

Cattle  are  affected  with  tAvo  varieties  of  warts.  One,  the  verruca 
vulgaris,  is  composed  of  a  cluster  of  enlarged  papillae,  covered  with 
a  thickened  epidermis,  the  number  of  papillae  determining  the  breadth 
and  their  length  its  height.  They  are  generally  circular  in  figure, 
slightly  roughened  on  the  surface,  and  spring  from  the  skin  by  a 
broad  base.  Occasionally  large  numbers  of  very  thin,  long,  peduncu- 
lated Avarts  groAv  from  the  skin  of  the  ear,  lips,  about  the  eyes,  and 
vulva.  Another  variety,  the  verruca  acuminata,  sometimes  errone- 
ously denominated  epithelial  cancers,  are  irregularly  shaped  eleva- 
tions, tufted  or  club  shaped,  occasionally  existing  as  thick,  short, 
flesh}"  excrescences,  giving  the  growth  the  appearance  of  granulation 
tissue.  Their  color  is  red  or  purplish,  and  oftentimes  by  friction 
they  become  raw  and  bleeding,  emitting  then  a  very  offensive  odor. 
They  usually  grow  in  clusters  and  their  development  is  rapid. 

Causes. — An  abnormal  nutrition  of  the  skin,  determined  by  in- 
creased energy  of  growth  operating  upon  a  healthy  skin;  at  other 
times,  upon  a  weak  or  impoverished  skin. 

Treatment. — When  the}^  are  small  and  pedunculated,  they  may  be 
snipped  off  with  shears  and  the  stump  touched  with  nitrate  of  silver. 
When  they  are  broad  and  flattened,  they  niaj^  be  dissected  out  and  the 
wound  cauterized  if  necessary.  If  they  are  large  and  very  vascular, 
they  may  be  ligated,  one  by  one,  by  taking  a  strong  cord  and  tying  it 
as  firmly  around  the  base  as  possible.  They  will  then  shrivel,  die, 
and  drop  off.  If  there  is  a  tendency  to  grow  again,  apply  a  red-hot 
iron  or  nitric  acid  with  a  glass  rod.  Very  often  warts  quickly  dis- 
appear if  they  are  kept  soft  b}^  daily  applicatiojis  of  sweet  or 
olive  oil. 

KELIS. 

Kelis  is  an  irregularW  shaped  flat  tumor  of  the  skin,  resulting 
from  hypertrophy — increased  growth  of  the  fibrous  tissue  of  the 
cqrium,  producing  absorption  of  the  papillary  layer. 

Causes. — It  may  arise  spontaneously  or  follow  a  scar  after  an 
injury. 

Symptoms:. — Kelis  generally  appears  below  the  knee  or  hock,  and 
may  occur  singly  or  in  numbers.    There  are  no  constitutional  sj^mp- 


330  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

toms.  Its  gro'^N'th  is  very  slow  and  seldom  causes  any  inconvenience. 
It  appears  as  a  fattened,  irregular,  or  spreading  growth  within  the 
substance  of  the  skin,  is  hard  to  the  touch,  and  is  especially  charac- 
terized by  divergent  branches  or  roots,  resembling  the  claws  of  a 
crab:  hence  the  name.  Occasionally  some  part  of  it  may  soften  and 
result  in  an  abscess.  It  may  grow  several  inches  in  length  and  en- 
circle the  whole  limb. 

Treatment: — So  long  as  it  causes  the  animal  no  inconvenience  it  is 
best  not  to  meddle  with  it :  when  it  does  the  animal  ought  to  be  fat- 
tened for  beef,  the  meat  being  perfectly  ha  unless  to  the  consumer. 

PARASITIC  DISEASES  OF  THE  SKIN. 

RINGWORM    (TINEA  TONSURANS  AND  TINEA  FAVOSA). 

Ringworm  is  an  affection  of  the  skin,  caused  by  a  vegetable  para- 
site. 

The  form  known  as  tinea  tonsurans  is  produced  by  the  presence 
of  a  minute  or  microscopic  fungus — the  Trichophyton  tons'urcms^ 
wiiioii  affects  the  hair  and  the  epidermic  layer  of  the  skin,  and  is 
highly  contagious,  being  readily  transmitted  from  one  animal  to 
another.  This  fungus  consists  of  spores  and  filaments.  The  spores, 
being  the  most  numerous,  are  round,  nucleated,  and  seldom  vary 
much  in  size.  They  are  very  abundant  in  the  hair  follicle.  The  fila- 
ments are  articulated,  waving,  and  contain  granules.  This  disease  is 
productive  of  changes  in  the  root  and  shaft  of  the  hair,  rendering  it 
brittle  and  easily  broken  off. 

This  disease  becomes  manifest  by  the  formation  of  circular  patches 
on  the  skin,  which  soon  becomes  denuded  of  hair.  The  cuticular  layer 
of  the  skin  in  slightly  inflamed,  and  vesication  with  exudation 
occurs,  followed  by  the  formation  of  scaly,  brittle  crusts.  The 
patches  appear  silvery  gray  when  incrusted.  and  are  mostly  confined 
to  the  head  and  neck.  It  is  a  common  disease  among  young  cattle 
in  the  winter  and  spring.  Very  early  in  the  development  of  the 
patches  the  hairs  split,  twist,  and  break  off  close  to  the  skin.  This 
disease  is  attended  with  more  or  less  itching.  It  is  communicable 
to  man. 

Tinea  favosa  comes  from  another  fungus,  the  Achorioii  schdnlemti. 
This  enters  the  hair  follicle  and  involves  the  cuticle  surrounding  it, 
small  crusts  form  which  increase  in  diameter  and  thickness  and  then 
become  elevated  at  their  margin,  forming  a  cup-shaped  scab,  the 
favus  cup,  which  gives  the  disease  its  distinctive  character.  The 
number  of  these  cups  varies  from  a  few  to  many  hundreds.  The 
hairs  involved  become  brittle  and  broken,  fall  off  with  the  crusts, 
leaving  small  bald  patches.  The  crusts  are  of  a  pale  or  sulphur- 
yellow  color  at  first ;  as  they  grow  older  they  turn  darker,  or  to  a 


DISEASES   OF    THE    SKIN.  331 

brown  color.  This  form  of  ringworm  has  a  peculiar  odor,  resembling 
that  of  mice  or  musty  straw.  It  is  occasionally  commimicatocl  to 
cattle  by  man,  mice,  cats,  etc.,  all  being  subject  to  it. 

Treatment. — Eemove  all  crusts  by  washing  with  soap  and  water, 
then  apply  acetic  acid,  sulphur  ointment,  tincture  of  iodin  or  nitrate 
of  mercury  ointment  once  a  day.  Cleanse  the  stable  and  whitewash 
it  to  destroy  the  spores  scattered  by  the  crusts. 

OTHER  PARASITES  AND  PARASITIC  DISEASES  OF  THE   SKIN. 

For  discussion  of  mange,  itch,  scab,  lousiness,  warbles  (grub  in 
the  skin),  buffalo  gnats,  hornfly  {Hcematohia  serrata),  ticks,  flies, 
etc.,  see  the  chapter  on  "  The  animal  parasites  of  cattle,"  page  510. 

WOUNDS  OF  THE  SKIN. 

SNAKE  BITES    AND  VENOMOUS  STINGS. 

[See  discussion  of  these  subjects  in  chapter  on  "  Poisons  and  poisoning."] 
BURNS    AND  SCALDS. 

This  is  a  rare  accident  among  cattle,  yet  in  cases  of  fire  it  may 
occur.  The  application  of  heat,  whether  dry  or  moist,  unless  suffi- 
cient instantly  to  destroy  the  life  of  a  part,  is  always  followed  by 
the  development  of  vesicles  or  blisters,  which  contain  a  thin,  watery 
fluid.  The  blisters  may  be  isolated  and  not  very  large,  or  one  blister 
may  cover  a  very  large  surface.  When  the  burn  is  very  severe  the 
skin  may  be  wholly  devitalized,  or  the  injury  may  extend  into  the 
deeper  structures  of  the  skin.  Then  sloughs  will  occur,  followed 
by  a  contraction  of  the  parts  in  healing;  if  on  a  limb,  this  may  render 
the  animal  stiff.  When  the  burn  or  scald  has  been  a  severe  one,  the 
resulting  pain  is  great  and  the  constitutional  disturbance  very 
marked. 

Treatm£nt. — For  a  superficial  burn  use  a  mixture  of  equal  parts  of 
limewater  and  linseed  oil,  or  common  white  paint — white  lead  ground 
in  oil — to  exclude  the  atmosphere  and  protect  the  inflamed  skin. 
If  it  is  not  convenient  to  get  anything  else,  chimney  soot,  flour,  or 
starch  may  be  spread  on  the  wound  (dry),  and  covered  with  cotton 
batting  and  light  bandage.  The  blisters  should  be  opened  to  let  the 
contained  fluid  escape,  but  do  not  pull  off  the  thin  cuticle  which  has 
been  raised  bj^  the  blister.  When  the  burn  is  extensive  and  deep 
sloughing  occurs,  the  parts  should  be  treated,  like  other  deep  wounds, 
by  poulticing,  astringent  washes,  etc.  When  the  sj'stem  has  sus- 
tained much  shock,  the  animal  may  require  internal  stimulants, 
such  as  4  ounces  of  whisky  or  2  drams  of  carbonate  of  ammonia 
every  hour  until  it  rallies.  When  the  pain  is  very  great,  hypo- 
dermic injections  of  G  grains  of  morphia  may  be  administered  every 
six  hours. 


332  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

Frostbite  on  any  portion  of  the  l)ody  may  be  treated  as  recom- 
mended in  the  article  on  diseases  of  the  ears. 

EMPHYSEMA    (AIR  OR  GAS  UNDER  THE   SKIN). 

Emphysema  of  the  skin  is  not  a  true  disease  of  the  skin,  but  it  is 
mentioned  as  a  pathological  condition.  It  is  characterized  by  a 
distention  of  the  skin  with  air  or  gas  contained  in  the  snbcutaneons 
areolar  tissue.  It  may  depend  npon  a  septic  condition  of  the  blood, 
as  in  anthrax  or  blackleg,  or  air  may  be  forced  under  the  skin  about 
the  head,  neck,  and  shoulders,  as  a  result  of  rupture  of  the  windpipe- 
It  occurs  in  the  region  of  the  chest  and  shoulders  from  penetrating 
wounds  of  the  chest  and  lung,  and  occasionally  follows  puncture  of 
the  rumen  when  the  escaping  gas  is  retained  under  the  skin. 

Symptoms. — The  skin  is  enormously  distended  over  a  greater  or 
less  portion  of  the  bodj'^;  thus  any  region  of  the  body  may  lose  its 
natural  contour  and  appear  like  a  monstrosity.  There  is  a  peculiar 
crackling  beneath  the  skin  when  the  hand  is  passed  over  it,  and  on 
tapping  it  with  the  fingers  a  resonant,  drumlike  sound  is  elicited. 

Treattnent. — Puncture  the  distended  skin  with  a  clean,  broad- 
bladed  knife  and  press  the  air  out.  Further  treatment  must  be 
directed  with  a  view  to  the  removal  of  the  cause. 


DISEASES  OF  THE  FOOT. 

By  M.  R.  TitUMBowEK,  D.  V.   S. 
[Revised  by  Leonard  Pearson,  13.  S.,  'N'.  M.  D.] 

LAMINITIS  (FOUNDER). 

Laminitis  denotes  an  active  inflammation  of  the  sensitive  struc- 
tures within  the  wall  of  the  hoof,  which  in  severe  cases  may  result 
in  suppuration  and  the  loss  of  one  or  more  claws.  Owing  to  the  sim- 
plicity of  the  structure  of  the  foot  of  an  ox  compared  with  that  of 
the  horse,  this  disease  is  rarely  seen  in  an  acute  form,  but  a  mild 
form,  commonly  called  "  foot  soreness,"  is  not  of  infrequent  occur- 
rence. 

Causes. — Laminitis  in  cattle  may  be  caused  by  overfeeding,  over- 
heating, continued  standing  without  exercise  on  a  stone  or  cement 
floor  without  sufficient  bedding,  or  by  driving  long  distances  over 
rough  or  stony  soil. 

Symptoins. — An  unwillingness  to  maintain  the  standing  position; 
the  animal  persists  in  lying  down.  The  feet  will  be  found  unnatu- 
rally hot,  and  frequently  some  swelling  may  be  noticed  above  the 
hoof.  Pressure  upon  the  hoof  with  blacksmith's  hoof  pincers  causes 
pain  and  flinching.  The  general  body  temperature  is  increased  and 
the  breathing  accelerated.  Ordinarily  the  animal  eats  and  drinks 
as  usual.  When  it  is  made  to  move  excessive  tenderness  of  the  feet 
becomes  manifest,  as  is  shown  by  reluctance  to  walk  and  bj^  the  very 
short,  hesitating  step.  Founder  affects  the  hind  as  well  as  the  fore 
feet,  although  the  front  feet  are  more  often  exposed. 

Treatment. — Cold  packs  to  the  feet,  or  if  the  animal  can  be  made 
to  stand  in  a  stream  of  water,  having  a  soft  bottom,  the  inflammation 
is  often  relieved  without  the  necessity  of  any  additional  treatment. 
It  may  be  well,  however,  to  give  a  full  dose  of  Epsom  salt,  1  to  \\ 
pounds,  followed  by  half-ounce  doses  of  saltpeter  two  or  three  times 
a  day. 

SORENESS  (FOOT  SORENESS). 

Cattle  that  have  been  stabled  or  pastured  on  soft  gromid  and  are 
driven  over  stony  roads  soon  wear  down  the  soles  of  their  feet  and 
become  lame  from  foot  soreness.  Draft  oxen,  for  this  reason,  require 
to  be  shod.  When  the  soreness  is  excessive  it  may  develop  into  an 
active  inflammation  of  all  the  sensitive  structures  of  the  foot — • 
laminitis,  or  into  a  local  bruise  commonly  called  a  "  corn." 

333 


334  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

Treatment. — Rest,  poulticing  the  feet  with  moistened  chiy,  fol- 
lowed by  astringent  washes — strong  white-oak  bark  or  alum  water. 

If  the  pain  and  heat  last  several  days,  it  is  probable  that  pus  has 
formed  beneath  the  wall  of  the  hoof.  In  this  case  it  is  necessary 
to  cut  through  the  wall,  usualh^  at  the  most  prominent  part  of  the 
sole,  to  allow  the  accumulation  to  drain  out.  The  animal  should 
then  stand  for  several  hours  daily  in  a  tub  containing  creolin 
solution  (3  per  cent).  When  not  in  the  creolin  solution  the  foot 
should  be  dressed  with  pine  tar  and  cotton  and  bandaged  with 
bagging. 

LOSS  OF  HOOF. 

Cattle  sometimes  become  fastened  between  planks  or  otherwise 
and  pull  off  the  wall  of  one  or  both  claws  in  the  effort  to  extricate 
themselves.  The  claws  of  one  or  more  feet  may  be  shed  as  the  result 
of  acute  laminitis. 

Treatment. — Wash  the  bleeding  surface  with  an  antiseptic  and 
then  with  an  astringent,  such  as  a  weak  solution  of  alum,  then  apply  a 
thick  coating  of  pine  tar;  cover  this  with  a  layer  of  oalmm  or  ab- 
sorbent cotton;  apply  another  coat  of  tar  over  this,  and  then  bandage 
closely  and  firmly.  This  may  remain  without  disturbance  until  the 
new  growing  wall  becomes  sufficienth'  strong  to  sustain  the  pressure 
and  weight  of  the  animal.  If,  however,  at  any  time  oozing  or  bad 
smell  indicate  that  pus  is  forming  under  this  dressing,  the  bandage 
should  be  removed  and  the  suppurating  surface  freshly  cleaned  and 
dressed.  This  may  have  to  be  repeated  every  few  days  and  should 
be  continued  so  long  as  there  is  an}'  pus  formation.  If  the  loss 
of  hoof  is  owing  to  suppurative  laminitis,  the  parts  denuded  of  the 
horny  covering  must  be  thoroughly  cleansed  and  disinfected  with 
carbolic  acid,  lysol,  or  other  antiseptic.  Then  apply  a  moderately 
thick  layer  of  absorbent  cotton  and  over  this  apply  the  tar  and 
bandage.  After  this  the  antiseptic  solution  may  be  poured  in  daily 
at  the  top  of  the  dressing.  It  will  thus  soak  in  and  saturate  the 
dressing  and  inflamed  tissue.  It  may  become  necessary  to  remove 
all  the  dressing  at  daily  or  longer  intervals  to  give  the  parts  a  fresh 
cleaning,  and  then  to  reapplv  it. 

FOUL  IN  FOOT  (FOOT  ROT). 

A  variety  of  causes  may  produce  inflammation  of  the  foot  between 
tlie  claws  or  toes.  It  may  be  on  account  of  overgrowth  of  the  claws 
and  inward  pressure,  as  in  ingrowing  nail  of  man.  or  it  may  be 
caused  by  the  irritation  of  stable  filth  by  impaction  and  hardening  of 
soil  between  the  claws,  or  by  other  foreign  substances  becoming 
wedged  in,  causing  inflammation  and  softening  or  ulceration  of  the 
skin  in  the  interdigital  space.    Under  some  conditions  several  cattle 


DISEASES    OF    THE    FOOT.  '  335 

in  the  same  herd  become  affected,  which  has  led  some  to  think  that 
the  disease  may  be  contagious.  Occurrences  have  been  reported  in 
which  foot  rot  of  cattle  has  appeared  within  a  short  time  among 
a  large  proportion  of  the  cattle  in  a  farming  district.  This  disease 
is  most  frequently  seen  in  the  hind  feet,  though  all  four  feet  may 
become  affected. 

Symptoms. — The  animal  is  observed  to  limp.  On  examination  of 
the  foot  Ave  discover  heat  and  sw^elling  above  the  hoof  and  of  the 
soft  parts  between  the  claws  AA'hich  frequently  spreads  the  claws  apart 
to  a  considerable  extent,  or  the  inflammation  may  have  advanced  to 
softening  and  sloughing  of  the  interdigital  membrane.  If  the  disease 
is  neglected  at  this  stage,  deep  abscesses  may  form  and  the  pus  bur- 
row under  the  horny  wall,  or  the  joint  Avithin  the  hoof  may  become 
inflamed  and  the  articular  attachments  destroyed,  in  which  case  the 
treatment  will  be  difficult  and  recovery  Avill  be  very  tedious. 

Treatment. — In  the  earlier  stages  of  the  disease,  before  pus  burrows 
beneath  the  horn,  a  thorough  cleansing  and  an  application  of  a  car- 
bolic-acid solution — 1  ounce  to  a  pint  of  water — clean  stabling,  and 
laxative  food  Avill  usually  remedy  the  evil.  Cresol  compound  is  an 
excellent  reuiedy  at  this  stage.  It  should  be  applied,  in  its  pure  or 
undiluted  state,  to  the  suppurating  and  putrefying  tissue  between 
the  claAvs.  It  is  best  applied  by  means  of  a  cotton  swab  on  a  thin 
stick.  Care  must  be  taken  to  keep  it  from  contact  w'ith  the  skin 
about  the  coronary  band  or  heels.  (Jf  deep  sloughing  has  taken  place 
the  carbolic  solution  should  be  used,  and  a  wad  of  oakum  or  cot- 
ton smeared  with  pine  tar  should  be  secured  firmly  in  the  cleft.  This 
can  be  done  by  taking  a  strip  of  strong  cloth,  2  inches  wide,  passing 
the  middle  betAveen  the  claAvs,  then  tying  the  ends  after  winding  them 
in  opposite  directions  aboA^e  the  hoof.  Sometimes  Avarm  poulticing 
Avith  flaxseed  meal  or  bran  is  necessary  to  relieA'e  excessiA^e  fever  and 
pain.  If  the  pus  burroAvs  under  the  horn,  its  channel  must  be  fol- 
loAA'ed  by  paring  aAA'ay  the  horn  until  the  bottom  is  reached.  The 
aftertreatment  is  the  same  as  that  already  recommended.  If  the 
joint  becomes  diseased  an  amputation  of  that  toe  is  the  quickest  and 
surest  method  to  relieA^e  the  suffering  of  the  animal,  and  offers  the 
best  chance  for  an  early  recovery. 

ULCERATION  OF  THE  HEEL. 

Occasionally  we  find  ulcers  at  the  junction  of  the  hair  with  the 
hoof  at  the  heel,  wdiich  present  an  elevated,  raw,  or  ragged  surface, 
and  cause  considerable  lameness.  This  is  generally  caused  by  a  bruise 
of  the  fibrous  cushion  of  the  back  part  of  the  foot.  Subsequent 
sloughing  or  necrosis  may  occur,  or  pus  may  form  deep  within  the 
wall  and  gain  an  exit  at  the  margin  of  the  heel.  Sometimes,  from 
no  visible  cause,  large  pieces  of  skin  slough  from  the  heel  and  pastern. 


336  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

This  condition  is  caused  by  an  infection  witli  certain  microorganisms 
(streptococci,  necrosis  bacilli)  and  may  be  contagions. 

Treatment. — If  there  is  a  deep  opening,  inject  carbolic  solution  once 
a  day  until  it  closes.  If  the  ulcer  is  only  superficial,  AAash  with  car- 
bolic solution  and  apph^  a  mixture  of  equal  parts  of  blue  A'itriol  and 
alum  in  dry  powder. 

FISSURE   OF  THE  WALL   (SPLIT  HOOF). 

This  is  rarelj^  seen  among  cattle.  It  may  occur  in  weak  walls,  in 
heavily-bodied  cattle,  caused  by  stepping  on  an  uneven  surface,  espe- 
cially when  the  point  of  the  toe  is  grown  out  long.  One  may  find  the 
point  of  the  toe  broken  and  the  wall  split  almost  up  to  the  hair. 

Treatment. — The  divided  sections  may  be  brought  into  approxima- 
tion and  held  in  place  by  drilling  a  small  hole  from  one  side  into  and 
through  the  other,  commencing  half  an  inch  back  of  the  fissure  on 
each  side;  then  drive  a  light  horseshoe  nail  through  the  hole  and 
clinch  it.    Pare  the  injured  claw^  as  short  as  it  will  bear. 

INTERDIGITAL  FIBROMA. 

•  Hard,  nodular,  fibrous  tumors  sometimes  grow  in  the  cleft  of  the 
foot,  and  cause  inconvenience,  lameness,  absorption,  or  idceration  of 
the  contiguous  parts. 

Treatment. — They  should  be  dissected  out  and  the  wound  dressed 
with  carbolic-acid  lotion  and  pine  tar  once  a  day  until  healing  is 
completed. 

DEFORMITIES. 

Deformities  in  the  feet  of  cattle  usualh^  consist  in  overgrowth  of 
horn,,  generally  from  Avant  of  wear  in  animals  which  are  stabled. 
The  hoof  may  turn  inward,  outward,  or  upward,  and  may  give  rise  to 
lameness,  inability  to  walk,  foul  foot,  etc.  Bulls  which  are  continu- 
ally stabled  and  dairy  cows  very  frequently  have  misshapen  feet  from 
want  of  an  occasional  trimming,  and  this  deformity  may  eventually 
lead  to  permanent  injury. 

Treatment. — Cut  the  superabundant  growth  of  horn  down  with 
saw,  knife,  or  rasp,  until  the  foot  assumes  its  natural  form. 

PRICKS  AND  WOUNDS. 

If  an  animal  suffers  with  a  penetrating  wound  from  prick  of  fork 
or  nail,  the  orifice  of  the  wound  should  be  enlarged  to  permit  a  free 
discharge  of  pus ;  then  the  foot  should  be  soaked  in  a  cresol  compound 
solution  (3  per  cent)  in  a  tub,  or  a  flaxseed  poultice  applied,  changing 
it  three  times  a  day  until  the  fever  has  abated.  The  foot  should  be 
kept  bandaged  and  dressed  w^ith  pine  tar  and  oakmn;  the  animal 


DISEASES    OF    THE    FOOT.  337 

must  also  be  kept  on  a  clean  floor  until  the  wound  is  closed  and  all  or 
nearly  all  lameness  has  disappeared. 

If  an  animal  is  cut  in  the  foot  with  barbed  wire,  piece  of  glass,  or 
any  other  substance,  the  wound,  after  proper  cleansing,  should  be 
dressed  with  carbolic-acid  solution,  1  ounce  of  the  acid  to  20  of 
water.  If  any  uneven  edges  of  horn,  skin,  or  lacerated  flesh  project, 
trim  them  ofi^,  and  in  all  cases  when  it  can  be  done  a  tarred  bandage 
should  be  applied.  This  will  serve  to  sustain  the  cut  surfaces  in 
their  place,  exclude  dirt,  and  protect  against  flies,  maggots,  etc. 

When  the  wound  has  extended  into  a  joint,  surgical  treatment, 
which  will  require  the  services  of  an  educated  veterinarian,  may 
be  necessary. 

Occasionally  an  animal  gets  caught  by  the  foot  in  a  crevice  and 
sustains  severe  bruising,  wrenching,  or  fracture  of  some  part  of  the 
foot.  In  such  cases  cold-water  packs  to  the  injured  member  are  of 
service  until  the  fever  and  swelling  disappear.  Afterwards  the 
animal  should  rest  until  the  usefulness  of  the  foot  is  restored.  Some- 
times such  an  accident,  causing  fracture,  renders  necessary  plaster 
bandages  or  amputation. 
33071°— 16 22 


DISEASES  OF  THE  EYE  AND  ITS  APPENDAGES. 

By  M.  R.  Trumbowek,  D.  V.  S. 
[Revised  by  Leonard  Pearson,  B.  S.,  V.  M.  D.] 

DESCRIPTION. 

For  the  sake  of  gaining  a  clear  comprehension  of  the  diseases  of 
the  eye  it  becomes  necessary  to  review  the  anatomy  of  this  important 
organ.  The  essential  organ  of  vision,  or  globe  of  the  eye,  will  be  first 
described,  then  its  receptacle  or  orbital  cavity,  the  muscles  that  move 
it,  the  protective  membranes,  or  eyelids,  the  membrana  nictitans,  or 
accessory  eyelids,  and,  lastly,  the  lachrymal  apparatus. 

The  globe  or  ball  of  the  eye  is  almost  spherical  in  form.  On 
closer  inspection,  however,  it  appears  to  be  made  up  of  two  com- 
bined portions  from  spheres  of  different  sizes.  The  posterior  portion, 
forming  about  five-sixths  of  the  ball,  is  a  sphere  of  comparatively 
lai'ge  size  with  a  small  segment  cut  off  it  in  front,  and  at  this  point 
there  is  applied  to  it  the  anterior  portion,  which,  being  a  segment  of 
a  smaller  sphere,  projects  at  the  front  of  the  ball  with  a  greater  con- 
vexity than  the  posterior  portion. 

The  eyeball  consists  of  concentrically  arranged  coats  and  of  re- 
fracting media  inclosed  in  them.  The  coats  are  three  in  number, 
namely,  (1)  an  external  protective  tunic  made  up  of  the  sclerotic 
and  cornea  ;  (2)  a  middle  vascular  and  pigmentary  tunic,  the  choroid ; 
(3)  an  internal  nervous  layer,  the  retina.  The  sclerotic  is  the  white, 
opaque  part  of  the  outer  tunic,  of  which  it  forms  about  the  posterior 
five-sixths,  being  coextensi>'e  with  the  larger  sphere  already  men- 
tioned. The  cornea  forms  the  remaining  one-sixth  of  the  outer  tunic, 
being  coextensive  with  the  segment  of  the  smaller  sphere.  It  is  dis- 
tinguished from  the  sclerotic  by  being  colorless  and  transparent.  The 
choroid  coat  will  be  recognized  as  the  black  layer  lying  subjacent 
to  the  sclerotic.  It  does  not  line  the  cornea,  but  terminates  behind 
the  line  of  junction  of  that  coat  with  the  sclerotic  by  a  thickened 
edge — the  ciliary  processes.  At  the  line  of  junction  of  the  sclerotic 
and  cornea  the  iris  passes  across  the  interior  of  the  eye.  This  (which 
may  be  viewed  as  a  dependency  of  the  choroid)  is  a  nniscular  curtain 
perforated  by  an  apeture  termed  the  pupil.  The  retina  will  be 
recognized  as  a  delicate,  glassy  layer,  lining  the  greater  part  of  the 
choroid. 
338 


DISEASES    OF    THE    EYE.  339 

The  refracting  media  of  the  eye  are  three  in  number,  namely  (1) 
the  aqueous  humor,  a  watery  fluid  inclosed  in  a  chamber  behind  the 
cornea;  (2)  the  crystalline  lens  and  its  capsule,  a  transparent,  soft 
solid  of  a  biconvex  form,  and  placed  behind  the  iris;  (3)  the  vitreous 
humor,  a  transparent  material  with  a  consistence  like  thin  jelly,  and 
occupying  as  much  of  the  interior  of  the  eye  as  is  subjacent  to  the 
choroid. 

The  sclerotic  is  a  strong,  opaque,  fibrous  membrane,  which,  in  a 
great  measure,  maintains  the  form  of  the  eyeball  and  protects  the 
more  delicate  structures  within  it.  Its  interior  portion,  which  is 
covered  by  the  ocular  conjunctiva,  is  commonly  known  as  the  "  white 
of  the  eye."  In  form  it  is  bell-shaped,  and  the  optic  nerve  pierces  it 
behind  like  a  handle,  the  perforation  being  a  little  to  its  inner  side. 
In  front,  the  rim  of  the  bell  becomes  continuous  with  the  cornea. 
The  outer  surface  of  the  membrane  receives  the  insertion  of  the  mus- 
cles of  the  eyeball.  The  coat  is  thickest  over  the  posterior  part  of 
the  eyeball,  and  is  thinnest  a  little  behind  its  junction  with  the 
cornea. 

The  cornea  is  the  anterior  transparent  portion  of  the  outer  coat  of 
the  eyeball.  It  may  be  viewed  as  a  part  of  the  sclerotic  specially 
modified  to  permit  the  passage  of  light  into  the  interior  of  the  eye. 
Its  outline  is  elliptical,  nearly  circular,  and  its  greatest  diameter  is 
transvei^se.  At  its  periphery  it  joins  the  sclerotic  by  continuity  of 
tissue,  and  as  the  edge  of  the  cornea  is  slightly  beveled  and  has  the 
fibrous  sclerotic  carried  for  a  little  distance  forward  on  its  outward 
surface,  the  cornea  is  generally  said  to  be  fitted  into  the  sclerotic  like 
a  watch  glass  into  its  rim.  The  venous  canal  of  Schlemm  runs  cir- 
cularly around  the  eyeball  at  the  line  of  junction  of  the  sclerotic  and 
cornea.  The  anterior  surface  of  the  cornea  is  exquisitely  smooth, 
and  is  kept  moist  by  the  lacrimal  secretions.  Its  posterior  surface 
forms  the  anterior  boundary  of  the  chamber  in  which  the  aqueous 
humor  is  contained.  The  cornea  is  of  uniform  thickness  and  is  of 
a  dense,  almost  horny,  consistence.  Save  a  few  capillary  loops  of 
blood  vessels  at  its  margin  the  cornea  is  without  vessels.  Its  struct- 
ure is  comprised  of  five  distinct  layers. 

The  aqueous  humor  occupies  a  chamber  which  is  bounded  in  front 
by  the  posterior  surface  of  the  cornea  and  behind  by  the  capsule  and 
suspensory  ligament  of  the  lens  and  by  the  ends  of  the  ciliary  proc- 
esses. It  is  across  this  chamber  that  the  iris  extends.  The  aqueous 
humor  is  composed  of  water,  with  a  small  proportion  of  common  salt 
in  solution. 

The  iris  is  a  muscular,  pigmented  curtain  extending  across  the  inte- 
rior of  the  eye  and  having  about  its  center  an  aperture  termed  the 
pupil.  By  variations  in  the  size  of  this  aperture  the  amount  of  light 
transmitted  to  the  retina  is  regulated.     It  varies  somewhat  in  color, 


340  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

but  is  most  frequently  of  a  yellowish-brown  tint.  Its  anterior  face  is 
bathed  by  the  aqueous  humor.  The  greater  part  of  the  posterior  sur- 
face is  in  contact  with  the  capsule  of  the  lens  and  glides  on  it  during 
the  movements  of  the  curtain.  The  circumferential  border  is  at- 
tached Avithin  the  junction  of  the  sclerotic  cornea.  The  inner  border 
circumscribes  the  pupil,  which  varies  in  outline  according  to  its  size. 
When  much  contracted  the  pupil  is  a  very  elongated  ellipse,  the  long 
axis  of  which  is  in  the  line  joining  the  nasal  and  temporal  angles  of 
the  eyelids.  It  contains  muscular  tissue,  which,  by  contracting  or 
relaxing,  lessens  or  dilates  the  pupillary  opening. 

The  choroid  coat  is  a  bell-shaped,  dark  membrane  which  lines  the 
sclerotic.  Its  outer  surface  has  a  shaggy  appearance,  caused  by  the 
tunica  fusca,  which  unites  the  two  coats.  Between  the  two  the  ciliary 
vessels  and  nerves  pass  forward.  Behind  it  is  pierced  by  the  optic 
nerve;  in  front  it  is  continued  as  the  ciliary  processes,  which  form, 
as  it  were,  the  rim  of  the  bell.  The  ciliary  processes  form  a  fringe 
around  the  slightly  inverted  rim  of  the  choroid. 

The  retina  is  the  most  delicate  of  the  coats  of  the  eyeball.  It  is 
formed  by  the  expansion  of  the  optic  nerve  on  the  inner  surface  of 
the  choroid,  and,  like  that  coat,  it  is  bell-shaped.  Its  inner  surface 
is  molded  on  the  vitreous  humor.  The  nervous  structures  of  the 
retina  terminate  at  a  wavy  line,  the  ora  serrata,  behind  the  ciliary 
processes.  Ten  distinct  layers  are  described  as  composing  the  thick- 
ness of  the  retina. 

The  lens  is  situated  behind  the  pupil  and  is  contained  within  a 
capsule  of  its  own. 

The  capsule  is  a  close-fitting,  firm,  transparent  membrane.  The 
anterior  surface  forms  the  posterior  boundary  of  the  cavity  contain- 
ing the  aqueous  humor,  and  the  iris  in  its  movement  glides  on  it. 
The  posterior  surface  is  in  contact  with  the  vitreous  humor. 

The  vitreous  humor  occupies  four-fifths  of  the  interior  of  the  eye- 
ball. It  is  globular  in  form,  with  a  depression  in  front  for  the  lodg- 
ment of  the  lens.  It  is  colorless,  transparent,  and  of  a  consistency 
like  thin  jelly.  It  is  enveloped  by  a  delicate  capsule — ^the  hyaloid 
membrane — which  is  connected  in  front  with  the  suspensory  ligament 
of  the  lens,  and  ends  by  joining  the  capsule  behind  the  lens.     ' 

The  orbital  cavity,  at  the  side  of  the  head,  is  circumscribed  by  a 
bony  margin ;  posteriorly,  however,  there  are  no  bony  Avails,  and  the 
cavity  is  often  confounded  Avith  the  depression  aboA'e  and  behind  the 
orbit — the  temporal  fossa.  A  fibrous  membrane  completes  this  cavity 
and  keeps  it  distinct  from  temporal  fossa.  This  membrane — the 
ocular  sheath  or  periorbita — is  attached  posteriorly  around  the  open- 
ing in  the  back  part  of  the  orbital  cavity  (the  orbital  hiatus)  and 
anteriorly  to  its  inner  face;  then  it  becomes  prolonged  beyond  the 


DISEASES    OF    THE    EYE.  341 

margin  to  form  the  fibrous  membrane  of  the  eyelids.  When  complete 
the  orbital  cavity  has  the  form  of  a  regular  hollow  cone,  open  at 
its  base  and  closed  at  the  apex.  The  opening  of  this  cone  is  directed 
forward,  downward,  and  outward.  Independently  of  the  globe  of 
the  eye,  this  cavity  lodges  the  muscles  that  move  it,  the  membrana 
nictitans,  and  the  lacrimal  gland. 

The  muscles  of  the  eye  are  seven  in  number — one  retractor,  four 
straight,  and  two  oblique.  The  retractor  oculi  envelops  the  optic 
nerve  between  the  brain  and  the  ball  of  the  eye  and  becomes  attached 
upon  the  external  face  of  the  sclerotic  tunic.  When  this  muscle  con- 
tracts, it  draws  the  globe  back  into  the  orbit,  away  from  the  light. 
The  superior,  inferior,  external,  and  internal  recti  or  straight  muscles 
are  attached  to  the  back  part  of  the  orbital  sheath  and  spread  for- 
ward in  four  bundles  over  the  globe  of  the  eye,  where  they  are  in- 
serted by  a  fibrous  expansion  into  the  sclerotic  at  the  margin  of  the 
cornea.  When  they  act  singly,  they  turn  the  globe  either  upward, 
downward,  inward,  or  outward.  The  great  oblique,  by  its  action, 
pivots  the  eye  inward  and  upward  in  the  orbit.  The  small  oblique 
turns  the  eye  outward  and  downward. 

The  eyelids  are  two  movable  curtains,  superior  and  inferior,  which 
cover  and  protect  the  eye  in  front.  They  are  attached  to  the  circum- 
ference of  the  orbit  and  have  a  convex  external  face  formed  by  the 
skin  and  a  concave  internal  face  molded  on  the  anterior  surface  of 
the  eye  and  are  lined  by  the  conjunctiva,  which  is  reflected  above  and 
below  on  the  eyeball.  The  border  of  each  lid  is  slightly  beveled  on 
the  inner  side  and  shows  the  openings  of  the  Meibomian  glands. 
These  glands  secrete  an  unctuous  fluid,  which  is  thrown  out  on  the 
border  of  the  lids,  tlxe  function  of  which  is  to  facilitate  their  move- 
ments and  enable  them  to  retain  the  tears  in  the  ocular  cavity.  The 
eyelid  is  composed  of  a  fibrous  inner  membrane  ending  in  a  stiff  arch 
near  the  border,  a  muscle  to  close  the  lid,  another  to  open  it,  the 
skin  externally,  and  the  conjunctival  mucous  membrane  internally. 
The  border  of  each  lid  is  covered  and  protected  by  long  hairs  to  pre- 
vent floating  particles  of  matter  in  the  atmosphere  gaining  entrance 
to  the  eye. 

The  membrana  nictitans,  which  is  also  named  the  third  eyelid, 
winking  eyelid,  haw,  etc.,  is  placed  at  the  inner  angle  of  the  eye, 
whence  it  extends  over  the  eyeball  to  relieve  it  from  foreign  bodies 
which  may  fall  upon  it.  It  has  for  its  framework  a  fibro-cartilage, 
irregidar  in  shape,  thick,  nearly  prismatic  at  its  base,  and  thin 
anteriorly  where  it  is  covered  by  the  conjunctiva ;  behind,  it  is  loosely 
attached  to  a  fatty  cushion. 

The  lacrimal  gland  is  situated  between  the  orbital  process  and  the 
upper  part  of  the  eyeball.    It  secretes  the  tears  destined  to  lubricate 


342  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

the  anterior  surface  of  the  eye.  This  fluid  escapes  upon  the  organ 
at  the  outer  angle  of  the  lids  and  is  carried  between  them  and  the 
eyeball  toward  the  inner  angle. 

The  caruncula  lacrimalis  is  a  small  round  body,  frequently  entirely 
or  partially  black,  situated  in  the  inner  angle  of  the  eye,  and  is  de- 
signed to  direct  the  tears  toward  the  puncta  lacrimalia. 

The  puncta  lacrimalia  are  two  little  openings,  situated  one  in  each 
eyelid,  a  short  distance  from  the  inner  corner,  which  admit  the  tears 
into  the  lacrimal  ducts  leading  to  the  lacrimal  canal,  whence  they  are 
emptied  into  the  nasal  passages. 

CONJUNCTIVITIS  (SIMPLE  OPHTHALMIA). 

This  is  an  inflammation  of  the  conjunctival  mucous  membrane  of 
the  eyeball  and  lids ;  in  severe  cases  the  deeper  coats  of  the  eye  are 
involved,  seriously  complicating  the  attack. 

Causes. — It  may  result  from  a  bruise  of  the  eyelid ;  from  the  intro- 
duction of  foreign  matters  into  the  eye,  as  chaff,  hayseed,  dust,  gnats, 
etc.;  from  exposure  to  cold;  poisonous  or  irritating  vapors  arising 
from  filthiness  of  stable.  Dust,  cinders,  or  sand  blown  into  the  eyes 
during  transportation  frequently  cause  conjunctivitis. 

Symptoms. — A  profuse  flow  of  tears,  closure  of  the  eyelids  from 
intolerance  of  light,  retraction  of  the  eyeball  and  corresponding  pro- 
trusion of  the  haw,  disinclination  to  move,  diminution  of  milk  secre- 
tion, etc.  On  parting  the  lids  the  lining  membrane  is  found  injected 
with  an  excess  of  blood,  giving  it  a  red  and  swollen  appearance ;  the 
sclerotic,  or  white  of  the  eye,  is  bloodshot  and  the  cornea  may  be 
cloudy.  If  the  disease  advances,  keratitis  results,  with  its  train  of 
unfavorable  symptoms. 

Treatment. — Careful  examination  should  be  made  to  discover  par- 
ticles of  chuff,  etc.,  which  may  have  lodged  in  the  eye,  and  upon  the 
discovery  of  such  a  cause  prompt  removal  is  indicated.  This  may 
be  accomplished  by  flushing  the  eye  with  warm  water  by  means  of  a 
syringe,  or,  if  the  foreign  substance  is  adherent  to  the  eyeball  or  lid, 
it  may  be  scooped  out  with  the  handle  of  a  teaspoon  or  some  other 
blunt  instrument.  To  relieve  the  congestion  and  local  irritation,  a 
wash  composed  of  boracic  acid  in  freshly  boiled  water,  20  grains  to 
the  ounce,  or  acetate  of  zinc,  5  grains  to  the  ounce  of  pure  soft 
water,  may  be  used,  to  which  may  be  added  20  drops  of  laudanum. 
A  few  drops  of  this  should  be  placed  in  the  eye  with  a  camel's-hair 
pencil  or  soft  feather  three  or  four  times  daily.  The  animal  should 
be  placed  in  a  cool,  darkened  stable;  then  a  cloth  folded  into  several 
thicknesses  should  be  fastened  to  the  horns  in  such  manner  as  to 
reach  below  the  eyes.  This  should  be  kept  wet  with  cold  water 
during  the  day  and  removed  at  night.     If  there  is  much  fever  and 


DISEASES    OF    THE    EYE.  343 

constitutional    disturbance,   it   becomes    advisable  to    administer    1 
pound  of  Epsom  salt  dissolved  in  1  quart  of  water. 

INFECTIOUS  CATARRHAL   CONJUNCTIVITIS    (SPECIFIC 
OPHTHALMIA). 

This  generally  appears  in  an  enzootic  or  epizootic  form  and  affects 
a  considerable  number  in  the  herd.  It  is  distinctly  a  contagious 
disease  and  may  be  brought  into  a  previously  healthy  herd  by  one 
infected  animal.  It  may  continue  in  a  herd  for  a  season  or  for 
several  years,  affecting  all  newly  purchased  animals.  It  is  seldom 
seen  in  the  winter  months.     It  affects  old  and  young  animals  alike. 

Symptoms. — This  form  of  catarrh  conjunctivitis  is  characterized 
chiefly  by  a  mucopurulent  discharge  from  the  eyes,  an  intense  degree 
of  inflammation  of  the  mucous  membrane,  accompanied  with  swell- 
ing of  the  eyelids  and  an  early  opacity  of  the  cornea.  The  flow  of 
tears  is  mixed  with  pus,  sometimes  streaked  with  blood,  and  the  skin 
of  the  face  is  kept  moist  and  soiled.  The  eyes  are  kept  continually 
closed.  The  implication  of  the  cornea  in  the  disease  frequently 
blinds  the  animal  for  a  time,  and  occasionally  suppurative  keratitis, 
ulcers  of  the  cornea,  or  staphyloma  supervene.  The  attack  is  marked 
from  the  onset  by  fever,  partial  loss  of  appetite,  partial  loss  of  milk, 
suspended  rumination,  and  separation  from  the  herd. 

Treatment. — The  animal  should  be  housed  in  a  cool,  dark  stable, 
supplied  with  plenty  of  fresh  water  to  drink  and  soft,  succulent  feed. 
Administer  1  pound  of  Epsom  salt — if  a  very  large  animal,  use  1^ 
pounds — dissolved  in  2  or  3  pints  of  water.  For  an  eyewash,  take 
boracic  acid,  1  dram,  and  pour  4  ounces  of  boiling  water  over  it. 
Use  this  as  often  as  is  convenient,  applying  it  directly  to  the  eye.  In 
the  majority  of  cases  improvement  becomes  manifest  in  a  few  days, 
and  the  eye  becomes  clear  and  free  from  inflammation  in  10  days 
or  2  weeks.  'VMiere  the  disease  develops  ulceration  of  the  cornea,  or 
well-marked,  deep-seated  keratitis,  the  treatment  recommended  for 
those  conditions  should  be  adopted. 

Prevention. — Whenever  this  affection  appears  in  a  herd  all  the 
unaffected  animals  should  be  moved  to  fields  which  possess  a  different 
character  of  soil  and  feed.  The  water  should  also  be  changed,  espe- 
cially if  they  have  been  obtaining  it  from  a  stagnant  pond. 

KERATITIS  (CORNEITIS). 

This  is  an  inflammation  of  the  cornea  proper,  although  the  sclerotic 
at  the  corneal  border  becomes  invohed  to  some  extent.  It  may  be 
divided  into  diffuse  and  suppurative. 

Causes. — The  cornea 'constitutes  the  most  prominent  portion  of  the 
eyeball,  hence  it  is  subject  to  a  variety  of  injuries — scratches,  pricks, 


344  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

contusions,  lacerations,  etc.  Inflammation  of  the  cornea  may  also  be 
due  to  the  extension  of  catarrhal  conjunctivitis  or  intraocular  dis- 
ease, and  it  may  occasionally  occur  without  any  perceptible  cause. 

Symptoms. — Diffuse  keratitis  is  characterized  by  an  exudation  into 
and  an  opacity  of  the  cornea.  The  SAvelling  of  the  anterior  part  of 
the  eyeball  may  be  of  an  irregular  form,  in  points  resembling  small 
bladders,  or  it  may  commence  at  the  periphery  of  the  cornea  by  an 
abrupt  thickening,  which  gradually  diminishes  as  it  approaches  the 
center.  If  the  whole  cornea  is  affected,  it  has  a  uniform  gray  or 
grayish-white  appearance.  .  The  flow  of  tears  is  not  so  marked  as  in 
conjunctivitis,  nor  is  the  suffering  so  acute,  though  both  conditions 
often  exist  together.  Both  eyes  usually  become  affected,  unless  it  is 
caused  by  an  external  injury. 

In  favorable  cases  the  exudate  within  the  cornea  begins  to  disap- 
pear within  a  week  or  10  days,  the  eye  becomes  clearer  and  regains 
its  transparency,  until  it  eventually  is  fully  restored.  In  unfavor- 
able cases  blood  vessels  form  and  are  seen  to  traverse  the  affected  part 
from  periphery  to  center,  vision  becomes  entirelj^  lost,  and  permanent 
opacity  (albugo  or  leucoma)  remains.  When  it  arises  from  constitu- 
tional causes  recurrence  is  frequent,  leaving  the  corneal  membrane 
more  cloudy  after  each  attack,  until  the  sight  is  permanently  lost. 

Suppurative  keratitis  may  be  a  sequel  of  diffuse  keratitis;  more 
commonly,  however,  it  abruptly  becomes  manifest  by  a  raised  swell- 
ing on  or  near  the  center  of  the  cornea  that  very  soon  assumes  a  yel- 
loAv,  turbid  color,  while  the  periphery  of  the  swelling  fades  into  an 
opaque  ring.  Suppurative  keratitis  is  seldom  noticed  for  the  first 
day  or  two — not  until  distinct  pus  formation  has  occurred.  When 
it  is  the  result  of  diffuse  keratitis,  ulceration  and  the  escape  of  the 
contained  pus  is  inevitable;  otherwise  the  pus  may  be  absorbed. 
When  the  deeper  membranes  covering  the  anterior  chamber  of  the  ej^e 
become  involved,  the  contents  of  this  chamber  may  be  evacuated  and 
the  sight  permanently  lost. 

Treatment, — Place  the  animal  in  a  darkened  stable,  give  green  or 
sloppy  feed,  and  administer  4  ounces  of  Glauber's  salt  (sulphate  of 
soda)  dissolved  in  a  quart  of  water  once  a  day.  If  the  aninuil  is 
debilitated  a  tablespoonful  of  tonic  powder  should  be  mixed  with  the 
feed  three  times  a  day.  This  may  be  composed  of  equal  parts  by 
weight  of  powdered  copperas  (sulphate  of  iron),  gentian,  and  ginger. 
As  an  application  for  the  eye,  nitrate  of  silver,  3  grains  to  the  ounce 
of  soft  water,  with  the  addition  of  1  grain  sulphate  of  morphia,  may 
be  used  several  times  a  day.  If  ulceration  occurs,  it  is  well  to  dust 
powdered  calomel  into  the  eye  twice  daily,  or  apply  to  the  eyelids  a 
salve  of  yellow  oxid  of  mercury,  5  per  cei^t  in  lanolin.  Some  of 
this  may  go  on  to  the  cornea  and  beneath  the  lids.  Apply  twice  daily. 
(See  "Ulcers  of  the  cornea.") 


DISEASES    OF    THE    EYE.  345 

To  remove  opacity,  after  the  inflammation  has  subsided,  apply  a 
few  drops  of  the  following  solution  twice  a  day:  lodid  of  potas- 
sium, 15  grains;  tincture  sanguinaria,  20  drops;  distilled  water,  2 
ounces;  mix. 

Sometimes  keratitis  exists  in  a  herd  as  a  transmissible  disease, 
spreading  like  infectious  conjunctivitis.  Calomel,  applied  to  the  eye, 
is  especially  useful  in  such  cases. 

ULCERS  OF  THE  CORNEA. 

An  ulcer  comes  from  erosion  or  is  the  consequence  of  the  bursting 
of  a  small  abscess,  which  may  have  formed  beneath  the  delicate  layer 
of  the  conjunctiva,  continued  over  the  cornea ;  or,  in  the  very  sub- 
stance of  the  cornea  itself,  after  violent  keratitis,  or  catarrhal  con- 
junctivitis. At  other  times  it  is  produced  by  bruises,  scratches,  or 
other  direct  injury  of  the  cornea. 

Symptoms. — The  ulcer  is  generally  at  first  of  a  pale  gray  color, 
with  its  edges  high  and  irregular,  discharges  instead  of  pus  an  acrid, 
watery  substance,  and  has  a  tendency  to  spread  widely  and  deeply. 
If  it  spreads  superficially  upon  the  cornea,  the  transparency  of  this 
membrane  is  lost;  if  it  proceeds  deeply  and  penetrates  the  anterior 
chamber  of  the  aqueous  humor,  this  fluid  escapes,  the  iris  may  pro- 
lapse, and  the  lens  and  the  vitreous  humor  become  expelled,  thus 
producing  destruction  of  the  whole  organ. 

Treatment. — It  is  of  the  greatest  importance,  as  soon  as  an  ulcer 
appears  upon  the  cornea,  to  prevent  its  growing  larger.  The  corrod- 
ing process  must  be  converted  into  a  healthy  one.  For  this  purpose 
nothing  is  more  reliable  than  the  use  of  solid  nitrate  of  silver.  A 
stick  of  this  medicine  should  be  scraped  to  a  point;  the  animal's 
head  should  be  firmly  secured;  an  assistant  should  part  the  lids;  if 
necessary,  the  haw  must  be  secured  within  the  corner  of  the  eye  and 
then  all  parts  of  the  ulcer  should  be  lightly  touched  with  the  silver. 
After  waiting  a  few  minutes  the  eye  should  be  thoroughly  washed 
out  with  a  very  weak  solution  of  common  salt.  This  operation  gen- 
erally has  to  be  repeated  at  the  end  of  three  or  four  days.  If  healthy 
action  succeeds,  the  ulcer  assumes  a  delicate  fleshy  tint,  and  the 
former  redness  around  the  ulcer  disappears  in  proportion  as  the  ulcer 
heals.  " 

In  superficial  abrasions  of  the  cornea,  where  there  is  no  distinct 
excavation,  this  caustic  treatment  is  not  needed.  The  eye  should  be 
bathed  several  times  a  dav  with  sulphate  of  zinc,  30  grains  to  half  a 
pint  of  soft  water,  and  protected  against  exposure  to  cold  air  and 
sunlight.  Excessive  ulceration  sometimes  assumes  the  form  of  fun- 
gous excrescence  upon  the  cornea,  appearing  to  derive  its  nourish- 
ment from  loops  of  blood  vessels  of  the  conjunctiva.     Under  these 


346  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

circumstances  the  fungoid  mass  must  be  cut  away  and  the  wound 
cauterized  with  the  nitrate  of  silver,  or  else  the  eye  will  soon  be 
destroyed.  Wlien  ulcers  of  the  cornea  appear  indolent,  with  a  tend- 
ency to  slough,  in  addition  to  the  treatment  already  prescribed,  tonic 
powders  of  copperas,  gentian,  and  ginger,  equal  parts  by  weight, 
should  be  given  twice  a  day,  mixed  w4th  the  feed;  dose,  one  table- 
spoonful. 

STAPHYLOMA. 

This  is  a  disease  of  the  eyeball,  in  which  the  cornea  loses  its  trans- 
parency, rises  above  the  level  of  the  eye,  and  even  projects  beyond  the 
eyelids  in  the  form  of  an  elongated,  whitish,  or  pearl-colored  tumor, 
which  is  sometimes  smooth,  at  other  times  uneven. 

Causes. — Inflammation  is  the  only  known  cause,  although  it  may 
not  occur  immediately;  it  frequently  follows  catarrhal  conjunctivitis 
and  keratitis  as  a  sequela. 

Treatment. — In  a  few  cases  restoration  of  sight  may  be  effected  by 
puncturing  the  projecting  tumor  and  treating  it  afterwards  with 
nitrate  of  silver  in  the  same  manner  as  prescribed  for  ulceration  of 
the  cornea.  In  some  cases  spontaneous  rupture  has  occurred,  and 
healing  without  any  treatment  at  all. 

CATARACT. 

In  cataract  the  crystalline  lens  becomes  opaque  and  loses  its  trans- 
parency, the  power  of  refraction  is  lost — the  animal  can  not  see. 

Causes. — Cataract  generally  arises  from  a  diminution  (atrophy) 
or  other  change  in  the  nutrition  of  the  lens ;  it  may  occur  as  a  result 
of  inflammation  of  the  deep  structures  of  the  eye.  Cataract  may  be 
simple,  or  complicated  with  amaurosis,  adhesions,  etc. 

Symjjtoms. — It  is  known  by  the  whiteness  or  loss  of  transparency 
of  the  lens,  although  the  pupil  dilates  and  contracts.  Sight  ma}'  be 
totally  lost;  however,  evidence  is  usually  manifested  that  the  animal 
distinguishes  light  when  brought  out  of  a  darkened  stable.  For  the 
most  part  the  formation  of  cataract  takes  place  sloAvly,  the  cases  in 
which  it  originates  very  quickly  being  but  few. 

Treatment. — There  is  only  one  method  for  the  treatment  of  cata- 
ract— a  surgical  operation  for  the  removal  of  the  lens;  but  this  is  not 
advisable,  for  the  sight  can  not  be  perfectly  restored,  and  objects 
would  be  seen  imperfectly  without  the  aid  of  glasses. 

AMAUROSIS. 

This  is  a  paralysis  of  the  nerve  of  sight  or  the  expansion  of  the 
retini. 

Causes. — This  is  the  result  of  concussion  from  a  blow  upon  the 
forehead,  fracture  of  bone  over  the  eye  (causing  downward  pressure), 


DISEASES    OF    THE    EYE,  347 

rheumatic  inflammation  of  the  optic  nerve,  or  from  extension  of  deep 
inflammation  of  the  eye  involving  the  retina.  It  sometimes  occurs 
as  the  result  of  excessive  loss  of  blood  or  of  great  debility. 

SymptOTns. — In  this  disease  observation  is  seldom  made  until  the 
animal  in  its  gait  and  by  its  action  indicates  blindness.  Generally 
both  eyes  are  affected.  The  eyeball  remains  clear,  and  the  pupil  is 
permanently  dilated.     No  response  to  light  is  manifested. 

Treatment. — If  caused  by  debility,  loss  of  blood,  or  associated  with 
rheumatism,  general  blood  tonics  may  be  given  in  the  feed,  namely, 
powdered  sulphate  of  iron,  1  dram;  gentian,  2  drams;  nux  vomica, 
one-half  dram;  to  be  given  twice  a  day.  In  cases  of  rheumatism, 
one-half  ounce  of  saltpeter  may  be  added. 

FILARIA  OCULI   (WORM  IN  THE  EYE). 

Filaria  oculi  (provisionally  taken  as  the  larva  of  F.  cervina)  is  a 
small  white  worm,  found  swimming  in  the  aqueous  fluid  in  the  ante- 
rior chamber.  It  may  be  apparently  harmless  for  a  long  time,  but 
will  eventually  induce  keratitis  with  inflammatory  exudations. 

Treatment. — The  cornea  may  be  punctured  at  its  upper  and  outer 
margin,  and  the  worm  squeezed  out  with  the  aqueous  humor.  The 
latter  will  be  formed  again.  This  operation  results  disastrously 
unless  the  greatest  care  and  skill  are  employed. 

CORNEAL  DERMATOMA  (HAIRY  TUMOR  ON  THE  EYEBALL). 

In  a  few  instances  this  has  been  seen  as  a  congenital  growth.  The 
tumor  arises  from  the  cornea  or  the  sclerotic,  covered  by  its  respective 
membrane,  with  a  growth  of  hair  upon  its  surface.  These  tumors 
may  be  quite  prominent  or  flattened,  and  are  dark  in  color;  the  hair 
may  protrude  between  the  eyelids,  giving  the  animal  the  appearance 
of  having  a  double  eyelid. 

Treatment. — A  surgical  operation  becomes  necessary  for  their  re- 
moval— one  requiring  a  skilled  operator. 

STRABISMUS  (SQUINTING). 

This  is  a  very  rare  affection  among  cattle.  Strabismus  may  be 
either  single  or  double — affecting  one  eye  or  both.  It  is  caused  by  a 
paralysis,  or  a  weakening  of  one  of  the  straight  muscles  of  the  eye- 
ball. Generally  it  is  a  congenital  defect,  and  the  squinting  is  toward 
the  nose — strabismus  convergens.  It  is  best  not  to  attempt  to  remedy 
the  defect,  as  the  risk  in  an  operation  is  greater  than  the  chances  of 
success  warrant. 

PTERYGIUM. 

This  term  is  applied  to  a  flesh-colored  membrane,  triangular  in 
form,  which  most  frequently  grows  from  the  inner  angle  of  the  eye 


348  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

sind  extends  over  the  cornea,  thus  interfering  with  vision.  It  may 
groAV  from  the  outer  angle,  or  even  from  either  the  superior  or  in- 
ferior hemisphere  of  the  eyeball.  The  figure  is  invariably  that  of  a 
triangle,  with  its  base  on  the  white  of  the  eye  and  its  apex  more  or 
less  advanced  oA'er  the  cornea  toward  its  center. 

The  distinguishing  characteristics  are  the  constancy  of  the  tri- 
angular form,  and  the  facility  with  which  the  whole  of  it  may  be 
taken  hold  of  with  a  pair  of  forceps  and  raised  into  a  fold  on  the 
cornea.  Every  other  kind  of  excrescence  attached  to  this  membrane 
continues  firmly  adherent  to  it,  and  can  not  be  folded  and  raised  from 
the  surface  of  the  cornea  in  any  manner  whatever. 

Treatment. — Eaise  the  fold  and  dissect  it  away  from  all  points  of 
attachment. 

TRICHIASIS    (INVERSION   OF   THE    EYELASHES). 

In  the  simplest  form  the  eyelashes  bend  inwardly,  touching  the 
eyeball,  causing  irritation  and  simple  conjunctivitis.  It  may  be  also 
associated  with  entropion. 

Treatment. — The  offending  eyelashes  should  be  cvit  off  or  pulled 
out.  In  case  the  natural  growth  of  the  eyelashes  is  directed  inward, 
an  operation  similar  to  that  for  entropion  becomes  necessary. 

ENTROPION  (INVERSION  OF  THE  EYELID). 

In  inversion  of  the  eyelid  the  eyelashes  soon  irritate  the  anterior 
face  of  the  cornea  and  produce  more  or  less  inflammation  and  opacity. 
The  inversion  may  be  due  to  the  growth  of  a  tumor  within  or  with- 
out the  lid,  to  abscess,  laceration,  or  injury,  causing  the  lid  to  lose  its 
natural  conformity  to  the  eyeball,  ulcerations,  etc.  Surgical  inter- 
ference in  either  case  becomes  necessary  to  restore  the  lid  to  its 
natural  direction. 

ECTROPION  (EVERSION  OF  THE  EYELID). 

This  serves  to  injure  the  eye  by  permitting  dust  or  other  foreign 
substances  to  enter  the  eye  and  interferes  with  the  natural  removal 
of  them. 

Treatment. — A  delicate  surgical  operation — ^the  removal  of  an 
elliptic  section  of  the  palpebral  conjunctiva — may  remedy  the  defect. 

TUMORS  OF  THE  EYELIDS. 

Occasionally  tumors  form  upon  or  within  the  substance  of  the  eye- 
lid. They  may  be  of  a  fibroid  nature  and  arise  from  the  follicles 
of  the  hair  as  sebaceous  tumors  or  may  be  in  the  form  of  an  abscess. 
In  debilitating  diseases  the  lids  sometimes  become  swollen  and  puffy, 
a  condition  which  may  possibly  be  taken  for  the  growth  of  a  tumor. 
This  generally  disappears  with  the  improvement  of  the  health  of  the 


DISEASES    OF    THE    EYE.  349 

animal.     Warts  not  uncommonly  appear  on  or  about  the  eyelids  of 
cattle. 

Treatment. — The  removal  of  a  tumor  in  the  vicinity  of  so  delicate 
an  organ  as  the  eye  should  not  be  attempted  by  anyone  not  qualified 
to  perform  the  operation. 

LACERATION  OF  THE  EYELID. 

This  accident  is  not  uncommon  where  cattle  are  fenced  in  by 
barbed  wire ;  an  animal  may  be  caught  under  the  eyelid  by  the  horn 
of  another,  or  the  laceration  may  otcur  in  the  stable  by  means  of  a 
projecting  nail  or  splinter  of  wood. 

Treatment. — The  edges  of  the  wound  should  be  brought  together 
closely  and  correctly,  by  means  of  pins  pushed  through  very  nearly 
the  whole  thickness  of  the  lid,  extending  through  each  lip  of  the 
torn  part ;  then  a  waxed  silk  or  linen  thread  must  be  wound  over 
each  end  of  the  pin,  crossing  the  torn  line  in  the  form  of  the  figure 
8  (PI.  XXVII,  fig.  9)  ;  the  pins  should  be  placed  about  three-eighths 
of  an  inch  apart.  The  projecting  ends  of  the  pins  should  be  cut 
off  close  to  the  ligature,  and  the  parts  kept  anointed  with  vaseline, 
to  w^hich  2  per  cent  of  compound  cresol  has  been  added.  In  place 
of  a  pin  suture,  silver  wire,  catgut,  or  strong  linen  thread  may  be 
used  in  the  way  of  an  ordinary  suture. 

FOREIGN  BODIES  IN  THE  EYE. 

Splinters  of  wood,  hedge  thorns,  pieces  of  cornstalk  or  leaves,  stems 
of  hay  or  straw,  twigs  of  trees,  or  weeds  may  penetrate  into  the  eye, 
break  off,  and  remain,  causing  inflammation,  blindness,  abscess,  etc. 
These  substances  may  penetrate  the  eyeball,  but  more  frequently 
they  glide  off  and  enter  between  the  eye  and  the  ocular  sheath. 

Treatment. — Their  removal  becomes  often  a  very  difficult  task, 
from  the  fact  that  the  organ  is  so  extremely  sensitive,  and  the  re- 
tracting power  so  strong  as  to  necessitate  casting  the  animal,  or  even 
the  administration  of  sufficient  chloroform  to  render  it  completely 
insensible.  The  removal,  however,  is  of  paramount  importance, 
and  the  after  treatment  depends  upon  the  extent  and  location  of  the 
injury — cold  water  compress  over  the  injured  eye,  the  application  of 
mild  astringent  and  cooling  washes,  such  as  acetate  or  sulphate  of 
zinc,  5  grains  to  the  ounce  of  Avater.  When  there  is  extreme  suffer- 
ing from  pain  a  solution  of  atropia  or  morphia,  5  grains  to  the 
ounce  of  water,  may  be  dropped  into  the  eye,  alternating  with  the 
cooling  wash  several  times  a  day.  When  abscesses  form  within 
the  orbit  a  free  opening  must  be  maintained  for  the  discharge  of  pus. 
In  deep  penetrating  wounds  of  the  eye  there  is  a  great  tendency 
to  the  formation  of  a  fungous  growth,  which  often  necessitates  the 
enucleation  of  the  whole  eyeball. 


350  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

ORBITAL  AND  PERIORBITAL  ABSCESS. 

Orbital  abscess  may  form  outside  the  globe  and  within  the  orbital 
sheath,  as  the  result  of  a  previous  wound  of  the  parts  or  from 
fracture  of  the  bony  orbit,  etc.  Periorbital  abscess  commences  out- 
side the  ocular  sheath,  beneath  the  periosteal  membrane  covering 
the  bone,  and  is  usually  the  result  of  a  disease  or  fractured  bone 
which  enters  into  the  formation  of  the  orbital  cavity. 

SymjJtoms. — Orbital  abscess  is  manifested  by  a  pushing  forward 
of  the  eyeball  (exophthalmos),  a  swelling  of  the  conjunctiva  and 
eyelids.  The  bulging  out  of  the  eye  is  in  proportion  to  the  size  of 
the  abscess;  the  movement  of  the  eye  is  fixed,  due  to  the  painful- 
ness  of  any  voluntary  movement  of  the  eyeball.  Periorbital  abscess 
generally  pushes  the  eye  to  one  side;  otherwise  the  symptoms  are 
similar  to  the  foregoing.  The  pain  generally  is  very  great ;  paralysis 
of  the  nerve  of  sight  may  occur,  and  death  may  be  caused  by  the 
abscess  extending  to  the  brain. 

Treatment. — The  treatment  for  either  orbital  or  periorbital  abscess 
is  the  same  as  that  for  abscess  occurring  in  any  other  part  of  the 
body — a  free  opening  for  the  escape  of  imprisoned  pus.  This  should 
be  made  as  soon  as  the  true  nature  of  the  disease  is  recognized. 
Afterwards  antiseptic  injections  may  be  needed  to  stimulate  healthy 
granulation  and  to  prevent  septic  infection  of  the  ocular  membranes. 
For  this  purpose  a  saturated  solution  of  boric  acid  or  listerine  1  part 
to  10  of  water  may  be  used.  When  the  fever  runs  high,  Glauber's 
salt  (sulphate  of  soda)  may  be  given  in  l-ounce  doses  once  a  day. 
The  animal  should  be  kept  in  a  darkened  stable,  on  soft  or  green  feed. 

FRACTURE  OF  THE  ORBIT. 

This  accident  occasionally  occurs  among  belligerent  animals,  or  as 
the  result  of  blows  delivered  by  brutal  attendants.  The  orbital  proc- 
ess above  the  eye  may  be  entirely  crushed  in,  pressing  down  upon  the 
eyeball.  In  such  an  event  the  depressed  bone  should  be  elevated  into 
its  proper  place,  and  if  it  fails  to  unite  it  may  have  to  be  removed 
with  saw  or  chisel.  The  margin  of  the  orbit  may  be  crushed  at  any 
point  and  cause  periorbital  abscess,  or  necrosis  may  result  from  the 
presence  of  a  splinter  of  bone  or  the  excessive  destruction  of  bone. 
In  all  cases  of  fracture  the  animal  should  be  kept  by  itself  until  the 
injured  part  heals. 

NECROSIS  OF  THE  BONY  ORBIT. 

As  the  result  of  fracture  of  the  margin  of  the  orbit  a  part  of  the 
injured  bone  may  become  necrosed  (dead),  and  periostitis  and  perior- 
bital abscess  will  follow  as  a  consequence.  The  discovery  of  this  dis- 
ease will  at  first  resemble  abscess,  but  on  making  an  examination  with 


DISEASES    OF    THE    EYE.  351 

a  probe  after  the  abscess  is  open  we  find  the  bone  rough  and  brittle 
at  the  point  of  disease.  The  discharge  has  a  peculiar  fetid  odor, 
and  is  often  mixed  with  blood. 

Treatment. — The  aflPected  bone  must  be  laid  bare  and  all  diseased 
portions  removed  by  scraping  or,  if  necessary,  with  saw  or  chisel, 
disregarding  the  extent  of  the  injury  or  the  size  of  the  wound  neces- 
sary to  be  inflicted.  A  large  portion  of  the  bony  orbit  may  be  re- 
moved without  serious  danger  to  the  eye,  provided  the  eyeball  itself 
has  not  been  previously  affected  by  the  disease  or  involved  in  the 
original  injury. 

TUMORS  OF  THE  ORBIT. 

A  fungous  tumor  of  the  eyeball  or  orbit  occasionally  appears,  which 
is  designated  fungus  hsematodes.  This  may  arise  without  any  appre- 
ciable cause,  or  as  the  result  of  a  wound.  It  frequently  commences 
within  the  eyeball  as  a  small,  red  mass,  eventually  bursts  through, 
and  pushes  its  way  outside  the  orbit  as  a  large,  dark-red  mass,  bleed- 
ing at  the  slightest  touch.  It  has  a  peculiar,  fetid  odor,  and  early  in 
its  appearance  destroys  sight,  involving  all  the  contents  of  the  orbit, 
not  infrequently  the  bony  wall  itself. 

Unless  the  tumor  is  totally  removed  in  its  early  stage  of  growth, 
together  with  the  eyeball,  the  disease  will  eventually  cause  emaciation 
and  death  of  the  animal.  The  enucleation  of  the  eyeball  should  not  be 
undertaken  by  anyone  unacquainted  with  the  anatomical  structures 
involved  in  such  an  operation.  When  the  operation  is  performed 
early  enough  the  result  is  generally  satisfactory. 

Bony  tumors  of  the  orbit,  the  result  of  bruises,  fractures,  etc.,  are 
occasionally  present  in  cattle.  They  may  encroach  upon  the  contents 
of  the  orbit,  causing  paralj^sis  of  the  optic  nerve — the  condition 
known  as  amaurosis — or  by  pressure  upon  the  posterior  surface  of  the 
eyeball  force  it  forward,  or  produce  atrophy  (shrinking).  They  may 
displace  the  eye  in  any  direction,  with  or  without  disturbing  vision. 

Fibrous  tumors  growing  within  the  orbit  will  produce  symptoms 
similar  to  those  of  bony  tumors. 

Treatment. — When  the  outlines  of  the  tumor,  whether  fungoid, 
bony,  or  fibrous,  can  be  detected,  an  operation  for  its  removal  should 
be  undertaken  as  soon  as  the  sight  of  the  eye  is  in  any  manner  dis- 
turbed. 

DISLOCATION  OF  THE  EYEBALL. 

The  eyeball  may  be  torn  out  of  its  socket  by  the  horns  of  another 
animal,  or  it  may  be  crowded  out  with  the  blunt  end  of  a  club,  cane, 
or  probe  in  the  hands  of  a  brutal  attendant. 

Treatment. — When  the  optic  nei^^e  is  not  lacerated  and  the  retrac- 
tor muscles  at  the  back  of  the  eye  are  intact,  an  attempt  at  reduction 


352  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

is  advisable.  This,  however,  must  follow  very  soon  after  the  in- 
jury— before  swelling  takes  place.  Divide  the  outer  corner  of  the 
eyelid  to  enlarge  the  orifice,  then  by  pressure  with  the  fingers  of  both 
hands  placed  upon  the  sides  of  the  eye  the  ball  may  be  put  into  its 
place.  Apply  a  firm  compress  over  the  injured  eye  and  keep  it 
constantly  wet  with  cold  water  containing  1  dram  of  sugar  of  lead  to 
each  quart. 

If  the  attempt  at  reduction  proves  unsuccessful  the  artery  at  the 
back  of  the  eye  should  be  ligated,  and  then  the  whole  mass  cut  off  as 
deep  within  the  orbit  as  possible.  The  orbital  cavity,  after  washing 
it  out  with  a  3  per  cent  solution  of  carbolic  acid  or  compound  cresol, 
should  be  packed  daily  with  fresh  absorbent  cotton. 

INFLAMMATION  AND  ENLARGEMENT  OF  THE  HAW. 

The  haw,  or  membrana  nictitans,  is  subject  to  inflammation  and 
swelling  from  the  extension  of  conjunctivitis,  or  direct  injury  by  for- 
eign substances.  It  presents  a  red,  swollen  appearance,  accompanied 
with  considerable  pain  and  a  profuse  flow  of  tears.  A  slight  scari- 
fication with  a  sharp  knife  and  the  application  of  a  cooling  lotion, 
such  as  is  recommended  for  conjunctivitis,  will  soon  reduce  the  swell- 
ing and  restore  it  to  its  normal  function. 

There  is,  however,  a  tendency  for  an  inflammation  of  this  mem- 
bi-ane  to  take  on  a  chronic  character,  which  may  eventually  result  in 
a  permanent  enlargement,  resembling  a  tumor.  When  it  attains 
sufficient  size  to  protrude  itself  permanently  over  the  eye,  or  project 
between  the  lids  so  as  to  obstruct  the  sight,  its  removal  may  become 
necessary.  A  threaded  needle  is  passed  through  the  body  of  the  en- 
larged mass,  by  which  the  membrane  is  drawn  out  as  far  as  possible, 
then  with  a  blunt  pair  of  scissors  it  may  be  dissected  away  from  its 
attachments.  The  eye  is  afterwards  treated  with  simple  cooling 
lotions. 


DISEASES  OF  THE  EAR. 

By  M.  R.  Trumboweh,  D.  V.  S. 
[Revised  by  Leonard  Pearson,  B.  S.,  V.  M.  D.] 

Diseases  of  the  ears  of  cattle  are  not  very  common,  for  the  reasons 
probably  that  they  are  not  subjected  to  the  brutality  of  drivers  so 
much  as  horses  and  that  the  horns  to  a  great  extent  protect  them 
against  external  violence. 

OTITIS  (INFLAMMATION  OF  THE  INTERNAL  EAR). 

Inflamjnation  of  the  deep  part  of  the  ear  is  often  difficult  to  recog- 
nize in  cattle.  It  may  be  caused  by  disease  of  bone  in  that  region, 
from  blows  inflicted  by  drivers,  or  from  injury  by  other  cattle. 
Occasionally  the  ear  becomes  involved  in  actinomycosis  (lumpy  jaw), 
or  the  inflammation  may  be  the  result  of  a  tuberculous  affection. 

Symptoms. — The  animal  will  hold  its  head  to  one  side,  or  shake  it, 
Avhile  the  ear  itself  is  held  immovable.  The  movement  of  the  jaws  in 
eating  usually  gives  rise  to  a  manifestation  of  pain ;  the  base  of  the 
ear  may  be  feverish  and  swollen,  and  very  sensitive  to  the  touch.  If 
the  inflammation  has  advanced  to  a  suppurative  stage,  offensive  mat- 
ter will  flow  from  the  ear. 

Treatment. — At  first,  hot  fomentations  to  reduce  pain  and  fever, 
followed  by  a  sharp  blister  below  the  ear.  Laudanum,  1  part  to  10 
of  sweet  oil,  may  be  injected  into  the,  ear  to  relieve  pain  and  to 
soften  the  secretions.  If  there  is  a  discharge  from  the  ear,  it  should 
be  thoroughly  washed  out  by  injecting  warm  soapsuds  until  all  the 
matter  has  been  washed  away;  then  inject  the  following  mixture 
twice  a  day:  Sulphate  of  morphia,  20  grains;  water,  1  pint;  glycerin, 
4  ounces. 

ABSCESS. 

Abscesses,  caused  by  contusions,  sometimes  form  about  the  base  of 
the  ear,  either  inside  or  outside.  A  serous  cyst  is  found  occasionally 
between  the  cartilage  and  the  skin  on  the  base  of  the  ear,  which  may 
be  from  a  similar  cause. 

Treatm^ent. — With  the  laiife  make  a  free  incision  •  into  the  most 
prominent  part  of  the  abscess  or  cyst,  then,  with  a  syringe,  wash  out 
the  sac  with  carbolized  water.  If  the  abscess  recurs,  open  it  again, 
wash  it  out,  and  inject  tincture  of  iodin,  or  fill  it  with  iodoform. 

FUNGOID  GROWTHS. 

As  a  result  of  laceration  or  wound  of  any  kind,  fungous  growths, 
characterized  by  a  raw,  bleeding,  granulating  surface,  with  a  tend- 
ency to  become  pendulous,  may  develop  on  the  ear. 

33071°— 16 23  353 


354  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

Treatment. — The  whole  tumor  or  diseased  structure  should  be  cut 
away,  and  the  wound  treated  daily  with  a  dressing  of  carbolized 
cosmoline  or  turpentine  and  sweet  oil,  1  part  of  the  former  to  4  of 
the  latter. 

FOREIGN  BODIES  IN  THE  EAR. 

Bugs  have  been  known  to  gain  entrance  into  the  ears  of  animals. 
I  once  removed  an  acorn  from  the  ear  of  a  cow  that  had  been  roam- 
ing in  the  woods;  also  pieces  of  wood  from  a  stanchion  may  be 
lodged  accidentally  in  the  ear. 

Symi?toms. — There  is  usually  a  continuous  uneasiness  or  frequent 
shaking  of  the  head,  occasionally  the  manifestation  of  exceeding 
great  pain.  The  animal  may  rub  the  head  and  ear  against  trees  or 
other  objects  in  an  endeavor  to  dislodge  the  offending  body. 

Treatment. — A  careful  examination  reveals  the  cause,  which  may 
be  removed  with  a  pair  of  forceps  or  scraped  out  with  a  hairpin  or 
piece  of  wire  bent  at  one  end.  If  much  inflammation  exists,  the  ear 
may  be  swollen  so  that  the  foreign  substance  is  hidden  from  sight; 
then  a  probe  may  be  inserted  to  feel  for  the  object,  which,  when 
found,  should  be  removed,  even  if  it  becomes  necessary  to  split  the 
ear  at  the  base.  Afterwards  treat  the  ear  with  frequent  warm  water 
fomentations  and  the  injection  of  soapy  water  or  oil  and  water. 

SCURFY  EARS. 

Cattle  are  subject  to  scurfy  ears,  which  may  be  owing  to  a  generally 
morbid  condition  of  the  skin,  or  may  be  confined  to  the  ears  alone. 
The  affected  animal  shows  an  inclination  to  rub  the  ear ;  thick  scales, 
which  sometimes  have  the  appearance  of  hard,  dry,  horny  scales, 
of  scurf  collect  on  it.  This  condition  is  chiefly  caused  by  a  faulty 
secretion  of  the  sebaceous  glands  of  the  ear.  Thoroughly  clean  the 
ear  with  a  stiff  brush,  then  anoint  it,  so  far  as  affected,  with  vaseline 
4  parts  to  1  part  of  white  precipitate  ointment.  If  the  scurfy  ears 
are  only  a  part  of  a  general  scurfiness  of  the  skin,  the  condition  of 
the  animal  needs  attention.     (See  "  Pityriasis,"  p.  327.) 

FROSTBITE. 

It  is  not  uncommon  among  young  cattle  which  are  poorly  nour- 
ished and  exposed  outdoors  to  storms  and  extreme  cold  to  suffer 
frostbite  of  the  ear,  which  may  constitute  actual  freezing  of  the 
part. 

Symptoms. — Frostbite  presents  naturally  every  degree  of  severity 
from  the  mere  chilling  of  the  tip  of  the  ear  to  positive  freezing  and 
death  of  a  portion.  In  a  day  or  two  after  the  freezing  has  occurred 
the  ear  becomes  swollen  and  very  j^ainful ;  the  dead  part  remains 
cold  and  begins  to  shrivel ;  a  line  of  separation  then  forms  between 


DISEASES    OF    THE    EAR,  355 

the  inflamed  and  the  dead  or  dying  portion,  and  finally  the  piece 
destroyed  drops  off,  leaving  a  raw  healing  surface.  When  the  ear 
is  only  slightly  affected  by  the  cold,  an  excoriation  or  peeling  off  of 
superficial  skin  takes  place,  accompanied  with  some  pain  and  itching. 
Treatment. — A  good  liniment  for  frozen  ears  is  a  mixture  of  tur- 
pentine, ammonia,  and  chloroform,  of  each  1  part,  added  to  G  parts 
of  sweet  oil.  Kub  this  on  the  ear  several  times  a  day.  It  will  relieve 
pain  and  stimulate  the  circulation,  thus  favoring  a  recovery  of  the 
injured  structures. 

LACERATIONS  OF  THE  EAR. 

Aggressive  dogs  are  the  most  frequent  cause  of  lacerated  ear,  gen- 
erally leaving  a  torn,  ragged  edge  and  bruised  cartilage. 

If  the  wound  is  extensive,  a  trimming  of  the  ragged  edges  becomes 
necessary;  then  the  edges  should  be  fastened  together  with  silver 
wire,  catgut,  or  strong,  thick,  linen  thread,  taking  a  deep  hold,  and 
pine  tar  applied. 

DISEASE  OF  THE  CARTILAGE  AND  NECROSIS. 

Occasionally  the  cartilages  of  the  ear  become  affected,  usually  the 
result  of  a  deep  bruise ;  pus  forms,  burrows  under  the  skin,  and  may 
find  a  discharge  from  any  part  of  the  ear  more  or  less  distant  from 
the  seat  of  the  disease.  When  the  cartilage  has  been  extensively 
injured,  pieces  of  it  may  become  dead  (necrosed)  and  dissolve,  to  be 
carried  away  with  the  pus,  or  it  may  lead  to  extensive  sloughing  and 
the  formation  of  numerous  running  sores.  In  the  disease  of  the  car- 
tilage there  is  seldom  much  swelling  or  great  pain.  The  discharge  is 
usually  very  offensive,  and  occasionally  streaked  with  blood.  When- 
ever there  is  a  long-continued,  persistent  discharge  from  one  or  more 
openings  in  the  ear,  disease  of  the  cartilage  may  be  suspected. 

Treatment. — The  sinus  formed  by  the  passage  of  matter  should  be 
probed  and  searched  to  the  bottom  for  the  presence  of  a  foreign  sub- 
stance or  the  evidence  of  decaying  cartilage.  When  the  probe  touches 
necrosed  cartilage  it  will  feel  like  a  piece  of  dry  leather  or  partially 
softened  wood.  A  counter  opening  must  then  be  made  at  this  place, 
and  all  diseased  cartilage  cut  away  with  the  knife.  The  subsequent 
treatment  consists  in  keeping  the  artificial  wound  open  for  the  dis- 
charge of  pus,  and  the  injection  of  chlorid  of  zinc,  5  grains  to  the 
ounce  of  water,  once  or  twice  a  day,  until  the  wound  is  healed. 

ENCHONDROMA  OF  THE  EAR. 

This  is  an  excessive  growth  of  cartilage,  found  at  the  base  of  the 
ear  in  the  form  of  a  hard,  painless  tumor,  firmly  attached  to  the 
movable  ear.  The  only  recourse  for  its  removal  is  the  knife  in  the 
hands  of  one  acquainted  with  the  anatomy  of  the  part  involved  in 
the  operation. 


INFECTIOUS  DISEASES  OF  CATTLE. 

Revised  by  John  R.  Mohler,  A.  :M.,  V.  M.  D., 
Assistant  Chief,  Bureau  of  Animal  Industry. 

GENERAL  INTRODUCTION. 

The  importance,  to  the  farmer  and  stock  raiser,  of  a  general  knowl- 
edge of  the  nature  of  infectious  diseases  need  not  be  insisted  on,  as 
it  must  be  evident  to  all  who  have  charge  of  farm  animals.  The 
growing  facilities  for  intercourse  between  one  section  of  a  country 
and  another,  and  betAveen  different  countries,  cause  a  wide  distribu- 
tion of  the  infectious  diseases  once  restricted  to  a  definite  locality. 
Not  only  the  animals  themselves,  but  the  cars,  vessels,  or  other  con- 
veyances in  which  they  are  carried  may  become  agents  for  the  dis- 
semination of  disease.  The  growing  tendency  of  specialization  in 
agriculture,  which  leads  to  the  maintenance  of  large  herds  of  cattle, 
sheep,  and  hogs,  makes  infectious  diseases  more  common  and  more 
dangerous.  Fresh  animals  are  being  continually  introduced  which 
may  be  the  carriers  of  disease  from  other  herds,  and  when  disease  is 
once  brought  into  a  large  herd  the  losses  become  very  high,  because 
it  is  difficult,  if  not  impossible,  to  check  it  after  it  has  once  obtained 
a  foothold. 

These  considerations  make  it  plain  that  only  by  the  most  careful 
supervision  by  intelligent  men  who  understand  the  nature  of  infec- 
tious diseases  and  their  causes  in  a  general  way  can  these  be  kept 
away.  We  must  likewise  consider  how  incomplete  our  knowledge 
concerning  many  diseases  is,  and  probably  will  be  for  some  time  to 
come.  The  suggestions  and  recommendations  offered  by  investi- 
gators, therefore,  may  not  always  be  correct,  and  may  require  fre- 
quent modification  as  our  information  grows  more  comprehensive 
and  exact. 

An  infectious  disease  may  be  defined  as  any  malady  caused  by  the 
introduction,  into  the  body,  of  minute  organisms  of  a  vegetable  or 
animal  nature  which  have  the  power  of  indefinite  multiplication  and 
of  setting  free  certain  peculiar  poisons  which  are  chiefly  responsible 
for  the  morbid  changes. 

This  definition  might  include  diseases  caused  by  certain  animal 
parasites,  such  as  trichinae,  for  example,  which  multiply  in  the  diges- 
tive tract,  but  whose  progeny  is  limited  to  a  single  generation.  By 
common  consent  the  term  "  infectious  "  is  restricted  to  those  diseases 
356 


DISCUSSION    OF    INFECTIOUS    DISEASES.  357 

caused  by  the  invasion  and  multiplication  of  certain  very  minute 
unicellular  organisms  included  under  the  general  classes  of  bacteria 
and  protozoa.  Nearly  all  the  diseases  of  cattle  for  which  a  definite 
cause  has  been  traced  are  from  bacteria.  Among  these  are  tubercu- 
losis, anthrax,  blackleg,  and  tetanus  (or  lockjaw).  Some  diseases, 
such  as  Texas  fever  and  nagana,  are  traceable  to  protozoa,  while 
others,  like  actinomycosis  and  aspergillosis,  are  caused  by  fungi. 
Those  diseases  of  which  the  cause  is  unknown  or  imperfectly  worked 
out  are  pleuropneumonia,  rinderpest,  foot-and-mouth  disease,  rabies, 
cowpox,  malignant  catarrh,  and  dysentery. 

Bacteria  may  be  defined  as  very  minute,  unicellular  organisms  of  a 
plantlike  character.  Their  form  is  very  simple,  as  may  be  seen  from 
an  inspection  of  the  various  species  depicted  on  Plate  XXVIII. 
The  description  of  these  figures  wdll  be  found  on  page  358.  The 
magnification  there  given  will  furnish  the  reader  some  idea  of  their 
very  minute  size.  They  multiply  in  two  ways.  The  bacterium  elon- 
gates and  then  divides  in  the  middle  to  form  2  daughter  cells.  These 
go  through  the  same  process  at  once,  and  thus  -i  cells  are  produced. 
The  division  of  these  leads  to  8,  the  division  of  8  to  16,  and  so 
on  indefinitely.  The  rapidity  with  which  this  multiplication  takes 
place  depends  upon  the  nature  of  the  bacterium.  The  bacillus  of 
tuberculosis  multiplies  very  slowly,  while  that  of  anthrax  does  so 
wath  great  rapidity,  provided  both  are  in  the  most  favorable  condi- 
tion. Another  mode  of  reproduction,  limited  to  certain  classes  of 
bacteria,  consists  in  the  formation  of  a  spore  within  the  body  of  the 
bacterium.  Spore  formation  usually  takes  place  when  the  conditions 
pertaining  to  the  growth  of  the  bacteria  become  unfavorable.  The 
spores  are  much  more  resistant  to  destructive  agents  than  the  bacteria 
which  produced  them.  The  anthrax  spore  may  live  several  years  in 
a  dried  state,  but  the  anthrax  bacillus  perishes  in  a  few  days  under 
like  conditions.  This  matter  will  be  referred  to  again  wlien  we  come 
to  discuss  the  subject  of  disinfection. 

Of  the  protozoa  which  cause  disease  very  little  is  at  present 
known.  One  which  produces  Texas  fever  is  pictured  on  Plate 
XLV,  in  figs.  4  and  5.  These  parasites  have  a  more  complex  life 
histor}^  than  bacteria ;  and  as  they  can  not  be  grown  in  artificial 
media,  their  thorough  investigation  is  at  present  hampered  with 
great  difficulties. 

The  differences  in  the  symptoms  and  lesions  of  the  various  infec- 
tious diseases  are  due  to  differences  in  the  respective  organisms  caus- 
ing them.  Similarly  the  great  differences  observed  in  the  sources 
from  which  animals  become  infected  and  the  manner  in  which  infec- 
tion takes  place  are  due  to  differences  in  the  life  history  of  these 
minute  organisms.  Much  discussion  has  taken  place  of  late  years 
concerning  the  precise  meaning  of  the  words  "  infection  "  and  "  con- 


VARIOUS  BACTERIA  WHICH  PRODUCE  DISEASE  IN  CATTLE. 

DESCKIPTION    OF    PLATE    XXVIII. 

The  bacteria  on  this  plate  are  partly  from  tissues,  partly  from  cultures,  and 
stained  artificially  with  aniline  colors  (fuchsin  or  methylene  blue).  Figs  6  and 
7  are  copied  from  Friinkel  and  Pfeiffer's  atlas.  All  but  fig.  7  are  magnified 
1,000  times;  fig.  7,  500  times. 

Fig.  1.  Bacteria  from  pneumonia  in  cattle.  These  are  also  the  cause  of 
hemorrhagic  septicemia  and  are  closely  related  to  swine-plague  bac- 
teria.    These  bacteria  were  drawn  from  a  piece  of  spleen  pulp  (rabbit). 

Fig.  2.  Micrococci  (streptococcus)  which  produce  inflammation  of  the  lining 
membranes  of  the  abdomen,  thorax,  heart,  brain,  and  joints.  Fre- 
quently associated  with  the  preceding  bacteria  in  abscesses. 

Fig.  3.  Micrococci  (staphylococcus)  which  produce  inflammation  and  sup- 
puration ;  also  pyemia. 

Fig.  4.  Bacilli  of  blackleg.  The  pale  oval  bodies  as  well  as  the  light  spots 
in  one  end  of  the  bacilli  represent  spores. 

Fig.  5.  Bacilli  which  produce  tetanus  or  lockjaw.  The  light  spot  in  the  en- 
larged end  of  each  rod  represents  a  spore. 

Fig.  6.  Bacilli  of  tuberculosis.  Microscopic  sections  of  a  pearly  nodule  from 
the  lining  membrane  of  the  chest  cavity.  The  bacilli  are  stained  red 
and  appear  as  small  straight  rods  within  the  cells  of  the  nodule  or 
tubercle. 

Fig.  7.  Bacilli  of  anthrax.  Bacilli  from  the  spleen  of  a  mouse  inoculated 
with  a  culture.  The  bacilli  were  obtained  from  the  blood  of  a  cow 
which  died  of  anthrax  in  Mississippi.  The  bacilli  appear  as  rods 
stained  blue.  The  round  bodies  are  blood  corpuscles,  also  stained 
artificially. 
358 


Diseases  of  Cattle — U.  S.  Dept.  of  Agr. 


Plate  XXVIII 


Fig.  1 


Fig.  2 


Fig  3. 


Fig.  4 


Fig.  5 


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.  *!' 


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■Kvo^^ 


Fig.  6 


Fig.  7 


4  aCO    BALTIMORE. 


Various  Bacteria  which  Produce  Disease  in  Cattle. 


DISCUSSION    OF    INFECTIOUS   DISEASES.  359 

tagion."  These  words,  however,  are  now  wholly  inadequate  to 
express  the  complex  processes  of  infection,  and  it  may  be  said  that 
each  species  of  bacterium  or  protozoon  has  its  own  peculiar  way  of 
inA'ading  the  animal  body,  differing  more  or  less  from  all  the  rest. 
There  are,  however,  a  few  broad  distinctions  which  may  be  expressed 
with  the  help  of  these  old  terms.  Infection,  as  laid  down  above, 
refers  at  present  in  a  comprehensive  way  to  all  microorganisms 
capable  of  setting  up  disease  in  the  body.  Some  microorganisms  are 
transmitted  directly  from  one  animal  to  another,  and  the  diseases 
produced  may  be  called  contagious.  Among  these  are  included 
pleuropneumonia,  rinderpest,  foot-and-mouth  disease,  rabies,  cowpox, 
and  tuberculosis.  Again,  certain  organisms  are  perhaps  never  trans- 
mitted from  one  animal  to  another,  but  may  come  from  the  soil. 
Among  these  are  tetanus,  blackleg,  anthrax  to  a  large  extent,  and 
perhaps  actinomycosis  in  part.  These  diseases,  according  to  some 
authorities,  may  be  called  miasmatic.  There  is  a  third  class  of  infec- 
tious diseases,  the  specific  bacteria  of  which  are  transmitted  from 
one  animal  to  another,  as  with  the  contagious  diseases,  but  the  bac- 
teria may,  under  certain  favorable  conditions,  find  food  enough  in 
the  soil  and  in  the  surroundings  of  animals  to  multiply  to  some  ex- 
tent after  they  have  left  the  sick  animal  and  before  they  gain  entrance 
into  a  healthy  one. 

This  general  classification  is  subject  to  change  if  we  take  other 
characteristics  into  consideration.  Thus  tuberculosis,  because  of  its 
insidious  beginning  and  slow  course,  would  not  by  many  be  consid- 
ered contagious  in  the  sense  that  foot-and-mouth  disease  is;  yet,  in 
either  case,  the  bacillus  must  come  from  preexisting  disease.  The 
disease  of  rabies,  or  hydrophobia,  is  not  contagious  in  the  sense  that 
rinderpest  is,  because  the  virus  of  rabies  must  be  inoculated  into  a 
wound  before  it  can  take  effect;  yet,  in  both  cases,  the  virus  passes 
without  modification  from  one  animal  to  another,  though  in  different 
ways. 

Again,  all  the  diseases  under  the  second  group,  which  seem  to  come 
from  the  soil  and  from  pastures,  are  in  one  sense  contagious  in  that 
the  virus  may  be  taken  from  a  sick  animal  and  inoculated  directly, 
with  positive  results,  into  a  healthy  animal.  Other  illustrations  may 
be  cited  which  show  that  these  old  terms  are  not  in  themselves  satis- 
factory. There  are  so  many  conditions  which  enter  into  the  process 
of  infection  that  no  single  classification  will  give  a  sufficiently  correct 
or  comprehensive  idea  of  it.  These  statements  will  be  easily  under- 
stood if  the  different  infectious  diseases  in  the  following  pages  are 
studied  wdth  reference  to  the  way  or  ways  in  which  each  disease  may 
be  contracted.  Enough  has  been  said,  therefore,  to  show  that  if  we 
wish  to  make  ourselves  acquainted  with  the  dangers  of  any  given 


360  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

disease,  we  must  study  it  and  not  rely  upon  any  single  work  to  tell 
the  whole  story. 

Infectious  diseases  have,  as  a  general  rule,  a  period  of  incubation, 
which  comprises  the  time  elapsing  between  the  exposure  to  the  infec- 
tion and  the  actual  appearance  of  the  disease.  This  period  varies 
with  the  malady.  The  most  common  s3^mptom  of  this  class  of  dis- 
eases is  fever.  The  severity  of  the  fever  is  measured  by  the  tempera- 
ture of  the  animal ;  this  is  readily  and  accurately  ascertainable  by 
the  clinical  thermometer.  (See  PL  III,  fig.  1.)  The  other  symp- 
toms are  variable  and  depend  upon  the  particular  organ  or  organs 
most  implicated.  Loss  of  appetite,  cessation  of  rumination  and  milk 
secretion,  and  general  dullness  are  symptoms  quite  invariably  pres- 
ent in  most  infectious  diseases. 

During  the  course  of  infectious  diseases  secondary  diseases  or  com- 
plications may  arise  which  are  largely  caused  by  bacteria  other  than 
those  producing  the  original  malady.  These  complications  are  often 
so  severe  as  to  become  fatal.  In  general  it  may  be  stated  that  they 
are  due  to  filthy  surroundings,  and  hence  cleanliness  may  become  an 
important  aid  to  recovery. 

The  treatment  of  infectious  diseases  is  given  under  each  malady  so 
far  as  this  is  allovv^able  or  advisable.  These  diseases  are  not,  as  a  rule, 
amenable  to  treatment.  When  the  symptoms  have  once  appeared  the 
disease  is  liable  to  run  its  course  in  spite  of  treatment,  and  if  it  is  one 
from  which  animals  usually  recover,  all  that  can  be  done  is  to  put 
them  into  the  most  favorable  surroundings.  Many  infectious  dis- 
eases lead  sooner  or  later  to  death,  treatment  is  useless  so  far  as  the 
pick  are  concerned,  and  it  may  be  worse  than  useless  for  those  not 
yet  infected.  All  animals  suffering  with  infectious  diseases  are  more 
or  less  directly  a  menace  to  all  others.  They  represent  for  the  time 
being  manufactories  of  disease  germs,  and  they  are  giving  them 
off  more  or  less  abundantly  during  the  period  of  disease.  They  may 
infect  others  directly  or  they  may  scatter  the  virus  about,  and  the 
surroundings  may  become  a  future  source  of  infection  for  healthy 
animals.  This  leads  us  to  the  subject  of  prevention  as  the  most  im- 
portant of  all  which  claim  our  attention.  In  this  place  only  a  few 
general  remarks  will  suffice  to  bring  the  subject  before  the  reader. 

The  most  important  thing  is  to  keep  disease  away  from  a  herd  or 
farm.  To  do  this  all  sick  or  suspicious  animals  should  be  avoided. 
A  grave  form  of  disease  may  be  introduced  by  apparently  mild  or 
trivial  cases  brought  in  from  without.  It  is  generally  conceded  that 
continual  change  and  movement  of  animals  are  the  most  potent  means 
by  which  infectious  diseases  are  disseminated. 

With  some  cattle  diseases,  such  as  anthrax,  rinderpest,  and  pleuro- 
pneumonia, preventive  inoculation  is  resorted  to  in  some  countries. 
This  may  be  desirable  when  certain  diseases  have  become  established 


DISINFECTION  FOR  CONTAGIOUS  DISEASES.  361 

in  any  locality  so  that  eradication  is  impossible.  It  should  not  be 
practiced  in  territories  where  a  given  disease  nnxj  still  be  extirpated 
by  ordinary  precautions.  Preventive  inoculation  is  applicable  to 
only  a  few  maladies,  and  therefore  its  aid  in  the  control  of  diseases 
is  limited. 

When  an  infectious  disease  has  gained  foothold  in  a  herd  the  course 
to  be  pursued  will  depend  upon  the  nature  of  the  malady.  A  good 
rule  is  to  kill  diseased  animals,  especially  when  the  disease  is  liable 
to  run  a  chronic  course,  as  in  tuberculosis.  The  next  important  step 
is  to  separate  the  well  from  the  sick  by  placing  the  former  on  fresh 
ground.  This  is  rarely  possible;  hence  the  destruction  or  removal 
of  the  sick,  with  thorough  disinfection  of  the  infected  locality,  is  the 
next  thing  to  be  done.  As  to  the  disinfectants  to  be  used,  special 
directions  are  given  under  the  various  diseases,  to  which  the  reader 
is  referred.  Here  we  will  simply  call  attention  briefly  to  the  gen- 
eral subject. 

DISINFECTION  AND  DISINFECTANTS. 

Disinfection  consists  in  the  use  of  certain  substances  which  possess 
the  power  to  destroy  bacteria  or  their  spores,  or  both.  Those  which 
are  cheapest  and  most  available  for  animal  diseases  are  ordinary 
freshly  slaked  lime  or  unslaked  in  powder,  chlorid  of  lime,  crude  car- 
bolic acid,  corrosive  sublimate,  formaldehyde  gas,  formalin,  and 
compound  cresol  solution. 

(1)  Slaked  lime  is  perhaps  the  most  easily  procured,  but  its  disin- 
fecting power  is  limited.  Wliile  it  is  capable  of  destroying  all  bac- 
teria in  their  vegetative  state,  it  is  unable  to  destroy  such  spores  as 
those  of  anthrax  and  blackleg.  It  is  probable,  however,  that  in 
incrusting  spores  it  may  destroy  their  vitality  sooner  or  later.  It  is 
regarded  as  safe  practice  to  use  only  spore-destiwing  substances  for 
the  virus  of  those  diseases  of  which  we  have  no  definite  knowledge. 
Nevertheless,  in  the  absence  of  other  disinfectants,  lime  is  very  useful. 
It  may  be  employed  as  a  whitewash  on  wood  and  stone  and  sprinkled 
as  a  dilute  wash  or  in  powder  over  yards,  manure  heaps,  and  over 
carcasses  before  they  are  buried,  and  over  the  ground  on  which  they 
have  lain  to  prevent  other  animals  from  carrying  the  infection  away. 

(2)  Chlorid  of  lime  is  more  efficient  than  simple  slaked  or  unslaked 
lime,  as  it  destroys  spores.  It  is  the  ordinary  bleaching  pow^der 
of  commerce  and  is  quite  unstable,  hence  old  preparations,  unless 
sealed,  are  of  little  value.  A  5  per  cent  solution  is  sufficiently  strong 
for  all  spore-bearing  bacteria  (3  ounces  in  2  quarts  of  water) .  It  may 
be  efficiently  applied  to  the  walls  and  floor  of  an  infected  stable  by 
mixing  with  limewash  in  the  proportion  of  6  ounces  of  the  lime  to 
each  gallon  of  limewash.  The  ceilings  and  those  portions  of  the 
walls  which  can  not  be  reached  should  be  disinfected  by  means  of 


362  DISEASES  OF   CATTLE. 

chlorin  gas  liberated  from  the  chlorid  of  lime  by  crude  carbolic 
acid.  This  is  accomplished  by  making  a  cone  of  5  or  6  pounds  of 
chlorid  of  lime,  in  the  top  of  Avhich  a  deep  crater  is  made  for  the 
placement  of  from  1  to  2  pints  of  crude  acid.  The  edge  of  the  crater 
is  thereupon  pushed  into  the  fluid,  when  a  lively  reaction  follows. 
The  fumes  of  chlorin  are  strongly  irritating  to  the  respiratory  tract 
and  therefore  all  live  stock  should  be  removed  before  the  work  is 
started.  Owing  to  the  heat  generated,  it  is  advisable  to  place  the 
lime  in  an  iron  crucible  and  to  have  nothing  inflammable  within  a 
radius  of  2  feet.  The  number  and  location  of  these  cones  of  chlorid 
of  lime  depend  on  the  size  and  structure  of  the  building  to  be  dis- 
infected. As  a  rule,  it  may  be  stated  that  chlorin  gas  liberated  from 
the  above-sized  cone  will  be  sufficient  for  disinfecting  5,200  cubic  feet 
of  air  space. 

(3)  Crude  carbolic  acid.  The  ordinary  purified  carbolic  acid  is  too 
expensive  to  be  used  on  a  large  scale,  and  the  crude  produce  is  a  very 
good  substitute.  This  is  made  more  powerful  by  mixing  with  it  an 
equal  volume  of  commercial  sulphuric  acid.  While  the  sulphuric  acid 
is  being  added  to  the  crude  carbolic  acid  much  heat  is  evolved,  and  if 
the  glass  jar  in  which  the  two  are  mixed  is  placed  in  cold  water 
the  resulting  product  is  said  to  have  a  higher  disinfecting  power. 
The  mixture  is  added  to  water  enough  to  make  a  5  per  cent  solution 
(about  7  ounces  to  4  quarts  of  water).  This  is  strong  enough  for 
all  purposes.  It  may  be  kept  in  wood  or  glass,  but  not  in  metal, 
owing  to  the  corroding  action  of  the  acid.  It  should  be  used  freely 
on  woodwork  and  on  infected  flooi^,  and  a  force  pump  of  the  kind 
used  by  orchardists  is  very  convenient  as  a  means  of  applying  the 
disinfectant.  If  the  solution  is  warm  when  applied,  it  will  pene- 
trate the  woodwork  better  than  when  cold,  especially  if  the  spraying 
is  done  during  cold  weather.  The  addition  of  air-slaked  lime  in  any 
quantity  that  will  dissolve  in  water  to  the  above  solution  (say  1| 
pounds  of  lime  to  7  ounces  of  crude  carbolic  acid  to  each  gallon  of 
Avater)  is  preferred  by  many,  as  it  makes  any  neglected  places  at  once 
■visible  and  leaves  cleaner  and  better  air  within  the  buildings.  In 
most  cases  in  which  its  application  becomes  desirable — and  this  rule 
should  apply  to  all  disinfections — the  disinfected  stables,  stalls,  etc., 
should  remain  vacant  as  long  as  possible  before  cattle  are  again 
stabled  therein. 

(4)  Mercuric  chlorid,  or  corrosive  sublimate,  is  a  powerful  disin- 
fectant, but  it  is  likewise  very  poisonous ;  hence  its  uses  are  limited. 
Cattle  are  especially  susceptible  to  its  action  and  caution  must  be 
used  in  its  application.  A  solution  of  one-tenth  of  1  per  cent  is 
usually  sufficient  (1  ounce  to  8  gallons  of  water).  It  should  not  be 
placed  in  Avooden  jiails,  which  would  form  the  tannate  of  mercury, 
a  weak  antiseptic;  nor,  owing  to  its  corrosive  action,  should  expen- 


DISINFECTION  FOR  CONTAGIOUS  DISEASES.  363 

sive  metal  pails  be  used.  Agate  vessels  or  tin  pails  are  to  be  pre- 
ferred. All  solutions  should  be  labeled  "poison,"  and  to  avoid 
accidents  none  should  be  kept  on  hand. 

(5)  Formalin  and  formaldehyde  gas  have  been  found  very  effica- 
cious as  sanitary  agents.  Formalin  is  the  commercial  name  for  the 
40  per  cent  solution  of  formaldehyde  gas  in  water,  and  is  one  of  the 
most  powerful  antiseptic  and  disinfectants  that  we  possess.  Solu- 
tions of  this  strength  are  manufactured  by  different  commercial 
houses  and  sold  by  the  drug  trade  under  the  name  of  "  f  ormalose  " 
and  "  formal."  In  this  connection  it  should  be  mentioned  that  while 
the  40  per  cent  solution  of  formaldehyde  gas  and  formalin  are  ex- 
actly the  same  thing,  the  former  can  be  purchased  at  33  J  to  64  per 
cent  less  than  the  latter.  Formalin,  diluted  with  water  in  the  pro- 
portion of  1  pint  to  30  parts  of  water,  or  4  ounces  to  each  gallon  of 
water,  may  be  applied,  and  it  may  thus  be  used  as  a  wash  or  as 
a  spray  on  all  paints,  metals,  and  woodwork,  as  well  as  on  clothing 
and  other  fabrics,  without  injuring  them.  It  may  also  be  applied 
to  floors,  walls,  and  woodwork  in  whitewash  by  mixing  1  part  to 
30  parts  of  limewash,  or  4  ounces  to  each  gallon  of  limewash. 
Formalin  has  the  appearance  of  water  and  in  the  strong  solu- 
tion is  poisonous,  but  when  diluted  as  recommended  above  it  is  not 
dangerous.  The  fumes  given  off  by  it,  however,  are  very  disagree- 
able and  irritating  to  the  eyes  and  nasal  mucous  membranes.  One 
and  one-half  ounces  of  formalin  added  to  1  gallon  of  water  is  a  valu- 
able agent  for  the  disinfection  of  the  skin  or  septic  wounds,  but  is 
somewhat  painful  and  irritating  to  raw  surfaces. 

Formaldehyde,  is  a  gas  whicii  is  soluble  in  2|  parts  of  water  (40 
parts  of  formaldehyde  gas  to  100  parts  of  water)  ;  this  solution 
constitutes  the  formalin  of  commerce.  The  use  of  formaldehyde  gas 
is  in  most  cases  impracticable  for  stable  disinfection.  In  case  the 
stable  is  not  too  large  and  can  be  made  almost  air-tight  the  genera- 
tion of  formaldehyde  gas,  after  removing  all  the  animals,  will  be 
found  very  serviceable.  It  penetrates  all  parts  of  the  stable^ — the 
walls,  crevices,  floors,  ceiling — and  is  f)robably  the  best  fumigating 
disinfectant  that  we  have. 

Probably  one  of  the  most  simple  and  practical  methods  of  liber- 
ating this  gas  is  by  means  of  the  chemical  reaction  which  takes  place 
when  formalin  is  poured  upon  permanganate  of  potassium.  For 
each  1,000  cubic  feet  of  air  space,  16f  ounces  of  crystallized  or 
powdered  permanganate  of  potassium  is  placed  in  a  wide-surfaced 
pan;  20  ounces  of  formalin  is  then  poured  upon  it,  and  the  stable 
immediately  closed  for  a  period  of  12  hours  or  longer.  This  method 
is  efficient  only  when  it  is  possible  to  seal  tightly  the  place  to  be 
disinfected,  and  should  be  used  only  by  experienced  persons. 


364  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE, 

(6)  Some  coal-tar  products  are  cheap,  effective,  and  easily  applied 
disinfectants,  their  action  being  due  to  the  carbolic  acid  and  creosote 
in  their  composition.  They  may  be  used  in  3  to  5  per  cent  solution. 
As  a  rule  they  form  a  milky  solution  in  water, 

(7)  Compound  solution  of  cresol  (liquor  cresolis  compositus), 
now  recognized  as  an  official  preparation,  is  composed  of-  equal  parts 
of  cresol  and  linseed-oil-potash  soap.  The  mixture  is  a  thick,  dark, 
amber-colored  fluid  which  mixes  readily  with  water  in  all  propor- 
tions to  form  a  clear,  soap  solution.  It  is  an  efficient  disinfectant  in 
a  3  or  4  per  cent  solution,  and  in  this  strength  it  may  be  applied  in 
the  same  manner  as  a  5  per  cent  solution  of  carbolic  acid. 

When  it  is  desired  to  apply  one  of  these  above-mentioned  agents  to 
the  stable  or  barnyard,  a  preliminary  cleaning  up  of  all  debris  and 
litter  is  advisable,  together  with  the  scraping  of  the  floor,  mangers, 
and  walls  of  the  stable  with  hoes;  also  the  removal  of  all  dust  and 
filth.  This  should  be  folloAved  by  the  burning  of  all  such  accumula- 
tions, inasmuch  as  this  material  likewise  contains  the  infectious  prin- 
ciple and  is  best  destroyed  by  heat.  Heat  may  be  applied  to  the 
surface  of  the  affected  pen,  byre,  or  barnyard  by  means  of  a  cyclone 
burner,  which  consists  of  a  tank,  pump,  hose,  and  cyclone  nozzle  for 
spraying  with  paraffin  (gas  oil).  The  latter  is  ejected  in  the  form  of 
spray,  which  when  ignited  gives  a  very  hot  and  effective  flame  to  be 
applied  to  the  infected  ground.  Where  such  burning  is  impracticable 
the  surface  soil  of  the  yard  and  surroundings  should  be  removed  to  a 
depth  of  5  or  6  inches  and  then  placed  in  a  heap  and  thoroughly 
mixed  with  air-slaked  lime.  The  fresh  surface  of  the  soil  thus  ex- 
posed may  then  be  sprinkled  with  the  disinfectant. 

In  addition  to  these  artificial  substances  there  are  several  natural 
sanitary  agents  of  great  importance  as  destroyers  of  virus.  These 
are  cleanliness,  ventilation,  drying,  and  sunshine.  All  virus,  ex- 
cepting such  as  may  live  in  the  soil,  is  killed  sooner  or  later  by  drying 
and  sunshine,  and  the  importance  of  these  factors  in  the  daily  life  of 
animals  need  not  be  insisted  on  here.  Finally,  all  sanitary  measures 
which  contribute  to  the  healthfulness  of  animal  surroundings  are 
directly  or  indirectly  inimical  to  disease  germs,  and  all  carelessness 
in  the  keeping  of  animals  may  be  regarded  as  an  ally  of  these  de- 
structive organisms. 

CONTAGIOUS  PLEUROPNEUMONIA. 

iris,  xxix-xxxii.] 

De-finitiori  and  history. — This  disease  has  been  eradicated  from  the 
United  States,  and  it  is  not  probable  that  it  will  ever  be  seen  in  this 
country  again.    As,  however,  much  interest  was  manifested  in  regard 


CONTAGIOUS    PLEUROPNEUMONIA.  365 

to  it  for  a  number  of  years,  and  as  our  cattle  are  still  prohibited  from 
some  foreign  markets  on  account  of  its  previous  existence  here,  the 
subject  is  treated  at  greater  length  than  would  otherwise  be  necessary. 

The  contagious  pleuropneumonia  of  cattle  is  a  specific,  epizootic 
disease  which  affects  bovine  animals,  and  from  which  other  species 
are  exempt.  It  is  characterized,  when  the  disease  results  from  ex- 
posure in  the  usual  manner,  by  an  inflammation  of  the  lungs  and 
pleurae,  which  is  generally  extensive,  and  which  has  a  tendency  tc 
invade  portions  of  these  organs  not  primarily  affected  and  to  cause 
death  of  the  die-eased  portion  of  the  lung.  This  disease  is  frequently 
called  the  lung  plague,  which  corresponds  with  its  German  name 
of  Lungenseuche.  In  French  it  is  spoken  of  as  the  peripneumonie 
contagieuse. 

The  history  of  the  contagious  pleuropneumonia  of  cattle  can  not  be 
traced  with  any  certainty  to  a  period  earlier  than  the  beginning  of 
the  eighteenth  centur3\  No  doubt  it  existed  and  ravaged  the  herds  of 
Europe  for  many  years  and  perhaps  centuries  before  that  time,  but 
veterinaj-y  knowledge  was  so  limited  that  the  descriptions  of  the 
symptoms  and  post-mortem  appearance  are  too  vague  and  too  limited 
to  admit  of  the  identification  of  the  maladies  to  which  they  refer.  It 
has  been  supposed  b}'  some  writers  that  certain  passages  in  the  writ- 
ings of  Aristotle,  Liv}?^,  and  Virgil  show  the  existence  of  pleuro- 
pneumonia at  the  time  that  their  works  were  composed,  but  their 
references  are  too  indefinite  to  be  seriously  accepted  as  indicating 
this  rather  than  some  other  disease. 

It  seems  quite  plain  that  as  early  as  1713  and  171-1  pleuropneu- 
monia existed  in  Suabia  and  several  Cantons  of  Switzerland.  There 
are  even  clearer  accounts  of  its  prevalence  in  Switzerland  in  1732, 
1743,  and  1765.  In  1769  a  disease  called  murie  was  investigated  in 
Franche-Comte  by  Bourgelat  which  undoubtedly  was  identical  with 
the  pleuropneumonia  of  to-da3\  From  that  period  we  have  frequent 
and  well-authenticated  accounts  of  its  existence  in  various  parts  of 
Europe.  During  the  period  from  1790  to  1812  it  was  spread  through- 
out a  large  portion  of  the  Continent  of  Europe  by  the  cattle  driven 
for  the  subsistence  of  the  armies,  which  marched  and  countermarched 
in  all  directions.  It  was  generally  prevalent  in  Italy  in  1800.  It 
appears  to  have  been  unknown,  however,  in  the  Department  of  the 
Nord,  France,  until  1826,  but  during  the  years  from  1820  to  1840  it 
penetrated  into  most  parts  of  that  country.  During  the  same  period 
it  w^as  introduced  into  and  allowed  to  spread  over  Belgium  and 
Holland. 

This  contagion  is  said  to  have  been  carried  to  Ireland  from  Hol- 
land in  1839,  and  is  reported  as  existing  in  England  in  1842.  The 
disease  was  brought  to  the  United  States  at  several  different  times. 
Probablv  its  first  introduction  was  with  a  diseased  cow  sold  in  Brook- 


366  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

lyn,  N.  Y.,  in  1843.     It  came  to  New  Jersey  by  importing  affected 
animals  in  1847.    Massachusetts  was  infected  in  the  same  way  in  1859. 

South  Africa  was  infected  by  a  bull  brought  from  Holland  in  1854, 
and  Australia  likewise  received  the  contagion  with  an  English  cow  in 
1858.  It  is  also  reported  as  existing  in  various  parts  of  the  Continent 
of  Asia,  but  the  time  of  its  first  appearance  and  the  extent  of  its  dis- 
tribution are  very  uncertain. 

Some  countries,  such  as  Norway,  Sweden,  and  Denmark,  which  had 
been  infected  for  only  a  short  time,  have  succeeded  in  eradicating  the 
disease  without  much  difficulty  by  slaughtering  all  affected  and  ex- 
posed animals.  Other  countries  long  infected  and  in  which  the  con- 
tagion was  thoroughly  established,  like  Australia,  South  Africa, 
Italy,  France,  Belgium,  and  parts  of  Germany,  have  labored  long, 
in  some  cases  making  no  progress  and  in  others  being  only  partially 
successful.  Holland  was  one  of  the  first  of  the  thoroughly  infected 
countries  to  free  itself  from  the  contagion. 

In  the  United  States,  Massachusetts  eradicated  pleuropneumonia 
during  the  period  from  1860  to  1866.  New  York  and  New  Jersey 
made  an  attempt  to  eradicate  it  in  1879,  but  were  not  successful. 
Late  in  1883  the  contagion  was  carried  to  Ohio,  probably  by  Jersey 
cattle  purchased  in  the  vicinity  of  Baltimore,  Md.,  to  which  place  it 
had  extended  before  1868.  From  the  herd  then  infected  it  was 
spread  by  the  sale  of  cattle  during  1884  to  a  limited  number  of  herds 
in  Illinois,  to  one  herd  in  Missouri,  and  to  two  in  Kentucky.  The 
alarm  caused  among  the  stock  owners  of  the  United  States  by  this 
widespread  dissemination  of  a  disease  so  much  dreaded  led  to  the 
adoption  of  active  measures  for  its  control  and  eradication.  By  co- 
operation between  the  United  States  Department  of  Agriculture  and 
the  authorities  of  the  affected  States  it  was  found  possible  to  prevent 
the  further  spread  of  the  contagion  and  to  eradicate  it  after  a  few 
months'  delay. 

In  1886  pleuropneumonia  was  discovered  in  some  of  the  large  dis- 
tillery stables  of  Chicago  and  among  cows  on  neighboring  lots.  This 
led  to  renewed  efforts  for  the  complete  extirpation  of  this  disease 
from  the  country.  Congress  in  1887  enlarged  the  appropriation 
available  for  this  purpose  and  gave  more  extended  authority.  Dur- 
ing the  same  year  the  disease  was  stamped  out  of  Chicago,  and  has 
not  since  appeared  in  any  district  west  of  the  Allegheny  Mountains. 

The  work  of  eradication  was  at  the  same  time  commenced  in  all 
the  infected  States.  Before  the  end  of  the  year  1889  Pennsylvania, 
Delawiire,  Maryland,  the  District  of  Columbia,  and  Virginia  had  been 
freed  from  the  disease.  More  difficulties,  however,  were  encountered 
in  the  States  of  New  York  and  New  Jersey,  on  account  of  the  larger 
territory  infected  and  the  density  of  the  population.  The  long  strug- 
gle was  successful,  however,  and  the  last  animal  in  which  the  disease 


CONTAGIOUS   PLEUROPNEUMONIA.  367 

appeared  in  the  State  of  New  York  was  slaughtered  early  in  1891, 
and  the  last  one  affected  in  New  Jersey  met  the  same  fate  early  in 
the  spring  of  1892. 

During  these  same  years  a  supreme  effort  had  been  made  to  stamp 
out  this  lung  plague  from  Great  Britain.  From  the  official  reports 
it  appears  that  the  number  of  infected  districts  and  of  diseased  ani- 
mals had  rapidly  diminished,  but  it  was  not  until  1898  that  the  in- 
fection was  finally  eradicated. 

The  other  infected  European  countries,  though  they  maintain  a 
veterinary  sanitary  service,  are  not  making  satisfactory  progress  in 
eradicating  the  disease.  This  is  owing  partly  to  delays  in  carrying 
out  the  provisions  of  the  laws  and  partly  to  mistaken  ideas  as  to  the 
measures  which  are  necessary  to  accomplish  the  object.  The  United 
States  was  the  last  of  the  countries  having  old  infected  districts 
which  undertook  to  stamp  out  this  contagion,  and,  except  Holland, 
it  was  the  first  to  reach  success. 

The  cause  {etiology)  of  pleuropneimionia. — This  is  a  contagious 
disease,  and  arises  only  by  contagion  from  a  previously  affected 
animal ;  consequently  it  can  never  be  seen  here  except  as  the  result  of 
importing  affected  animals  from  the  Old  World.  When  thoroughly 
stamped  out  it  does'not  reappear;  and  if  imported  animals  continue 
to  be  properly  inspected  and  quarantined,  we  have  every  reason  to 
believe  that  pleuropneumonia  will  never  again  be  seen  in  this 
country. 

The  exact  nature  of  the  virus  or  contagion  of  lung  plague  has 
never  been  determined.  Various  investigators  have  from  time  to 
time  claimed  the  discovery  of  the  specific  organism  of  the  disease, 
but  it  was  not  until  1898  that  Nocard  and  Roux,  by  an  ingenious 
method  of  cultivation,  succeeded  in  obtaining  a  very  feeble  growth 
of  an  exceedingly  minute  microorganism.  With  these  cultures  the 
disease  was  produced  in  cattle. 

Some  investigators  and  writers  are  of  the  opinion  that  the  disease 
can  be  contracted  only  by  an  animal  coming  near  enough  to  a  living 
diseased  one  to  receive  the  contagion  directly  from  it.  They  hold 
that  the  contagion  is  expired  with  the  air  from  the  affected  lungs. 
and  that  it  must  be  almost  immediately  inspired  by  another  animal 
in  order  to  produce  the  disease.  Some  experimental  attempts  to 
infect  animals  by  placing  them  in  stables  where  diseased  animals 
have  been,  and  by  placing  the  diseased  lungs  of  slaughtered  animals 
in  their  feeding  troughs  have  failed,  and,  consequently,  apparently 
confirm  this  view. 

On  the  other  hand,  it  is  known  that  the  serum  from  affected  lungs 
retains  its  virulence  and  may  be  used  successfully  for  inoculation 
weeks  or  months  after  the  death  of  the  animal  from  which  it  was 
taken.    This  is  particularly  the  case  when  this  liquid  is  hermetically 


CONTAGIOUS  PLEUROPNEUMONIA. 

DESCBIPTIOX    OF   PLATES. 

Plate  XXIX.  Upper  or  dorsal  surface  of  the  lungs  of  the  ox,  reduced  to  one- 
twelfth  of  the  natural  size:  a,  a',  the  right  and  left  principal  lobes. 
These  are  the  largest  and  are  situated  posteriorly,  resting  upon  the 
diaphragm;  b,  b',  the  ventral  lobes,  situated  between  the  principal 
lobes;  and  c,  c',  c"  the  most  anterior,  or  cephalic,  lobes.  The  right 
anterior  is  divided  into  two  lobes  (c,  c'),  the  left  is  single  (c")  ; 
(J,  trachea,  or  A\'indpipe. 

In  the  majority  of  the  lungs  examined  in  the  laboratory  of  the 
bureau  which  were  affected  with  contagious  pleuropneumonia  the  prin- 
cipal lobes  (a,  a')  were  primarily  affected. 

Plate  XXX.  Bronchopnumonia.  The  ventral  or  middle  lobe  of  the  right  lung 
affected  with  collapse  and  beginning  bronchopneumonia.  The  light 
yellowish  portions  represent  healthy  lung  tissue ;  the  red  represents 
the  disease.  It  will  be  noticed  that  the  lines  between  the  lobules  are 
quite  faint,  indicating  little  or  no  inflammation  of  the  connective  tissue 
between  the  lobules.  The  healthy  lung  tissue  is  seen  to  be  raised  above 
the  level  of  the  diseased  portion.  In  contagious  pleuropneumonia  the 
exact  reverse  is  the  case,  the  diseased  portions  being  very  much  larger 
than  the  healthy. 

Plate  XXXI.  Contagious  pleuropneumonia.  Appearance  of  a  cow's  lung  af- 
fected with  contagious  pleuropneumonia  when  sections  or  slices  are 
made  of  it  and  cut  surfaces  examined. 
Fig.  1.  Transverse  section  through  the  right  principal  lobe  in  a  case  of 
acute  pleuropneumonia.  The  area  drawn  includes  the  air  tubes,  veins, 
and  arteries,  and  illustrates  the  great  thickening  of  the  interlobular 
connective  tissue  into  broad  whitish  bands  and  of  the  walls  of  the  air 
tubes,  veins,  and  arteries :  «,  air  tube  cut  obliquely ;  a',  air  tube  cut 
directly  across ;  h,  arteries  cut  across ;  c,  large  vein  completely  occluded 
by  a  thrombus  or  plug  formed  during  life.  The  great  thickening  of 
the  walls  of  the  artery  and  vein  in  this  disease  is  especially  brought 
out  by  stating  that  in  the  healthy  lung  they  are  so  thin  as  to  be  easily 
overlooked. 
Fig.  2.  Transverse  section  of  the  principal  lobe  in  a  case  of  acute  pleuro- 
pneumonia, illustrating  the  different  kinds  of  hepatization  or  consolida- 
tion of  the  lung.  These  are  indicated  by  the  different  colors  from 
dark  red  to  reddish  yellow.  This  variation  of  color  is  regarded  by 
some  as  the  real  marbling  characteristic  of  pleuropneumonia,  w^hile  the 
whitish  bands  penetrating  the  lung  tissue  in  all  directions  constitute 
the  true  marbling  according  to  other  observers. 

Plate  XXXII.  Contagious  pleuropneumonia.  This  illustrates  what  are  called 
infarctions.  The  right  half  of  the  figure  shows  neariy  normal  lung 
tissue.  The  left  represents  a  blackish  mass,  in  which  the  lung  tissue 
is  filled  with  blood  and  solidified.  This  is  caused  by  the  plugging  of 
the  vein  carrying  away  the  blood  from  this  portion.  The  heart  forces 
the  blood  through  the  artery  into  the  ti.ssue  at  considerable  pressure, 
but  owing  to  the  fact  that  its  return  is  prevented,  the  minute  blood 
vessels  rupture  and  the  air  vesicles  become  distended  with  blood,  which 
coagulates  and  causes  the  firmness  of  the  tissue. 
368 


Diseases  of  Cattle — U.  S.  Dept.  of  Agr. 


Plate  XXIX. 


AhOENatCO   BALTIMORE. 


Upper  or  Dorsal  Surface  of  the  Lungs  of  the  Ox. 

(rj  NATURAL  SIZE.) 


Diseases  of  Cattle — U.  S.  Dept    of  Agr. 


Plate  XXX. 


t.HOeNftCO    BALTIMORE, 


BRONCHO-PNeUMONIA. 


Diseases  of  Cattle— U.  S.  Dept.  of  Agr. 


Plate  XXXI 


'/X 


Fig.  1 


Fig.  2 

Contagious  Pleuro-Pneumonia. 


Diseases  of  Cattle— U    S.  Dept.  of  Agr 


Plate  XXXII. 


CONTAGIOUS    PLEUROPNEUMONIA.  369 

sealed  in  glass  tubes.  Other  investigators  state  that  they  have  suc- 
cessfully infected  cattle  by  placing,  in  the  nostrils,  sponges  or  pledg- 
ets of  cotton  saturated  with  such  serum.  Cattle  have  also,  accord- 
ing to  the  best  evidence  obtainable,  been  infected  from  the  clothing 
of  attendants,  from  horns  used  in  drenching,  and  from  smelling 
about  Avagons  which  have  been  used  to  transport  affected  carcasses. 
In  the  Avork  of  eradicating  pleuropneumonia  from  the  United  States 
many  stables  were  found  in  which  the  disease  would  appear  and 
reappear  after  the  slaughter  of  affected  herds,  and  in  spite  of  any 
precautions  which  Avere  adopted.  These  Avere  ahvays  old  stables, 
with  woodwork  in  a  decaying  condition  and  Avith  flooi^s  underlaid 
Avith  filth  Avhich  could  not  be  thoroughly  removed  or  disinfected. 
In  every  one  of  these  cases  the  destruction  of  the  stable,  the  burning 
of  the  lumber  of  Avhich  it  Avas  constructed,  the  removal  of  the  ac- 
cumulations beneath  the  floors,  and  thorough  disinfection,  prevented 
the  recurrence  of  the  plague  in  neAV  stables  built  upon  the  same 
premises.  This  experience  conclusively  shoAvs  that  under  certain 
conditions,  at  least,  stables  may  retain  the  infection  for  a  consider- 
able time,  and  that  when  restocked  the  disease  may  break  out  again 
from  such  infection. 

As  a  rule,  how^cA^er,  the  disease  is  acquired  by  a  healthy  animal 
being  near  an  affected  one  and  receiving  the  contagion  direct. 
Affected  animals  may  giA'e  off  the  contagion  in  the  early  stages  of  the 
disease  before  the  symptoms  are  apparent  to  the  obserA'er ;  also,  they 
may  retain  this  infectious  character,  if  they  survive  the  attack,  for 
six  months  and  probably  for  a  year  after  all  symptoms  of  the  dis- 
ease haA^e  disappeared. 

Incuhation. — The  time  Avhich  elapses  between  exposure  to  the  con- 
tagion of  pleuropnemnonia  and  the  first  appearance  of  the  symptoms 
of  this  disease  varies  greatly  with  different  individuals  and  with  dif- 
ferent outbreaks  of  the  disease.  Ordinarily  the  symptoms  of  disease 
make  their  appearance  Avithin  three  to  six  weeks  after  exposure; 
they  may  be  observed,  hoAvever,  Avithin  tAvo  weeks  or  they  may  not 
become  apparent  until  nearly  or  quite  three  months.  It  is  this  long 
period  of  incubation  and  the  great  length  of  time  that  an  animal 
ma}^  disseminate  the  contagion  after  apparent  recoA^ery  Avhich  give 
the  plague  that  insidious  character  so  often  spoken  of,  and  which 
greatly  increase  the  difficulties  of  eradication. 

Syrnqytoms. — The  symptoms  are  such  as  w^ould  be  expected  Avith 
inflammation  of  the  lungs  and  pleurae,  but  they  vary  considerably, 
according  to  the  type  Avhich  the  disease  manifests.  If  the  attack  is 
an  acute  one,  as  is  frequently  seen  in  hot  Aveather,  the  symptoms 
appear  suddenly;  the  breathing  becomes  rapid  and  difficult,  the  ani- 
mal grunts  or  moans  Avith  each  expiration,  the  shoulders  stand  out 
from  the  chest,  the  head  is  extended  on  the  neck,  the  back  is  arched, 
33071°— 16 24 


370  DISEASES    OF   CATTLE. 

the  temperature  is  104°  to  107°  F.,  the  milk  secretion  is  suspended, 
there  is  no  appetite,  rumination  is  stopped,  the  animal  may  bloat  and 
later  be  affected  with  a  severe  diarrhea.  Such  cases  are  .generally 
fatal  in  7  to  20  days. 

Yery  often  the  attack  comes  on  slowly  and  the  symptoms  are  much 
less  clear.  In  the  mildest  cases  there  is  a  cough  for  a  week  or  two, 
but  no  appreciable  loss  of  appetite  or  elevation  of  temperature.  The 
lungs  are  but  slightly  affected  and  recovery  soon  follows.  Such 
animals  may  disseminate  the  contagion  for  a  long  time  without  being 
suspected,  and  for  that  reason  are  the  most  dangerous  of  all. 

A  more  severe  type  of  the  plague  is  the  most  frequently  seen.  In 
these  cases  the  cough  is  frequent,  more  or  less  painful,  the  back 
somewhat  arched,  and  the  milk  secretion  diminished.  The  promi- 
nence of  these  symptoms  increases,  the  appetite  is  affected,  the  ani- 
mal loses  flesh,  the  breathing  becomes  more  rapid,  the  cough  more 
painful,  pressure  of  the  fingers  between  the  ribs  shows  tenderness,  the 
hair  loses  its  gloss  and  stands  erect,  the  skin  becomes  adherent,  little, 
if  any,  milk  is  secreted,  and  the  temperature  rises,  varying  in  differ- 
ent animals  from  103°  to  107°  F.  Animals  thus  affected  may  con- 
tinue to  grow  worse  and  die  in  from  three  to  eight  weeks,  or  they  may 
after  a  time  begin  to  improve  and  make  an  apparent  recovery.  The 
inflammation  of  the  lung  does  not,  as  a  rule,  subside  and  the  organ 
return  to  its  normal  condition,  as  is  the  case  in  ordinary  pneumonia, 
but  with  this  dise&se  the  life  of  the  affected  portion  of  the  lung  is 
destroyed,  the  tissue  dies,  and  a  fibrous  wall  is  formed  around  it  to 
shut  it  away  from  the  living  parts.  The  tissue,  thus  encysted,  gradu- 
ally softens,  becomes  disintegrated,  and  breaks  down  into  pus.  The 
recovery,  therefore,  is  not  complete;  it  is  only  apparent  and  partial. 

To  those  accustomed  to  examining  the  lungs  of  cattle,  other  and 
extremely  important  symptoms  may  be  apparent  during  the  course  of 
the  disease.  By  applying  the  ear  over  the  walls  of  the  chest  an  area 
of  a  certain  extent  may  be  found  in  which  the  natural  breathing 
sound  is  diminished  or  entirely  lost.  This  represents  the  diseased 
portion  of  the  lungs.  In  other  cases  a  loud  blowing  sound  ma}'  be 
heard,  quite  different  from  any  sound  produced  when  the  lung  is  in 
a  healthy  condition.  In  some  cases  crepitation  is  heard  near  the 
border  line  of  the  diseased  area  and  friction  sounds  produced  by  the 
roughened  pleura ;  these  can  be  appreciated,  however,  only  by  those 
whose  ears  have  been  trained  to  distinguish  between  the  different 
sounds  which  reach  the  ear  when  applied  to  the  chest  wall.  By  per- 
cussion— that  is,  by  pressing  the  fingers  of  the  left  hand  firmly  against 
the  wall  of  the  chest  and  tapping  uj^on  the  middle  finger  with  the 
ends  of  the  fingers  of  the  right  hand — an  area  of  dullness  may  be 
discovered  corresponding  to  the  portion  from  which  the  respiratory 
murmur  has  disappeared.    This  loss  of  respiration  detected  by  auscul- 


CONTAGIOUS    PLEUROPNEUMONIA.  371 

tation,  and  the  dullness  brought  out  by  percussion,  are  the  most  im- 
portant evidences  of  an  inflamed  or  consolidated  lung. 

Seriously  affected  animals  remain  standing  if  they  have  sufficient 
strength,  but  those  which  lie  down  always  lie  on  the  affected  side. 

The  proportion  of  animals  which  become  affected  after  being  ex- 
posed varies  according  to  the  virulence  of  the  outbreak,  the  sus- 
ceptibility of  the  animals,  and  the  length  of  time  during  which  ex- 
posure is  continued.  Sometimes  not  more  than  15,  20,  or  30  per  cent 
will  contract  the  disease  when  a  large  herd  is  exposed ;  on  the  other 
hand,  however,  80  or  90  per  cent  may  be  affected.  The  proportion  of 
cases  in  which  the  disease  proves  fatal  also  varies  greatly — it  may  not 
exceed  10  and  it  may  reach  50  per  cent.  In  general,  it  may  be  said 
that  about  40  per  cent  of  the  exposed  animals  will  contract  the  dis- 
ease and  about  one-half  of  these  cases  will  prove  fatal. 

P ost-TTiortenth  appearances. — Owing  to  the  complexity  of  the  struc- 
ture of  the  lung  tissue,  its  ramifications  of  bronchial  tubes  and  blood 
vessels,  and  its  abundant  supply  of  lymphatics,  the  pathological 
changes  in  pleuropneumonia  are  interpreted  with  great  difficulty. 
Furthermore,  there  are  certain  kinds  of  pneumonia  which  present 
some  resemblances  to  pleuropneumonia  and  which  may  therefore  be 
confused  with  it  in  some  of  its  phases. 

If  Ave  kill  an  animal  affected  with  acute  pleuropneumonia  and  ex- 
amine the  cavity  of  the  chest  and  lungs,  the  following  appearances 
will  be  noted : 

The  thorax  may  contain  more  or  less  serum,  which  may  be  clear  or 
clouded.  There  may  be  firm  adhesions  of  different  parts  of  the  lungs 
to  the  chest  wall,  the  extent  of  which  depends  on  the  stage  and 
severity  of  the  disease.  The  diseased  lobes  are  unusually  large  and 
exceedingly  firm  to  the  touch.  The  weight  of  a  single  large  lobe  may 
reach  40  pounds.  Usually  only  one  side  is  affected,  often  but  a  single 
lobe,  and  this  most  commonly  the  large  or  principle  lobe.  The  pleura 
may  be  covered  with  one  or  more  layers  of  a  firm,  elastic,  grayish 
membrane,  which  varies  in  thickness  and  which  sometimes  may  be 
pulled  away  entirely.  Sometimes  it  is  absent.  The  pleura,  however, 
is  opaque  and  apparently  very  much  thickened.  This  is  owing  to  the 
diseased  condition  of  the  connective  tissue  beneath  the  pleura,  as 
will  be  explained  later.  When  an  affected  lobe  is  cut  through  at 
right  angles  to  its  long  diameter,  the  cut  surface  presents  a  variety 
of  interesting  changes.  In  the  first  place  the  spaces  between  the 
small  subdiA^sions  of  the  lung  (the  lobules),  which  in  the  healthy 
lung  are  barely  visible,  are  distended  with  a  j^ellowish- white,  usually 
quite  firm,  substance,  which  is  coagulated  fibrin.  The  cut  surface 
thus  appears  divided  into  small  fields  by  yellowish-white  bands  of 
varying  thickness  running  in  various  directions  through  the  lung  tis- 
sue and  beneath  the  pleura.     (PL  XXXI.)     These  bands  may  appear 


372  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

honeycombed  and  the  spaces  filled  v.ith  yellowish  fluid  (serum)  or 
they  may  be  uniformly  solid.  It  will  also  be  noticed  that  the  space 
immediately  outside  of  and  around  the  artery,  vein,  and  air  tube  is 
similarly  broadened  by  fibrinous  deposits.  Some  authorities  look 
ui^on  these  bands  as  constituting  the  so-called  "  marbling  "  of  j^leuro- 
pneumonia. 

In  addition  to  these  changes  which  have  taken  place  in  the  connec- 
tive tissue  between  the  lobules,  the  lung  tissue  itself  may  be  mark- 
edly altered.  Certain  areas  of  the  cut  surface  may  be  very  firm  in 
texture  and  of  a  brownish-red  color.  The  cut  surface  is  granular  or 
roughened,  not  smooth  to  the  eye.  Other  areas  equally  firm  may  be 
more  grayish  yellow  and  still  others  may  be  blackish.  (PI. 
XXXII.)  Besides  these  areas  which  represent  solidified  (hepatized) 
lung  tissue  there  may  be  others  which  approach  the  normal  lung  tis- 
sue in  color,  are  soft,  and  float  in  water.  From  these  a  milky, 
purulent  fluid  may  often  be  expressed.  These  different  shades  are 
represented  in  Plate  XXXI,  fig.  2,  within  a  small  compass.  Some 
authorities  are  inclined  to  consider  these  variations  in  color  on  the 
same  cut  surface  as  the  co-called  marbling  of  pleuropneumonia.  It 
matters  not  whether  we  regard  the  bands  between  the  lobules  or  the 
varying  shades  of  the  lobules  themselves  as  the  marbling,  provided 
either  or  both  are  peculiar  to  contagious  pleuropneumonia.  If  we 
examine  the  blood  A'essels  appearing  on  such  cut  surface  they  will 
usually  be  found  plugged  Avithin  the  firmly  hepatized  regions.  The 
artery  contains  a  dark,  soft,  removable  clot,  the  vein  a  grayish-pink, 
granular,  fragile  plug  (thrombus),  which  adheres  firmly  to  the  wall 
of  the  vein,  and  if  this  is  slit  open,  indications  of  a  diseased  condition 
of  the  inner  coat  will  be  readily  detected.  When  large  regions  of  the 
lung  tissues  are  hepatized,  the  main  air  tube  and  its  branches  are 
usually  filled  Avith  grayish,  cylindrical  branched  masses  of  fibrin  that 
are  easily  removed,  as  they  do  not  adhere  to  the  mucous  membrane. 

The  views  of  pathologists  differ  as  to  the  nature  of  the  earliest 
changes  in  pleuropneumonia,  and  it  is  not  within  the  scope  of  this 
work  to  present  controverted  or  imperfectly  developed  theories.  In 
the  foregoing  description  we  have  taken  as  a  type  the  acute  pleuro- 
pneumonia in  its  fully  developed  phase,  which  can  scarcely  be  mis- 
taken for  any  other  disease.  We  have  seen  that  there  is  an  inflam- 
matory condition  of  the  connective  tissue  between  the  lobules,  result- 
ing in  the  exudation  of  coagulable  lymph.  This  inflammation  is 
equally  marked  around  the  blood  vessels  and  air  tubes.  It  leads  to 
inflammatory  changes  in  the  inner  Avail  of  the  veins,  and  these  cause 
the  deposition  of  thrombi  or  plugs  in  the  vessels,  Avhich  prevent  the 
return  of  the  blood.  The  blood  pumped  into  the  lung  tissue  through 
the  artery,  but  unable  to  get  out  by  Avay  of  the  vein,  leaves  the  mesh- 
Avork  of  capillaries  around  the  air  vesicles,  enters  the  latter,  and  pro- 


CONTAGIOUS.  PLEUROPNEUMONIA.  373 

(luces  the  firm,  hepatized  condition  so  characteristic  of  this  disease. 
If  we  bear  in  mind  that  the  veins  in  different  parts  of  the  lung  tissue 
are  plugged  at  different  times,  and  that,  therefore,  the  affected  re- 
gions are  in  different  stages  of  disease,  it  will  be  easily  understood 
how  the  different  shades  of  color  from  dark  red  to  grayish  or 
yellowish  red  are  produced. 

The  complete  plugging  of  tlie  veins  may  lead  to  the  death  of  cir- 
cumscribed masses  of  lung  tissue.  A  line  of  separation  forms  between 
the  living  and  the  dead  tissue  and  a  thick  cyst  wall  of  fibrous  tissue 
forms  around  the  latter.  The  dead  tissue  for  a  time  preserves  the 
appearance  of  lung  tissue,  then  undergoes  disintegration  and  lique- 
faction. The  softened  mass  is  finally  absorbed,  and  the  walls  of  the 
cyst,  Or  capsule  around  it,  gradually  collapse  and  form  a  cicatrix. 
This  favorable  termination  takes  place  only  when  the  dead  mass  is 
not  too  large.  It  may,  however,  involve  over  half  of  one  of  the 
large  lobes.  Under  such  circumstances  recovery  is  improbable.  A 
more  favorable  termination  is  the  abundant  growth  of  fibrous  tissue 
around  and  into  the  hepatized  masses.  The  formation  of  fibrous 
tissue  may  extend  to  the  pleura,  or  lung  covering,  and  cause  firm 
adhesion  of  the  lungs  to  the  chest  wall  and  to  the  pericardium,  or 
heart  case. 

The  same  peculiar,  inflammatory  changes  which  take  place  between 
the  lobules  of  the  lung  and  around  the  bronchi  and  vessels  may  invade 
the  pleural  cavity,  cause  extensive  membranous  and  spongy  deposits 
on  the  pleura  and  firm  deposits  around  the  heart  and  large  arteries, 
the  gullet,  and  windpipe. 

These  are  the  main  features  of  the  lung  disease  caused  by  con- 
tagious pleuropneumonia.  In  the  typical,  acute  cases  there  are  a 
a  sufficient  number  of  peculiarities  to  enable  us  to  make  a  positive 
diagnosis.  There  are,  however,  many  cases  in  which  the  disease  is 
restricted  to  small  areas,  or  to  the  interlobular  tissue,  or  in  which 
the  changes  are  still  imperfectly  developed,  or  else  so  far  advanced 
that  doubts  may  arise  as  to  the  true  nature  of  the  affection.  In 
such  cases  all  obtainable  facts,  including  the  historj^  of  the  case,  the 
symptoms  during  life,  and  the  pathological  changes  observed  on 
post-mortem  examination  must  be  taken  into  consideration.  Only 
one  who  has  made  a  careful  stud}^  of  the  disease  is  fitted  to  decide 
in  such  cases. 

Other  kinds  of  lung  disease,  because  of  certain  features  common 
to  most  lung  diseases  of  cattle,  may  be  confounded  with  pleuro- 
pneumonia. The  inflammation  of  the  connective  tissue  between  the 
lobules  is  not  infrequently  observed  in  so-called  interstitial  pneu- 
monia and  may  lead  to  the  formation  of  whitish  bands  intersecting 
the  lung  tissues  in  various  directions.  On  the  cut  surface  these 
bands  may  give  rise  to  a  decidedly  marbled  appearance.     Again,  in 


374  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

traumatic  pneumonia,  caused,  as  its  name  implies,  by  the  entrance 
of  foreign  bodies  into  the  lung  tissue,  generally  from  the  paunch, 
the  connective  tissue  around  the  place  of  disease  becomes  inflamed 
and  thickened,  and  the  disease  itself  may  simulate  pleuropneumonia 
in  its  retrogressiA'e  stages  Avhen  it  is  confined  to  a  small  portion  of 
lung  tissue.  The  filling  up  of  the  interlobular  spaces  with  fibrin 
and  connective  tissue  of  inflammatory  origin  is  not  thus  limited  to 
pleuropneumonia,  but  may  appear  in  a  marked  degree  in  other  lung 
diseases.  It  must  not  be  inferred  from  this  statement  that  these 
interlobular  changes  are  necessarily  the  same  as  those  in  pleuro- 
pneumonia, although  to  the  naked  eye  they  may  appear  the  same. 
We  simply  note  their  presence  without  discussing  their  nature. 

In  general,  the  distinction  betAveen  pleuropneumonia  and  broncho- 
pneumonia is  not  difficult  to  make.  In  the  latter  disease  the  pneu- 
monia generally  invades  certain  lobes.  The  disease  attacks  the  smaller 
lobes  in  their  lowest  portions  first  and  gradually  extends  upward,  i.  e., 
toward  the  root  of  the  lung  or  the  back  of  the  animal  and  backward 
into  the  large  principal  lobes.  Again,  both  lungs  in  advanced  cases 
are  often  symmetrically  affected.  In  contagious  pleuropneumonia 
the  large  principal  lobe  of  one  side  is  most  frequently  affected,  and  a 
symmetrical  disease  of  both  lungs  is  very  rare,  if,  in  fact,  it  has  ever 
been  observed.  The  lung  tissue  in  bronchopneumonia  is  not  enlarged, 
but  rather  more  contracted  than  the  normal  tissue  around  it.  This  is 
well  illustrated  in  Plate  XXX.  Normal,  air-containing  lobules  may 
be  scattered  among  and  around  the  hepatized  portion  in  an  irregular 
manner.  In  pleuropneumonia  the  diseased  and  healthy  portions  are 
either  sharply  divided  off,  one  from  the  other,  or  else  they  shade  into 
each  other  by  intermediate  stages. 

The  hepatized  lung  tissue  in  bronchopneumonia  when  the  cut  sur- 
face is  examined  is  usually  of  a  more  or  less  dark  flesh  color  with 
paler  grayish-yellow  dots  regularly  interspersed,  giving  it  a  peculiar, 
mottled  appearance.  In  the  more  advanced  stages  it  becomes  more 
firm,  and  may  contain  nodular  and  firmer  masses  disseminated 
through  it.  The  air  tubes  usually  contain  more  or  less  soft,  creamy, 
or  cheesy  pus  or  a  turbid  fluid  quite  different  from  the  loose,  fibrin- 
ous casts  of  acute  pleuroi^neumonia.  The  interlobular  tissue  may  or 
may  not  be  affected.  It  sometimes  contains  loose,  fibrinous  plugs,  or 
it  may  be  greatly  distended  w^ith  air,  especially  in  the  still  normal 
portions  of  the  lung.  The  pleura  is  seldom  seriously  diseased.  If 
we  contrast  with  these  features  the  firm  dark-red  hepatizations,  the 
plugging  of  the  veins,  the  extensive  interlobular  dejjosits,  and  the 
well-marked  pleuritis  in  pleuropneumonia,  there  is  little  chance  for 
confusion  between  well-developed  cases  of  these  two  lung  diseases. 

It  should  not  be  forgotten,  however,  that  the  lesions  of  the  disease 
known  as  contagious  pleuropneumonia  nuiy  be  confined  to  the  serous 


CONTAGIOUS    PLEUROPNEUMONIA.  375 

membranes  of  the  thorax,  or  they  may  be  confined  to  the  parenchyma 
of  the  lungs ;  they  may  affect  a  whole  lobe,  or  only  a  small  portion  of 
it;  they  may  or  may  not  cause  the  so-called  marbled  appearance. 
In  the  same  Avay  bronchopneumonia  may  vary  as  to  the  parts  of  the 
lung  affected,  the  extent  of  the  lesions,  the  degree  and  kind  of 
pathological  changes  in  the  interlobular  tissue,  the  color  of  the  lung 
on  cross  section  and  the  amount  of  hepatization.  In  individual  cases, 
therefore,  it  is  often  necessary  to  take  into  account  the  history  of  the 
animal,  the  course  of  the  disease,  and  the,communicability  of  the 
affection  before  a  diagnosis  can  be  made  between  the  two  diseases. 

Prevention  and  treatment. — The  prevention  of  pleuropneumonia, 
as  of  other  contagious  diseases,  consists  in  keeping  animals  so  that 
they  will  not  be  exposed  to  the  contagion.  As  the  disease  arises  only 
by  contagion,  there  is  no  possibility  of  an  animal  becoming  affected 
with  it  unless  it  has  been  exposed.  If,  therefore,  pleuropneumonia 
exists  in  a  locality  the  owner  of  healthy  cattle  should  make  every 
effort  to  keep  his  animals  from  coming  near  affected  ones  or  which 
have  been  exposed.  He  should  be  equallj'^  particular  not  to  allow 
persons  w^ho  have  been  on  the  infected  premises  to  visit  his  own 
pastures,  stables,  or  cattle. 

If  pleuropneumonia  breaks  out  in  a  herd,  every  animal  in  it  should 
be  slaughtered,  the  stables  thoroughly  cleaned  and  disinfected,  and 
no  other  cattle  allowed  on  the  premises  until  a  period  of  90  days  has 
elapsed. 

Medical  treatment  of  affected  animals  is  unavailing  and  should  not 
be  attempted.  No  matter  how  valuable  the  diseased  animals  may 
have  been  before  they  contracted  the  disease,  they  should  at  once  be 
destroyed  and  the  contagion  eradicated.  This  is  the  best  policy  for 
the  individual  as  well  as  for  the  community. 

The  eradication  of  this  disease  by  local  or  National  Governments 
can  be  successful  only  when  the  same  principles  are  adopted  and 
carried  out  as  here  recommended  for  individual  stables.  It  is  then  a 
difficult  undertaking,  simply  because  the  contagion  is  generally 
widely  disseminated  before  any  measures  are  adopted,  and  because 
a  great  majority  of  cattle  owners  will  never  report  the  existence  of 
the  disease.  Kegulations  must  therefore  be  enforced  which  will  in- 
sure the  prompt  discovery  of  every  herd  in  which  the  disease  ap- 
pears, as  well  as  the  destruction  of  all  diseased  and  exposed  animals 
and  the  thorough  disinfection  of  the  premises. 

To  discover  pleuropneumonia  sufficiently  early  for  this  purpose, 
the  district  supposed  to  be  infected  should  be  clearly  defined  and 
inspectors  should  be  constantly  employed  to  inspect  every  herd  in  it 
at  least  once  in  two  weeks,  or,  better,  once  a  week.  No  bovine  animal 
should  be  allowed  to  go  out  of  the  defined  district  alive,  and  all 
which  enter  it  should  be  carefully  inspected  to  insure  their  freedom 


376  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

from  disease.  As  an  assistance  to  the  discovery  of  diseased  herds, 
every  animal  which,  from  any  cause,  dies  in  the  infected  district 
and  every  animal  which  is  slaughtered,  even  if  apparently  in  good 
health,  should  be  the  subject  of  a  careful  post-mortem  examination. 
Many  affected  herds  will  be  found  in  this  way. 

In  addition  to  these  measures  it  is  also  necessary  to  guard  against 
the  removal  of  animals  from  one  stable  to  another  and  the  mixing  of 
herds  upon  common  pastures  or  in  the  public  highways.  The  object 
must  be  to  isolate  every  individual's  cattle  as  completely  as  possible, 
or  otherwise  a  single  affected*  animal  may  infect  a  dozen  or  more 
herds.  To  prevent  surreptitious  sale  or  trading  of  cattle,  each  animal 
must  in  some  way  be  numbered  and  recorded  in  the  books  kept  by  the 
official  in  charge  of  the  district.  In  the  work  of  the  United  States 
Department  of  Agriculture  a  numbered  metal  tag  was  fastened  to 
each  animal's  ear  and  index  books  were  so  arranged  that  with  a 
number  given  the  owner  could  be  at  once  ascertained,  or  from  the 
owner's  name  the  cattle  for  which  he  was  responsible  could  be  at  once 
learned.  In  this  way,  if  an  animal  was  missing  from  a  stable,  the  fact 
became  apparent  at  once,  or  if  one  too  many  was  found  in  a  stable 
the  number  in  its  ear  would  indicate  where  it  came  from. 

When  pleuropneumonia  is  discovered  by  these  means,  the  entire 
herd  should  be  slaughtered  as  soon  as  the  formalities  of  appraisement 
can  be  arranged.  In  country  districts  the  carcasses  should  be  buried, 
as  it  is  generally  impracticable  to  dispose  of  them  in  any  other  way. 
In  city  districts  the  animals  may  be  taken  to  a  slaughterhouse,  with 
such  precautions  as  are  possible  to  prevent  dissemination  of  the  con- 
tagion. The  animals  should  be  slaughtered  under  the  supervision  of 
an  inspector.  The  healthy  carcasses  may  be  utilized  for  food,  but  the 
blood,  entrails,  and  all  diseased  carcasses  should  be  heated  to  a  tem- 
perature equal  to  that  of  boiling  water  or  above,  and  then  used  for 
the  manufacture  of  fertilizers. 

The  disinfection  of  j)remises  should  be  thorough  and  should  be  car- 
ried out  by  a  trained  corps  of  men  employed  for  the  purpose.  The 
floors  of  stables  should  be  removed,  the  accumulations  removed  from 
beneath  them,  the  contents  of  haylofts  should  be  destroyed,  and  the 
woodwork  and  soil  beneath  the  stables  should  be  thoroughly  drenched 
with  a  solution  of  bichlorid  of  mercury,  1  part  to  2,000  of  water. 
After  the  flooring  is  replaced  the  woodwork  should  be  coated  with 
limewash,  containing  one-fourth  pound  of  chlorid  of  lime  to  the  gal- 
lon of  mixture. 

Usually  in  these  cases  the  owners  are  dependent  upon  tlieir  herd  of 
cows  for  a  living,  and  consequently  it  is  difficult  or  impossible  to 
hold  the  stables  vacant  for  any  considerable  period.  In  a  majority  of 
instances  cattle  may  be  admitted  at  once  to  stables  so  disinfected, 
without  the  reappearance  of  the  disease.     Occasionally,  however,  it 


RINDERPEST.  377 

will  reappear  without  apparent  cause.  For  this  reason  the  inspection 
and  other  measures  must  be  maintained  in  the  infected  district  for 
six  months  or  a  year  after  the  last  case  of  disease  has  been  disposed  of. 

Many  people  have  objected  to  the  slaughter  of  diseased  and  ex- 
posed animals  as  an  unscientific  and  expensive  method  of  eradicating 
the  disease.  To  these  it  may  be  answered  that  it  is  the  only  method 
which  has  e^er  proved  successful,  and  that  in  the  end  it  is  much 
more  economical  than  temporizing  measures. 

Inoculation  has  been  adopted  in  many  countries,  and  has  undoubt- 
edly lessened  the  death  rate,  but  where  this  practice  is  allowed  the 
disease  is  kept  up  and  spreads.  For  this  reason  it  should  be  prohib- 
ited wherever  there  is  a  possibility  and  disposition  to  eradicate  the 
contagion. 

RINDERPEST. 

Rinderpest,  also  known  as  cattle  plague,  is  an  acute,  infectious  dis- 
ease of  cattle,  in  which  the  digestive  organs  are  mainly  involved. 
Though  unknown  in  this  country,  the  importance  of  having  near  at 
hand  a  few  definite  facts  concerning  this  disease,  should  it  ever 
reach  our  shores,  will  be  at  once  appreciated.  A  knowledge  of  such 
facts  may  aid  in  an  early  recognition  of  the  disease.  It  must  not  be 
forgotten,  on  the  other  hand,  that  a  superficial  knowledge  of  dis- 
eases, such  as  the  layman  may  gain  through  reading,  not  infrequently 
leads  to  confounding  comparatively  harmless,  noninfectious  mala- 
dies with  such  as  are  truly  dangerous  (foot-and-mouth  disease, 
rinderpest,  etc),  and  causes  temporary  panics  among  stock  owners. 

According  to  some  authorities,  rinderpest  has  its  home  in  the  ter- 
ritory around  the  Black  Sea  and  the  Volga  Eiver  in  Russia ;  accord- 
ing to  others,  in  Central  Asia.  Thence  it  has  been  conveyed  at 
various  times  by  cattle  to  nearly  every  country  of  Europe  and  Asia, 
where  it  has  proved  to  be  a  veritable  bovine  scourge.  It  probably 
visited  Europe  as  early  as  the  beginning  of  the  Christian  era,  and 
since  then  the  migrations  of  the  people  from  the  Far  East  have  from 
time  to  time  introduced  the  disease.  Especially  dviring  the  eight- 
eenth century  it  was  more  or  less  prevalent  in  Europe,  owing  to  the 
frequent  wars,  during  which  herds  of  cattle  were  brought  from  east- 
ern Europe  and  Asia  to  supply  the  demands  of  the  armies.  It  pre- 
vailed in  Europe  during  the  Franco-Prussian  War.  At  present  it 
exists  in  Russia,  South  Africa,  and  the  Philippines. 

The  virus  is  conveyed  from  one  country  to  another  chiefly  by  means 
of  infected  cattle,  although  infected  hides,  wool,  and  feed  may  play 
an  important  part  in  its  dissemination.  The  railroad  facilities  of  the 
present,  which  furnish  the  means  of  such  rapid  communication,  are 
particularly  liable  to  aid  in  the  spread  of  the  disease. 


378  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

In  the  past  rinderpest  has  been  supposed  to  be  identical  with  vari- 
ous human  diseases,  among  them  smallpox  and  typhoid  fever.  These 
suppositions  are  unfounded,  and  the  view  of  authorities  to-day  is 
that  it  is  a  disease  of  a  peculiar  kind,  not  identical  with  any  other 
known  infectious  disease. 

The  contagion  of  rinderpest. — The  cause  of  rinderpest  must  be 
looked  for  among  microorganisms — most  likely  bacteria.  The  inves- 
tigations made  thus  far  for  this  causal  factor  have  been  fruitless. 
However,  certain  recent  experiments  would  indicate  that  the  unseen 
microbe  is  of  such  dimensions  that  it  is  withheld  by  the  dense 
bacterial  filters,  but  passes  through  the  more  porous  ones.  For- 
merly it  was  supposed  by  various  authorities  that  rinderpest  virus 
appeared  spontaneously  under  the  influence  of  deteriorated  feed  and 
long  and  exhausting  drives ;  also  during  unusual  meteorological  con- 
ditions. This  view,  however,  is  no  longer  maintained.  It  is  probable 
that  in  its  home  in  Asia  the  disease  is  perpetuated  by  continual  infec- 
tion of  fresh  animals,  and  some  authorities  go  even  so  far  as  to  believe 
that  the  disease  would  be  entirely  stamped  out,  even  in  its  native 
haunts,  by  a  destruction  of  all  sick  and  infected  herds.  However  this 
mav  be,  the  success  of  such  an  undertaking  would  largely  depend  on 
the  nature  of  the  cause.  If  a  strictly  parasitic  organism,  like  the  con- 
tagion of  pleuropneumonia,  it  might  be  completely  extirpated  in  this 
way.  If,  however,  the  germs  or  bacteria  may  live  and  multiply  out- 
side of  the  bovine  body,  in  the  soil,  water,  or  in  some  other  animal, 
extirpation  would  be  impossible. 

The  virus  may  be  transmitted  in  a  variety  of  ways,  both  direct 
and  indirect,  from  sick  to  healthy  animals.  It  is  said  to  be  present 
in  the  various  excreta,  such  as  the  discharges  from  the  nose,  and  the 
saliva,  the  urine,  and  the  manure,  of  the  diseased.  For  months  it 
retains  its  vitality  in  a  moist  state  outside  the  body,  and  the  disease 
is  reported  to  have  developed  after  feeding  hay  a  year  after  it  had 
lain  in  an  infected  stable;  hence  manure  and  the  fodder  and  bedding 
soiled  with  discharges  may  convey  it.  Persons  may  carry  the  virus 
on  their  shoes,  clothing,  or  implements.  Even  small  animals,  such 
as  cats  and  rats,  which  frequent  barns  and  stables,  have  been  looked 
upon  as  carriers  of  the  virus. 

Cattle  are  very  susceptible  to  the  disease,  and  in  its  virulent  type 
all  those  exposed  are  said  to  become  infected.  Buffaloes,  sheep,  and 
goats  are  likewise  susceptible,  but  in  a  less  degree. 

It  is  also  claimed  that  animals  after  having  passed  through  one 
attack  successfully  resist  future  attacks.  Inoculation  with  virus  is 
said  to  produce  immunity,  but  in  manj'^  cases  the  process  of  inocula- 
tion itself  is  followed  by  death. 

Sy7nptonfi8. — The  symptoms  of  rinderpest  are  not  \'ery  character- 
istic, and  hence  the  diagnosis  of  a  suspected  case  in  the  beginning  of 


RINDERPEST.  379 

an  invasion  is  attended  with  difficulties.  Certain  appearances  whicii 
are  characteristic  of  one  epizootic  may  be  absent  in  another.  Dif- 
ferent observers  are  not  quite  agreed  as  to  the  most  constant  and 
important. 

The  period  of  incubation,  i.  e.,  the  time  between  the  exposure  to 
infection  and  the  earliest  outward  symptoms,  varies  from  three  to 
nine  davs.  The  first  sign  is  a  very  high  fever,  which  may  reach 
107°  F.  The  heat  of  the  skin  varies  in  different  parts  of  the  body, 
and  may  be  felt  at  the  base  of  the  eare  and  horns.  Repeated  chills 
are  frequently  observed.  The  pulse  reaches  50  to  60  beats  a  minute, 
and  in  very  severe  attacks  may  rise  to  90   or  100. 

The  animal  manifests  great  debility.  The  head  droops  and  rests 
on  some  object  of  support.  One  or  both  ears  may  droop.  The  coat 
is  staring  and  the  muzzle  dry.  The  secretion  of  milk  diminishes 
very  rapidly.  Within  twelve  to  twenty  hours  the  usual  quantity 
may  have  become  reduced  one-half  or  two-thirds.  The  back  is 
arched,  and  the  four  limbs  are  brought  together  under  the  body. 

As  the  disease  progresses,  symptoms  with  reference  to  the  diges- 
tive and  respiratory  organs  become  prominent.  The  mucous  mem- 
brane of  the  mouth  and  the  nose,  as  well  as  that  of  the  rectum  and 
vagina,  becomes  reddened,  either  in  patches  or  diffusely,  and  assumes 
a  scarlet  hue.  The  discharges,  at  first  firm,  become  softer,  and  soon 
diarrhea  sets  in.  This  is  said  to  be  one  of  the  most  constant  symp- 
toms. The  rectum  may  become  everted  and  paralyzed,  and  the 
bowels  move  spontaneously.  The  discharges  become  fetid,  viscid, 
and  streaked  with  blood.  Coughing  is  a  common  symptom,  and 
by  some  is  considered  characteristic.  It  is  associated  with  dis- 
charges from  the  nose  and  vagina  and  dribbling  of  saliva  from  the 
mouth.  The  eyes  also  are  affected.  There  is  an  increased  forma- 
tion of  a  viscid  secretion  which  flows  down  the  face. 

Another  series  of  changes  prominent  in  some  epizootics  and  mild 
or  absent  in  others  are  the  ulcers,  or  so-called  "  erosions,"  in  the 
mouth.  These  begin  as  red  patches  and  streaks.  The  mucous  mem- 
brane in  such  localities  is  converted  into  a  grayish-white  slough, 
which,  when  shed,  leaves  a  small  erosion,  or  ulcer.  At  the  same 
time  similar  changes  may  go  on  in  the  skin  of  the  thighs,  the  udder, 
or  the  scrotum,  or  about  the  vagina,  which  lead  to  small  sloughs. 

In  severe  cases,  which  are  the  most  common  in  the  susceptible 
cattle  of  western  Europe,  death  ensues  four  to  seven  days  after 
the  first  appearance  of  the  disease,  and  is  preceded  by  great  ema- 
ciation and  debility,  fetid,  purulent  discharges  from  the  nose  and 
mouth,  and  the  relaxed  rectum  and  vagina. 

After  death,  if  the  animal  is  opened  and  the  organs  carefully 
examined,  the  chief  changes  are  found  in  the  digestive  organs.  The 
lining  membrane  of  the  mouth  and  pharynx  is  covered  with  mucus, 


380  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

is  reddened  in  spots,  and  shows  superficial,  yellowish-gray,  cheesy 
patches,  which  represent  dead  tissue,  and  when  removed  expose 
ulcerated  depressions.  The  same  reddening  in  spots  and  the  yellow- 
ish-gray, cheesy  deposits  or  patches  are  found  in  the  fourth  stomach, 
the  small  intestines,  and  more  rarely  in  the  cecum,  while  the  third 
stomach,  or  manyplies,  is  more  or  less  impacted  with  dry,  hard  feed. 
Similar  changes  may  be  found  on  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  nasal 
cavity,  larynx,  trachea,  the  uterus,  vagina,  and  rectum.  The  lungs 
may  be  injected,  edematous,  or  pneumonic.  The  heart  muscle  is  pale 
and  flabby,  and  frequently  hemorrhages  are  observed  in  its  internal 
membrane.  The  liver  may  be  pale  or  injected  with  blood,  and  at 
times  shoW'S  h<jjnorrhages  beneath  its  capsule.  The  bile  is  thin  and 
watery  in  consistence.  The  kidneys  may  be  inflamed  or  contain 
small  hemorrhages  w  ithin  their  substance  or  under  the  capsule.  The 
lymphatic  glands  may  be  swollen  and  injected  or  even  hemorrhagic. 

Treatment. — On  account  of  the  danger  of  spreading  the  infection, 
neither  medicinal  treatment  nor  inoculation  is  permitted  in  European 
countries,  with  the  exception  of  Eussia,  where  the  disease  is  more 
generally  diffused.  The  most  efl'ective  method  of  exterminating  rin- 
derpest in  those  districts  in  which  the  disease  is  not  indigenous  has 
been  found  to  be  the  slaughter  of  all  afi^ected  and  exposed  animals. 
Where  the  disease  is  general,  successful  efforts  adopted  for  its  con- 
trol have  followed  the  immunization  by  inoculation  of  the  exposed 
animals  and  a  strict  application  of  appropriate  sanitary  measures. 
This  protective  inoculation  has  been  practiced  with  very  gratifying 
results  in  Russia,  South  Africa,  and  in  the  Philippine  Islands.  An 
active  immunity  is  thus  induced  in  susceptible  animals  which  lasts 
until  the  danger  from  exposure  to  the  disease  is  over.  This  immu- 
nity may  be  attained  (1)  by  the  inoculation  of  pure  bile  from  an  ani- 
mal w^hich  recentl}^  died  of  rinderpest,  (2)  by  the  inoculation  of 
glycerinated  bile,  followed  by  pure  bile  or  virulent  blood,  or  (3) 
by  the  simultaneous  inoculation  of  strong  standardized  serum  and 
virulent  blood. 

The  latter  method  has  been  adopted  by  the  United  States  Govern- 
ment in  its  endeavor  to  exterminate  the  disease  in  the  Philippines, 
and  to  protect  the  cattle  and  carabaos  against  rinderpest  after  their 
importation  into  those  islands.  Owing  to  the  existence  of  this  and 
other  infectious  diseases  in  the  Philippine  Islands,  an  order  has  been 
issued  by  the  Department  of  Agriculture  prohibiting  the  landing  of 
any  live  stock  or  animals  of  any  kind  from  the  Philippines  at  any  of 
the  ports  of  the  United  States  or  the  dependencies  thereof.  This  pro- 
hibition removes  the  greatest  source  of  danger  to  which  the  United 
States  is  exposed  as  the  result  of  its  intercourse  with  the  islands. 
The  introduction  of  rinderpest  from  those  countries  from  which 
we  import  animals  is  rendered  extremely  improbable,  especially  in 


FOOT-AND-MOUTH    DISEASE.  381 

live  animals,  owing  to  its  short  period  of  incubation  and  to  the 
90-day  quarantine  for  cattle  (counting  from  date  of  shipment)  and 
15-day  (counting  from  date  of  landing)  quarantine  for  sheep  and 
other  ruminants  and  swine  which  are  at  present  enforced  in  the 
United  States  at  all  ports  of  entry. 

FOOT-AND-MOUTH  DISEASE. 

[PI.  XXXIII.] 

Foot-and-mouth  disease,  also  known  as  aphthous  fever,  epizootic 
aphtha,  and  eczema  contagiosa,  is  an  acute,  highly  communicable 
disease  chiefly  confined  to  cloven-footed  animals  and  characterized 
by  an  eruption  of  vesicles  or  blisters  on  the  mucous  membrane  of  the 
mouth  and  on  the  skin  between  the  toes  and  above  the  hoofs.  The 
vesicles  rupture,  forming  erosions  and  ulcerations;  there  are  also 
salivation,  tenderness  of  the  affected  parts,  loss  of  appetite,  lameness, 
emaciation,  and  diminution  in  the  quantity  of  milk  secreted. 

The  tremendous  ravages  of  the  disease  are  seen  in  the  number  and 
variety  of  the  species  attacked.  While  it  may  be  regarded  as  essen- 
tially a  disease  of  cattle,  hogs  would  seem  to  be  as  easy  a  prey. 
Almost  in  the  same  grade  of  receptivity  are  sheep  and  goats.  Next 
in  order  of  susceptibility  come  the  buffalo,  American  bison,  camel, 
chamois,  llama,  giraffe,  and  antelope.  Horses,  dogs,  cats,  and  even 
poultry  may  occasionally  become  infected  with  the  disease,  the  last 
three  being  particularly  dangerous  as  carriers  of  the  contagion. 
Man  himself  is  not  immune,  and  the  frequency  of  his  infection  by 
coming  in  contact  with  diseased  animals  is  established  by  numerous 
observations. 

As  with  other  communicable  diseases,  the  source  and  origin  of 
foot-and-mouth  disease  have  given  rise  to  much  speculation.  The 
disease  had  been  known  in  Europe  for  centuries,  but  it  was  not 
until  comparatively  recent  years  that  the  erroneous  conceptions  of 
its  spontaneous  origin  as  a  result  of  climatic  and  meteorological 
conditions,  exhausting  journeys,  etc.,  were  abandoned.  It  is  now 
conceded  that  foot-and-mouth  disease  is  propagated  by  a  specific 
virus  and  that  every  outbreak  starts  from  some  preexisting  outbreak. 

So  far  investigators  have  been  unable  to  identify  or  isolate  the 
specific  organism  causing  the  disease,  although  numerous  attempts 
have  been  made  to  cultivate  and  stain  it  by  laboratory  methods. 
Experiments  have  shown  that  the  virus  will  pass  through  standard 
germ-proof  filters,  thus  indicating  its  minute  size  and  the  reason  it 
has  not  been  detected  by  the  staining  methods.  The  contagion  may 
be  found  in  the  serum  of  the  vesicles  on  the  mouth,  feet,  and  udder ; 
in  the  saliva,  milk,  and  various  secretions  and  excretions;  also  in  the 
blood  during  the  rise  of  temperature. 


382  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

A  Avide  distribution  of  the  virus  and  a  rapid  infection  of  a  herd  is 
the  result.  Animals  may  be  infected  directly,  as  by  licking,  and  in 
calves  hj  sucking,  or  indirectly  by  such  things  as  infected  manure, 
hay,  utensils,  drinking  troughs,  railway  cars,  animal  markets,  barn- 
yards, and  pastures.  Human  beings  may  carry  the  virus  on  their 
shoes  and  clothing  and  transmit  it  on  their  hands  Avhen  milking,  since 
the  udder  is  occasionally  the  seat  of  the  eruption.  It  may  also  be 
carried  by  dogs,  cats,  rats,  chickens,  pigeons,  etc.  Milk  in  a  raw 
state  ma}'^  also  transmit  the  disease  to  animals  fed  with  it. 

The  observations  made  by  some  veterinarians  would  lead  us  to 
suppose  that  the  virus  is  quite  readily  destroyed.  It  is  claimed  that 
stables  thoroughly  cleaned  become  safe  after  drying  for  a  short  time ; 
hence,  litter  of  all  kinds,  such  as  manure  or  soiled  hay  and  straw,  may 
remain  infective  for  a  longer  time  because  they  do  not  dry  out. 
Other  authorities  maintain  that  the  virus  is  quite  tenacious  and  may 
live  in  stables  even  so  long  as  a  year.  They  also  state  that  animals 
which  have  passed  through  the  disease  may  be  a  source  of  infection 
for  several  months  after  recovery. 

Unlike  most  other  infectious  diseases,  foot-and-mouth  disease 
may  repeatedly  attack  the  same  animals.  The  immunity  conferred 
by  an  attack  is  of  limited  duration. 

The  period  of  incubation  (that  is,  the  time  between  the  exposure 
of  an  animal  to  infection  and  the  development  of  the  disease)  is 
variable,  usually  from  three  to  six  days.  The  disease  maj  ajjpear 
in  '24:  hours,  or,  in  exceptional  cases,  not  for  18  days  or  even  longer. 

Losses. — The  highly  contagious  character  of  foot-and-mouth  dis- 
ease and  its  rapid  spread  to  practically  all  exposed  susceptible  ani- 
mals lead  to  heavy  losses.  Since  the  mortality  is  comparatively  low, 
ranging  from  only  3  per  cent  or  less  in  mild  forms  to  30  or  40  per  cent 
in  malignant  cases,  the  havoc  caused  by  the  pestilence  is  sometimes 
underestimated.  But  there  are  other  sources  of  loss  which  are  much 
more  important  than  the  actual  mortality.  The  fever  and  the 
difficult}^  of  eating  cause  a  rapid  and  extreme  loss  in  flesh  and  a 
lessening  or  cessation  of  the  milk  secretion.  The  udders  often 
become  inflamed  and  ruined  by  the  formation  of  abscesses,  and  cows 
affected  in  this  way  are  sometimes  rendered  permanently  valueless  for 
milk  production.  The  inflammation  of  the  feet  may  cause  the  horn 
to  drop  from  the  toes,  producing  great  lameness  and  lasting  injury. 
Abortion  is  frequent,  and  typical  lesions  have  been  observed  in  the 
newly  born  at  birth.  Altogether  these  losses  may  amount  to  20  or 
30  per  cent  of  the  value  of  the  affected  animals. 

In  addition  there  are  indirect  losses  of  a  commercial  nature. 
Dairy  farmers  are  put  out  of  business  for  a  time.  Necessary  quar- 
antine restrictions  greatly  interfere  with  the  movement  of  live  stock 
and  such  commodities  as  hay,  straw,  hides,  and  farm  produce.    The 


FOOT-AND-MOUTH    DISEASE.  383 

business  of  the  stockyards  and  slaughtering  centers  is  greatly  inter- 
fered with.  Sometimes  it  is  necessary  to  close  stockyards  for  disin- 
fection. The  whole  business  of  marketing,  transporting,  feeding,  and 
slaughtering  is  interrupted  and  deranged.  Losses  of  this  character 
may  reach  enormous  proportions. 

The  disease  in  other  countries. — Foot-and-mouth  disease  has  pre- 
Aailed  in  Europe  for  a  great  many  j^ears  and  has  occasioned  tre- 
mendous economic  losses  there. 

In  Italy,  France,  Switzerland,  Germany,  and  Eussia  the  plague  has 
existed  so  long  and  has  gained  such  a  foothold  that  it  is  economically 
impossible  to  fight  it  with  the  American  methods  of  slaughter  and 
disinfection,  for  to  do  so  would  kill  a  large  percentage  of  the  live 
stock  of  those  countries.  In  consequence,  little  or  no  progress  toward 
eradication  has  been  made  by  the  authorities,  though  the  severity  of 
the  disease  in  France  appears  to  have  abated  somewhat  in  recent 
months. 

The  outbreak  which  appeared  in  Germany  in  1888  increased  stead- 
ily until  1892,  when  it  diminished  gradually  for  a  few  years,  but  the 
disease  again  reached  great  proportions  in  1899.  Thereafter  it 
continued  to  exist  to  a  greater  or  less  extent  until  in  1911  it  attained 
a  virulence  unequaled  before.  In  that  year  3,366,369  cattle,  1,602,927 
sheep,  2,-555,371  hogs,  and  53,674:  goats  were  affected.  At  that  time 
the  total  number  of  cattle,  sheep,  swine,  and  goats  in  Germany  was 
only  51,319,000,  while  there  were  in  the  United  States  172,572,000, 
or  between  three  and  four  times  as  many.  It  can  readily  be  imagined, 
therefore,  what  it  would  mean  to  the  United  States  if  the  disease  were 
to  gain  the  foothold  here  that  it  had  in  Germany,  where,  as  these 
figures  show,  approximately  one  out  of  seven  of  the  animals  sus- 
ceptible to  the  disease  was  affected. 

The  German  Government,  of  course,  has  not  left  the  disease  to 
itself.  It  attempted  to  control  recent  outbreaks  by  the  method  of 
slaughter,  but  the  pestilence  had  gained  too  much  headway  and  was 
too  firmly  established  in  too  many  portions  of  the  country  for  this 
method  to  succeed,  and  the  slaughter  of  the  infected  herds  had  to 
be  abandoned.  It  now  appears  that  there  is  no  hope  of  getting  rid 
of  it  until  the  virus  has  worn  itself  out.  As  soon  as  the  animals' 
period  of  acquired  immunity  is  over  and  favorable  conditions  present 
themselves,  the  contagion  breaks  out  with  renewed  virulence.  It 
has  been  impossible  to  control  it  by  means  of  quarantines.  One 
scientist  has  asserted  that  unless  all  the  infected  farms  were  abso- 
lutely isolated  and  the  movement,  not  only  of  live  stock  but  of  per- 
sons, absolutely  prohibited,  the  disease  could  not  be  stamped  out. 
Such  a  quarantine  is,  of  course,  utterly  impossible  to  enforce.  In 
portions  of  Germany  the  farmers,  realizing  that  the  disease  is  inevi- 
table, make  haste  to  be  done  with  it  by  exposing  their  stock  deliber- 


384  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE, 

ately  to  mild  cases  in  the  hope  that  this  will  result  in  an  immediate, 
mild  attack  and  immunity  for  several  years  thereafter.  Such 
immunity,  however,  is  very  uncertain. 

Great  Britain,  Denmark,  Norway,  and  Sweden,  on  account  of  their 
comparatively  isolated  positions,  have  been  more  successful  in  keep- 
ing out  the  disease.  The  outbreaks  in  those  countries  have  been 
more  sporadic,  and  by  resorting  to  immediate  slaughter  the  authori- 
ties have  been  able  to  stamp  them  out.  Great  Britain  has  applied 
both  quarantine  and  slaughter  for  many  years,  and  in  an  outbreak 
near  Dublin  in  1912  measures  were  adopted  Avhich  were  even  more 
stringent  than  any  that  have  been  used  in  the  United  States.  A 
British  official  (Cope)  asserted  in  1899  that  after  his  country's  ex- 
perience with  this  disease  it  was  "  more  dreaded  by  the  farmers  and 
stock  raisers  of  Great  Britain  than  cattle  plague  or  pleuropneumonia, 
and  they  are  now  willing  and  ready  to  put  up  with  any  restrictions, 
of  however  drastic  a  character,  considered  necessary  by  the  central 
department  to  stamp  it  out."  The  British  authorities  have  suc- 
ceeded in  suppressing  each  outbreak,  but  reinfection  often  occurs 
from  the  neighboring  continent.  Great  Britain  has  been  reported 
as  free  of  the  disease  for  a  few  months  up  to  the  time  this  is  written. 
Sweden  is  now  reported  as  affected. 

In  November,  1906,  the  disease  reached  Belgium  from  France, 
Avhere  it  was  quite  prevalent,  and  by  the  end  of  the  year  every 
Province  in  Belgium  was  aifected,  and  the  Netherlands  as  well. 
Efforts  to  eradicate  it  from  Belgium  were  unavailing.  The  Nether- 
lands apparently  succeeded  in  stamping  it  out  for  about  six  months, 
but  it  has  reappeared  there. 

The  disease  is  also  more  or  less  prevalent  in  Austria-Hungary, 
Spain,  and  in  the  Balkan  countries. 

Australia  and  New  Zealand  have  remained  free  from  it. 

We  have  less  accurate  information  regarding  Asia  and  Africa,  but 
the  disease  is  known  to  prevail  in  Japan  and  China  and  in  the  Philip- 
pine Islands,  and  it  is  doubtful  whether  any  considerable  part  of  the 
Orient  is  free  from  it. 

In  South  America  it  is  reported  as  common  in  Brazil,  Argentina, 
and  Uruguay,  and  it  probably  exists  in  other  countries. 

Canada  and  Mexico  are  fortunately  free  from  the  disease. 

Outbreaks  in  the  United  States. — Foot-and-mouth  disease  has  ap- 
peared in  the  ITnited  States  on  six  different  occasions — 1870,  1880, 
1884,  1902,  1908,  and  1914. 

An  extensive  outbreak  in  1870  was  introduced  by  way  of  Canada, 
Avhere  the  infection  was  brought  by  an  importation  of  cattle  from 
Scotland.  It  spread  into  the  New  England  States  and  Ncav  York 
and  appears  to  have  been  arrested  within  a  few  months.  Its  failure 
to  spread  more  extensively  and  its  early  disappearance  have  been 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 

Plate  XXXIII. 

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m 

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^^^^^E^^^^^^^^^^l 

FOOT-AND-MOUTH    DISEASE.  385 

ascribed  to  favorable  conditions,  such  as  the  movement  of  live  stock 
from  west  to  east,  the  limited  trading  at  that  period  as  compared 
with  the  present  time,  the  restriction  of  traffic  by  winter  weather,  and 
the  infreqiiency  of  travel  which  obtained  at  that  time  among  people. 

About  1880  two  or  three  lots  of  animals  affected  by  this  disease 
were  brought  to  the  United  States,  but  there  was  no  extension  from 
the  animals  originally  affected. 

In  1884,  at  Portland,  Me.,  there  was  a  small  outbreak  caused  by 
imported  cattle,  and  the  disease  spread  to  a  few  herds  outside  the 
quarantine  station.  Owing  to  the  small  number  of  animals  affected 
and  the  limited  area  of  territory  covered  by  the  disease,  it  was  easily 
controlled  by  the  ordinary  measures  of  quarantine  and  disinfection. 

It  will  be  observed  that  in  all  these  early  outbreaks  the  contagion 
was  introduced  with  imported  animals.  Since  the  development  of  a 
stringent  system  of  inspection  and  quarantine  of  imported  live  stock, 
no  instance  of  that  kind  has  occurred.  On  subsequent  occasions  the 
infection  has  evidently  been  brought  in  with  contaminated  products 
or  materials  and  not  by  means  of  live  animals. 

In  November,  1902,  the  disease  was  discovered  in  Massachusetts 
and  Khode  Island.  The  earliest  cases  were  traced  to  Chelsea,  Mass., 
near  the  docks,  and  it  was  suspected  for  a  time  that  the  infection 
was  brought  in  with  foreign  shipping,  by  some  such  means  as  hay, 
straw,  halters,  ropes,  hides,  hair,  wool,  etc.  Later  developments, 
however,  and  especially  investigations  into  the  cause  of  the  1908 
outbreak,  led  to  the  belief  that  a  more  probable  source  of  the  infec- 
tion was  cowpox  vaccine  virus  imported  from  a  country  (probably 
Japan)  where  foot-and-mouth  disease  existed,  the  vaccine  virus  being 
contaminated  with  the  virus  of  foot-and-mouth  disease. 

A  Federal  quarantine  was  declared  by  the  Secretary  of  Agriculture 
on  November  27,  1902,  as  soon  as  the  nature  of  the  disease  was 
established,  and  steps  for  eradication  were  at  once  taken  by  the 
Bureau  of  Animal  Industry  of  the  United  States  Department  of 
Agriculture  in  cooperation  with  authorities  of  the  affected  States. 
The  methods  folloAved  consisted  of  inspection  to  trace  and  detect  the 
disease,  quarantine  of  infected  premises  and  territory,  slaughter  and 
burial  or  burning  of  diseased  and  exposed  animals,  and  disinfection 
of  premises. 

This  outbreak  involved  Massachusetts,  New  Hampshire,  Vermont, 
and  Rhode  Island,  and  was  eradicated  in  about  six  months.  Two 
hundred  and  forty-four  herds,  including  4,712  cattle,  were  found 
infected.  Of  these,  205  herds  with  3,872  cattle,  as  well  as  360  hogs 
and  220  sheep  and  goats,  were  slaughtered.  The  cattle  infected  but 
not  slaughtered  were  those  that  either  died  or  completely  recovered 
before  slaughtering  could  be  carried  out.  The  animals  slaughtered 
were  valued  at  $184,155.10,  and  the  Federal  Government  reimbursed 
33071°— 16 25 


386  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

owners  to  the  extent  of  70  per  cent,  or  $178,908.57.  It  is  understood 
that  the  States  paid  the  remainder.  The  total  cost  to  the  Depart- 
ment of  Agriculture  of  stamping  out  the  disease  was  about  $300,000. 

The  next  appearance  of  the  foot-and-mouth  disease  was  early  in 
Xovember,  1908,  when  it  was  observed  in  cattle  near  Danville,  Pa. 
A  Federal  quarantine  was  issued  November  12.  The  infection  was 
traced  back  to  the  stockyards  at  East  Buifalo,  X.  Y.,  and  to  Detroit, 
Mich.  The  disease  appeared  in  the  States  of  Michigan,  New  York, 
Pennsylvania,  and  Maryland.  A  careful  and  thorough  investigation 
made  by  Mohler  of  the  Bureau  of  Animal  Industrj"  and  Rosenau  of 
the  Public  Health  Service  demonstrated  that  the  outbreak  started 
from  calves  used  to  propagate  vaccine  virus  at  an  establishment  near 
Detroit,  and  that  the  source  of  the  infection  was  contaminated 
Japanese  vaccine  virus. 

Vigorous  measures  of  eradication  similar  to  those  employed  in 
1902-3  were  at  once  put  into  effect  and  the  disease  was  stamped  out 
in  about  five  months  at  an  expense  of  about  $300,000  to  the  Depart- 
ment of  Agriculture,  and  of  about  $113,000  to  the  States.  The  in- 
spectors made  108,683  visits  to  farms,  stockyards,  etc.,  and  inspected 
more  than  1,500,000  animals  (including  reinspections).  One  hun- 
dred and  fifty-seven  premises  were  found  infected,  and  3,636  animals 
(2,025  cattle,  1,329  hogs,  and  282  sheep  and  goats),  valued  at 
$90,033.18,  were  slaughtered.  Owners  were  reimbursed  for  the  value 
of  their  animals  and  property  destroyed,  one-third  being  paid  bj''  the 
States  and  two-thirds  by  the  Federal  Government. 

The  latest  invasion  was  discovered  in  the  vicinity  of  Niles.  Mich., 
in  October,  1914,  after  it  had  evidently  been  under  way  since  August 
of  the  same  year.  This  is  the  most  serious  and  extensive  outbreak 
ever  known  in  this  country.  The  disease  extended  to  22  States  and 
the  District  of  Columbia,  at  places  ranging  from  the  Atlantic  to  the 
Pacific  coasts.  The  work  of  eradication  was  not  completed  for 
more  than  a  year.  The  affected  States  were  Connecticut,  Delaware, 
Illinois,  Indiana,  Iowa,  Kansas,  Kentucky,  Maryland,  Massachusetts, 
Michigan,  Minnesota,  Montana,  New  Hampshire,  New  Jersey,  New 
York,  Ohio,  Pennsylvania,  Ehode  Island,  Virginia,  "Wfishington, 
West  Virginia,  and  Wisconsin.  Illinois  had  the  largest  infected 
area  and  the  largest  number  of  animals  affected.  The  Union  Stock 
Yards  at  Chicago  became  infected  and  were  a  source  of  dissemina- 
tion of  the  contagion  north,  east,  south,  and  west.  These  and  other 
yards  found  infected  were  closed  temporarily  and  disinfected. 

The  first  Federal  quarantine  was  issued  October  19,  1914.  A  cam- 
paign to  check  the  spread  of  the  disease  and  to  stamp  it  out  was 
immediately  begun  by  the  United  States  Department  of  Agriculture 
in  cooperation  with  the  State  authorities.  Quarantines  against  the 
movement  of  animals  and  certain  materials  from  the  infected  areas 


FOOT-AND-MOUTH    DISEASE.  387 

were  declared,  shipments  were  traced,  rumors  investigated,  and 
thorough  inspections  made  in  an  effort  to  discover  all  infected  stock. 
As  measures  of  eradication,  diseased  herds  were  slaughtered  and 
buried  and  the  premises  disinfected.  The  owners  of  live  stock  and 
other  property  destroyed  on  account  of  the  disease  were  reimbursed 
to  the  extent  of  the  appraised  value,  half  of  which  is  paid  by  the 
Federal  Government  and  half  by  the  State.  There  were  slaughtered 
172,593  animals  (76,575  cattle,  86,492  swine,  9,511  sheep,  133  goats, 
and  9  deer),  in  3,482  herds.  The  total  appraised  value  of  these 
animals  was  more  than  $5,800,000.  The  expense  to  the  Federal  Gov- 
ernment of  eradicating  this  outbreak  was  about  $4,540,000. 

Symptoms: — In  three  to  six  clays,  or  even  longer,  after  the  exposure 
of  the  animal  to  the  infection  the  disease  makes  its  appearance.  It  is 
usually  first  indicated  by  the  animal  suffering  from  a  chill,  quickly 
followed  b}^  an  invasion  of  fever,  which  may  cause  the  temperature  to 
rise  as  high  as  106°  F.  These  symptoms  are  not  always  present,  or 
may  be  in  so  slight  a  form  as  to  escape  notice.  Following  this  in  one 
or  two  days  it  will  be  noticed  that  small  vesicles  or  blisters  about  the 
size  of  hemp  seeds  or  a  pea  are  making  their  appearance  upon  the 
mucous  membrances  of  the  mouth  at  the  border  and  upper  surface 
of  the  tongue  near  the  tip,  the  inside  of  the  cheeks,  on  the  gums  and 
the  inner  surface  of  the  lips,  or  on  the,  margin  of  the  dental  pad. 
These  little  blisters  contain  a  yellowish,  watery  fluid  and  gradually 
become  more  extensive  as  the  disease  advances.  Soon  after  the  erup- 
tions have  appeared  in  the  mouth  of  the  animal  considerable  swelling, 
redness,  and  tenderness  will  be  noticed  about  the  feet,  at  the  coronet, 
and  between  the  digits  of  each  foot.  A  day  or  two  later  eruptions 
similar  to  those  within  the  mouth  make  their  appearance  upon  these 
swollen  regions  of  the  foot,  and  at  this  stage  it  is  usual  to  find  that 
like  lesions  have  made  their  appearance  upon  the  perineum  of  the 
victim.  In  the  case  of  milch  cows  the  udder,  and  more  particularly 
the  teats,  show  the  same  vesicular  eruption,  but  the  latter  as  the 
result  of  milking  soon  become  covered  with  reddened  spots  deprived 
of  the  superficial  layer  of  skin  and  may  develop  deep,  obstinate 
fissures.   "N 

As  soon  as  the  disease  has  become  well  established  the  patient 
evinces  pain  when  attempting  to  eat;  in  fact,  the  appetite  is  often 
so  seriousW  affected  that  all  feed  is  refused,  and  the  animal  uneasily 
opens  and  shuts  its  mouth  with  a  characteristic  smacking  sound, 
Avhile  strings  of  cohesiA'e,  v^y  saliva  hang  suspended  from  the 
lips.  With  the  advance  of  the  disease  the  A'esicles  widen  and  extend 
until  they  may  reach  a  diameter  ranging  from  that  of  a  dime  to  that 
of  a  silver  dollar.  These  rupture  soon  after  their  appearance,  some- 
times on  the  first  day,  more  rarely  on  the  second  or  third  day.  After 
they  have  ruptured,  the  grayish-white  membrane  forming  the  blister 


388  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

may  remain  attached  for  a  day  or  more,  or  disappear  speedily  and 
leave  deeply  reddened,  sensitive  spots  or  erosions,  both  within  the 
mouth  and  upon  the  coronet  and  betAveen  the  claws  of  the  feet. 
Similar  erosions,  which  quickly  form  scabs,  as  a  rule,  may  be  noticed 
in  cases  in  which  the  teats  of  milch  cows  have  become  affected,  and 
instances  are  reported  in  which  sloughing  of  the  tegument  imme- 
diately around  the  lesions  upon  the  udder  has  occurred.  Owing  to 
the  tough,  fibrous  nature  of  the  bovine  skin,  it  is  exceedingly  rare 
for  sloughing  to  occur  upon  any  part  of  the  body  other  than  those 
mentioned. 

The  attack  upon  the  feet  of  an  animal  is  frequently  manifested  in 
all  four  feet  at  once,  but  one  or  more  of  the  feet  may  entirely  escape 
and  remain  unaffected  throughout  the  course  of  the  disease.  The 
ulceration  of  the  interdigital  tissue  may  extend  to  the  ligaments 
of  the  fetlock  or  produce  disease  of  the  joint  or  bone.  As  the  feet 
become  sensitive  and  sore  the  animal  persistently  lies  down,  and  it 
has  been  found  that  bedsores  develop  with  amazing  rapidity  in  all 
such  cases  and  wholly  baffle  all  attempts  at  treatment  until  after  the 
patient  has  regained  its  feet. 

The  disease  may  attack  some  of  the  internal  organs  before  it  ap- 
pears upon  any  of  the  external  tissues.  These  cases  are  verj^  liable 
to  prove  quickly  fatal.  The  animal  dies  from  paralysis  of  the  heart, 
due  to  the  formation  of  poisonous  principles  within  the  sj^stem;  it 
may  suffocate  by  reason  of  the  action  of  these  same  poisons  upon  the 
tissues  of  the  lungs,  or  it  may  choke  to  death  as  a  result  of  paralysis 
of  the  throat. 

In  cases  of  serious  affection  of  the  udder  the  erosions  Avill  often  be 
found  within  the  passages  of  the  teats,  resulting  in  a  "  caked  "  udder, 
and  the  same  toxic  poisoning  Avhich  is  the  cause  of  death  in  the 
apoplectiform  types  just  mentioned  may  arise  from  this  source.  In 
any  event  the  milk  from  such  cases  is  dangerous  for  use,  causing 
fatal  diarrhea  in  sucking  calves  or  young  pigs  and  serious  illness  in 
human  consumers.  The  milk  obtained  from  cows  suffering  with 
foot-and-mouth  disease  is  not  readily  converted  into  either  butter  or 
cheese,  but  remains  thick,  slimy,  and  inert  in  spite  of  churning  and 
attempts  at  curdling.  Pregnant  animals  may  abort.  In  pigs,  sheep, 
and  goats  the  lesions  in  the  foot  are  most  connnon,  but  both  forms 
may  be  observed  or  only  the  mouth  lesions. 

When  the  disease  has  become  fully  established  it  will  be  found  that 
the  duration  of  the  attack  will  vary  greatly  with  different  animals. 
From  10  to  20  days  are  usually  required  for  the  recovery  of  the 
normal  appetite  and  spirits  in  mild  outbreaks,  while  the  return  to  a 
full  ilow  of  milk,  in  the  case  of  milch  cows,  seldom  occurs  before 
the  arrival  of  the  following  season. 


FOOT-AND-MOUTH    DISEASE.  389 

In  the  malignant  type  of  the  disease  it  requires  from  three  months 
to  a  3'ear  for  an  animal  to  recover.  The  mortality,  as  already  stated, 
is  usually  low.  The  disease  is  more  fatal  in  young  animals  that  have 
been  fed  on  infected  milk,  and  produces  death  in  from  60  to  80  per 
cent  of  these  cases  as  a  result  of  gastroenteritis.  In  the  1914  outbreak 
numerous  new  centers  of  infection  started  among  hogs  and  calves 
which  were  fed  on  unpasteurized,  infected  milk  from  creameries. 

Diagnosis. — The  recognition  of  this  a  flection  should  not,  as  a  rule, 
be  difficult,  especially  when  the  disease  is  known  to  be  in  the  vicinity ; 
in  fact,  the  group  of  symptoms  form  a  clinical  picture  too  decided  to 
be  doubted.  The  combination  of  high  fever,  vesicular  inflammation 
of  the  mouth,  and  hot,  painful,  swollen  condition  of  the  feet,  followed 
24  to  48  hours  later  by  the  appearance  of  numerous  blisters  varying 
in  size  from  that  of  a  pea  to  that  of  a  walnut  on  the  udder  and  feet 
and  in  the  mouth  should  prevent  any  serious  or  long-continued  error 
in  the  diagnosis ;  however,  in  the  inoculation  of  calves  we  have  a  cer- 
tain and  final  test.  In  24  to  96  hours  after  inoculation  the  calves 
present  the  characteristic  blisters.  Such  inoculation  should  be  prac- 
ticed, however,  only  by  officials  properly  authorized  to  deal  with 
contagious  diseases. 

Di-lferential  diagnosis. — The  lesions  of  no  other  disease  of  cattle 
closely  simulate  the  vesicular  eruption  of  foot-and-mouth  disease  on 
the  lining  membrane  of  the  mouth.  When  the  blisters  have  ruptured, 
however,  and  the  resulting  lesions  have  become  contaminated  by 
numerous  secondary  forms  of  microorganisms,  the  correct  recogni- 
tion of  the  disease  may  be  involved  in  considerable  difficulty. 

Cowpox  or  horsepox  may  be  accidentally  transmitted  by  inocula- 
tion. But  the  eruption  of  the  "  pox  "  goes  on  to  the  development  of 
a  pustule,  while  in  foot-and-mouth  disease  the  eruption  is  never 
more  than  a  vesicle,  even  though  the  contained  fluid  may  become 
turbid.  The  inoculation  test  in  the  case  of  cowpox  does  not  respond 
with  fever  and  eruption  for  at  least  10  days,  and  often  longer. 

Necrotic  stomatitis  (sore  mouth  due  to  a  germ)  may  be  distin- 
guished from  foot-and-mouth  disease  by  the  fact  that  in  the  latter 
there  is  a  rapid  infection  of  the  entire  herd,  including  the  adult 
cattle,  as  well  as  the  infection  of  hogs  and  sheep.  The  characteristic 
lesion  of  foot-and-mouth  disease  is  the  appearance  of  blisters  con- 
taining a  serous  fluid  upon  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth  and 
upon  the  udder,  teats,  and  feet  of  the  affected  animals.  In  necrotic 
stomatitis  blisters  are  never  formed,  destruction  of  the  tissues  oc- 
curring from  the  beginning  and  l)eing  followed  by  the  formation  of 
3^ellowish,  cheesy  patches,  principally  found  involving  the  lining 
membrane  of  the  mouth,  especially  the  tongue  and  cheeks. 

In  mycotic  stomatitis  (sore  mouth  due  to  a  fungus  or  mold),  por- 
tions of  the  lining  membrane  become  inflamed  and  in  a  few  days  it 


390  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

changes  to  a  croupous  membrane  which  peels  off,  leaving  a  raw  sur- 
face, while  the  thin  skin  between  the  toes  may  also  be  inflamed.  The 
previous  history  of  the  case ;  the  failure  of  the  blisters,  if  any  appear, 
to  spread  extensively;  the  absence  of  vesicular  eruptions  on  other 
portions  of  the  body,  notably  the  udder  and  teats,  and,  characteris- 
tically, the  hoof,  together  with  the  absence  of  rapid  spread  to  prac- 
tically all  cattle  in  the  herd  and  the  complete  negative  character  of 
inoculation  of  calves,  distinguishes  between  the  local  disease  named 
and  foot-and-mouth  disease.  Mycotic  stomatitis  occurs  in  only  from 
10  to  50  per  cent  of  the  animals  in  a  herd,  usually  in  the  late  summer 
or  early  fall  after  a  dry  spell,  and  it  does  not  run  a  regular  course. 

The  lesion  resulting  from  ergotism  may  be  distinguished  from 
those  of  foot-and-mouth  disease  by  the  lack  of  eruptions  in  the  mouth 
and  by  the  location  of  the  disease  at  the  tips  of  the  ears,  end  of  the 
tail,  or  upon  the  lower  part  of  the  legs,  usually  below  the  knees  or 
hocks.  The  lesion  of  ergotism  does  not  take  the  form  of  pustules  or 
blisters,  but  manifests  itself  first  as  a  swelling  about  the  ankle,  which 
later  may  slough  and  circumscribe  the  limb,  forming  a  deep  crack, 
extending  entirely  around  the  limb  and  forming  a  distinct  line  of 
demarcation  between  the  healthy  skin  above  and  the  diseased  below. 
The  absence  of  ulcerous  sores  on  the  coronet  and  between  the  claws, 
together  with  the  healthy  condition  of  the  membranes  of  the  mouth 
and  the  knowledge  that  the  lesion  upon  the  limb  in  question  extends 
uninterruptedly  around  it,  should  point  conclusively  to  a  diagnosis  of 
ergotism  and  to  the  exclusion  of  all  fears  of  foot-and-mouth  disease. 

In  foul  foot  or  ground  itch  of  cattle,  the  inflammation  of  the  skin 
and  toes  is  general  and  not  in  certain  spots,  as  in  foot-and-mouth 
disease.  The  mouth  remains  unaffected,  and  the  presence  of  the  dis- 
ease may  be  traced  to  filth  and  poor  drainage. 

The  severer  forms  of  the  disease  might  be  confounded  with  certain 
general  diseases.  If  gastrointestinal  symptoms  predominate,  acute 
gastric  catarrh  or  inflammation  of  the  intestines  might  be  thought 
of.  Involvement  of  the  lungs  may  lead  to  a  diagnosis  of  acute  con- 
gestion of  the  lungs  or  pneumonia.  The  distinction  is  apparent  in 
these  diseases  by  the  lack  of  vesicular  eruption  on  the  mucous  mem- 
brane or  skin,  and  also  by  lack  of  evidences  of  infection  in  the  herd 
or  neighboring  animals. 

Prevention  and  eradication, — The  measures  to  be  adopted  to  pre- 
vent the  spread  of  the  affection  must  take  into  consideration  the 
highly  infectious  nature  of  the  disease,  its  ease  of  dissemination, 
and  the  liability  of  the  virus  to  live  for  long  periods  outside  the  body 
of  an  animal.  Great  care  should  therefore  be  observed  in  keojung 
healthy  animals  unexposed  to  the  contagion.  When  an  outbreak 
occurs  in  a  community  the  owner  should  make  every  effort  to  keep 
othei'  animals  from  comine;  in  contact  with  his  diseased  cattle.    This 


FOOT-AND-MOUTH    DISEASE.  391 

especially  applies  to  dogs,  cats,  goats,  and  poultry,  which  usually 
have  access  to  the  stables  and  barnyards  and  in  this  way  furnish 
excellent  means  for  disseminating  the  infectious  principle.  He 
should  be  equally  particular  in  prohibiting  any  person  from  coming 
onto  his  premises,  especially  an  attendant  or  owner  or  other  person 
in  any  way  connected  with  cattle.  Such  a  herd  may  be  placed  under 
quarantine,  with  an  inspector  appointed  to  keep  the  premises  under 
constant  surveillance. 

This  method  of  quarantine  alone,  while  very  satisfactory  in  many 
instances,  is  rather  tardy  in  obtaining  the  desired  result.  The 
experience  of  European  Governments  already  mentioned  shows  that 
eradication  by  this  method  alone,  when  the  disease  has  obtained  a 
foothold,  is  practically  impossible.  For  this  reason,  when  the  disease 
breaks  out  in  a  country  like  the  United  States,  where  the  contagion 
is  likel}^  to  spread  rapidly  by  means  of  infected  cars,  manure,  hay, 
and  other  feed,  and  where  the  results  of  its  obtaining  a  firm  foothold 
would  be  so  disastrous,  it  seems  that  this  method  of  temporizing  is 
rather  tedious,  and  more  radical  steps  are  required  in  order  to  sup- 
press and  eradicate  completely  the  infection  in  the  quickest  and  most 
thorough  manner  possible. 

It  would  therefore  appear  better,  after  judicious  appraisement, 
to  concentrate  the  expense  incident  to  the  extermination  of  foot- 
and-mouth  disease  by  purchasing  and  slaughtering  all  affected  and 
exposed  cattle.  The  carcasses  of  these  animals  should  be  totally 
destroyed,  preferably  by  cremation,  or  otherwise  by  burying  them 
in  a  hole  6  feet  deep  and  covering  them  with  air-slaked  lime.  The 
infected  stable  should  be  disinfected  by  thoroughly  cleaning  it, 
scrubbing  the  floor  with  hot  water,  brushing  down  all  loose  dust 
from  the  walls,  and  tearing  off  all  woodwork  which  is  partly  de- 
cayed. Then  the  whole  interior  of  the  stable  should  be  disinfected 
with  one  of  the  following  substances: 

A  5  per  cent  solution  of  pure  carbolic  acid. 

Chlorid  of  lime,  U.  S.  P.  strength  (30  per  cent  available  chlorin), 
1  pound  to  3  gallons  of  water. 

Formaldehyde,  1  quart  40  per  cent  solution  to  5  gallons  of  water. 

A  3  per  cent  solution  of  cresol  compound,  U.  S.  P.,  or  accepted 
substitute  therefor,  containing  at  least  50  per  cent  cresylic   acid. 

All  stable  utensils  should  be  thoroughly  cleaned  and  disinfected 
by  the  application  of  a  solution  of  one  of  the  above-named  dis- 
infectants. The  manure  should  be  burned  or  disinfected  and  spread 
over  ground  (other  than  meadow  land)  that  is  to  be  turned  under. 
No  other  cattle  should  be  purchased  for  at  least  sixty  days  after 
the  complete  disinfection  of  the  premises. 

The  success  in  eradicating  the  disease  by  combined  quarantine, 
slaughter,  and  disinfection,  as  practiced  in  the  United  States,  Den- 


392  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

mark,  Great  Britain,  and  a  few  other  countries,  demonstrates  in  a 
striking  manner  the  efficacy  of  slaughtering  and  the  futility  of  rely- 
ing upon  quarantine  alone  to  stamp  out  the  disease. 

Inoculation  has  been  adopted  in  some  countries  in  order  to  have 
the  disease  spread  quickly  through  the  herds,  and  while  this  practice 
has  undoubted  value  where  the  disease  is  indigenous,  it  is  not  de- 
sirable in  this  country  and  should  not  be  adopted. 

As  a  rule  medicinal  treatment  with  a  view  of  curing  affected  ani- 
mals is  not  to  be  recommended  under  conditions  prevailing  in  the 
United  States,  where  the  disease  has  not  become  established,  and  the 
first  object  is  to  stamp  it  out  as  quickly  as  possible.  Even  though 
most  animals  would  recover,  with  or  without  treatment,  it  would  be 
practically  impossible,  while  they  were  being  held  for  recovery,  to 
prevent  the  spread  of  the  infection  to  others.  The  disease  would 
be  liable  to  spread  faster  than  it  could  be  cured.  As  already  pointed 
out,  it  has  been  found  impossible  to  prevent  absolutely  the  spread 
of  the  contagion  by  the  strictest  quarantine  alone,  under  the  usual 
farm  conditions.  In  addition,  the  affected  animals  that  have  passed 
through  the  disease  may  become  a  source  of  further  infection  as 
virus  carriers  for  weeks  and  months  after  they  have  apparently  re- 
covered, and  are  susceptible  of  reinfection,  as  one  attack  does  not 
confer  permanent  immunit3^       <^^ 

F oot-and-mouth  disease  in  Ttmn. — Foot-and-mouth  disease  is  pri- 
marily and  principally  a  disease  of  cattle ;  secondarily  and  casually, 
a  disease  of  man.  It  is  transmissible  to  man  through  the  eating  or 
drinking  of  raw  milk,  buttermilk,  butter,  cheese,  and  whey  from 
animals  suffering  from  foot-and-mouth  disease.  It  is  also  trans- 
mitted directly,  though  more  rarely,  from  the  salivary  secretions  or 
other  infected  material  which  may  gain  entrance  through  the  mucous 
membrane  of  the  mouth.  It  is  doubtful  whether  the  disease  can  be 
transmitted  to  man  by  cutaneous  or  subcutaneous  inoculation,  though 
it  is  probable  that  the  infection  may  be  communicated  if  the  virus 
directly  enters  the  blood  through  wounds  of  any  kind.  Children 
are  not  infrequently  infected  by  drinking  unboiled  milk  during  the 
periods  in  which  the  disease  is  prevalent  in  the  neighborhood,  while 
persons  in  charge  of  diseased  animals  may  become  infected  through 
contact  with  the  diseased  parts  or  by  milking,  slaughtering,  or  caring 
for  the  animals. 

The  symptoms  in  man  resemble  those  observed  in  animals.  There 
is  fever,  sometimes  vomiting,  painful  swallowing,  heat  and  dryness 
of  the  mouth,  followed  by  an  eruption  of  vesicles  on  the  mucous 
membrane  of  the  mouth,  and  very  rarely  by  similar  ones  on  the 
fingers.  The  vesicles  appear  on  the  lips,  gums,  cheek,  and  edge  of 
the  tongue,  and  are  about  the  size  of  a  pea.  The  vesicles  soon  rup- 
ture, leaving  a  small  erosion  which  is  soon  covered  by  a  thin  crust 


SEPTICEMIA   AND    PYEMIA.  393 

under  which  the  ncAV  formation  of  epithelium  proceeds  rapidly. 
The  skin  eruption  mostly  appears  on  the  hands,  tips  of  the  fingers, 
base  of  the  nails,  and  more  seldom  on  the  toes  and  other  parts  of  the 
body.  Besides  these  local  changes,  during  the  course  of  the  disease 
headache,  pain  in  the  limbs,  vertigo,  abdominal  cramps,  vomiting, 
diarrhea,  and  weakness  are  occasionally  observed.  The  disease  is 
seldom  fatal,  usually  appearing  in  a  very  mild  form  except  in  weak- 
ened children,  in  whom  an  accompanying  intestinal  catarrh  may 
lead  to  a  fatal  termination. 

Veterinarians  w^ho  have  had  considerable  experience  with  the  dis- 
ease among  animals  regard  the  human  affection  as  by  no  means  un- 
common in  countries  where  foot-and-mouth  disease  prevails,  but 
the  disturbance  of  health  is  usually  too  slight  to  come  to  the  notice 
of  the  family  physician. 

But  few  outbreaks  of  the  disease  in  man  have  occurred  in  the 
United  States,  and  therefore  cases  of  its  transmission  to  man  in 
this  country  are  rather  rare.  Dr.  James  Law  reports  having  ob- 
served the  disease  in  man  from  drinking  infected  milk  during  the 
epizootic  of  1870  in  the  Eastern  States,  but  the  outbreaks  of  1880 
and  1884  affected  such  a  small  number  of  animals  and  were  so 
quickly  suppressed  that  no  kj^tance  of  its  transmission  to  man  was 
recorded.  A  few  cases  have  been  reported  by  Brush  accompanying 
the  New  England  outbreak  of  1902.  Similar  reports  have  been  like- 
wise received  concerning  the  appearance  of  vesicular  eruptions  in 
the  mouths  of  children  during  the  1908  and  1914  outbreaks,  and  the 
history  of  these  cases  incriminates  the  milk  supply. 

Experiments  by  Loeffler  and  Froesch,  as  well  as  recent  experiments 
which  have  been  made  in  Denmark  and  Germany,  indicate  that  the 
infection  is  comparatively  easy  to  destroy  by  heat  or  the  usual  anti- 
septics. Milk  pasteurized  at  a  temperature  of  60°  C.  for  20  minutes 
is  safe  so  far  as  infection  by  foot-and-mouth  disease  is  concerned. 

SEPTICEMIA  AND  PYEMIA. 

These  two  names  are  applied  to  diseased  conditions  Avhich  are  so 
nearly  alike  in  their  symptoms  that  it  is  sometimes  difficult  to  distin- 
guish the  one  from  the  other.  Indeed,  the  name  pyosepticemia,  or 
septicopyemia,  is  often  applied  when  it  is  impossible  to  make  a  dis- 
tinction between  septicemia  and  pyemia  or  where  each  is  equally 
responsible  for  the  diseased  condition.  The  name  septicemia  is  de- 
rived from  two  Greek  w^ords  meaning  "  poison  "  and  "  blood,"  and 
signifies  that  the  germ  lives  in  the  blood,  hence  the  use  of  the  term 
"  blood  poisoning  "  for  this  disease.  Pyemia  is  likewise  derived  from 
two  Greek  words,  meaning  "  pus  "  and  "  blood,"  and  is  that  form  of 
septicemia  caused  by  pus-producing  organisms  and  characterized  by 
secondarv  abscesses. 


394  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

Causes. — Neither  of  these  diseases  is  brought  about,  strictly  speak- 
ing, by  any  specific  organism ;  hence  neither  can  be  looked  upon  as  a 
specific  disease.  The  organisms  most  frequently  found  in  cases  of 
septicemia  are,  on  the  whole,  the  same  as  those  of  pyemia,  and  may 
be  pus  cocci,  the  bacillus  coli,  or  other  pus-producing  organisms. 
These  organisms  are  often  found  as  secondary  invaders  in  other  dis- 
eases, such  as  advanced  cases  of  tuberculosis,  in  which  cases  they  are 
responsible  for  the  formation  of  pus. 

Aside  from  the  causative  organism,  or,  in  other  words,  the  active 
cause,  there  are  many  secondary  causes.  The  most  important  of  these 
in  pyemia  is  a  break  in  continuity  of  the  protective  covering,  as  a 
wound,  which  affords  an  entrance  into  the  tissues  for  the  organisms. 
Among  the  different  varieties  of  wounds  may  be  mentioned  cuts, 
bruises,  punctures,  bums,  chemical  or  frozen  wounds,  and  compound 
fractures  of  bones.  Injuries  received  during  parturition,  stoppage 
of  the  milk  ducts,  and  infection  of  the  umbilicus  in  the  newly  born 
are  also  frequent  causes  of  pyemia.  Septicemia  usually  follows  sur- 
gical wounds,  local  suppuration,  enteritis,  bronchitis — in  fact,  wher- 
ever there  is  a  local  lesion  of  any  kind  permitting  germs  to  enter  the 
blood.  Septicemia  was  formerly  applied  to  designate  the  condition 
in  which  the  organisms  were  localized,  but  in  which  their  toxins  were 
diffused  in  the  blood.  Pyemia  was  made  to  represent  that  condition 
when  the  organisms  were  localized,  but  in  which  the  pus  was  trans- 
ported by  the  blood.  These  terms  now  are  applied  to  conditions  in 
which  both  the  organisms  and  their  toxins,  or  the  pus,  are  present 
in  the  blood.  The  term  septicemia  is  indicated  when  intoxication 
is  the  more  pronounced  symptom  and  pyemia  if  pus  formation  and 
metastatic  or  secondary  abscess  formation  are  observed. 

/SyTnptoTrhS. — The  symptoms  of  both  diseases  include  primarily  a 
high  fever  (104°  to  107°  F.).  Coupled  with  this  there  is  disinclina- 
tion to  move,  the  animal  is  depressed  and  not  cognizant  of  its  sur- 
roundings. The  pulse  is  rapid,  small,  and  feeble,  respiration  in- 
creased, mucous  membrane  injected,  swollen,  and  of  a  yellowish 
tinge.  Appetite  is  lost  and  death  follows  in  the  case  of  septicemia  in 
from  tvro  to  four  days.  In  pyemia  the  symptoms  come  on  more 
slowly  and  are  not  so  intense  as  in  septicemia,  while  the  course  of  the 
disease  is  longer,  lasting  from  six  days  to  four  weeks.  The  mortality 
is  not  so  great  as  in  septicemia,  but  the  period  of  convalescence  is 
always  long. 

Lesio7is. — Septicemia  is  characterized  by  the  destructive  changes 
in  the  blood,  which  is  chocolate  colored,  noncoagulable,  and  swarms 
with  bacteria.  The  lining  membranes  of  the  heart  are  studded  with 
red  spits,  often  running  together  to  form  a  largo  hemorrliagic  area. 
The  lungs,  liver,  and  kidneys  may  also  show  these  hemorrhages. 
The  spleen  is  enlarged  and  f\dl  of  black  blood.     The  cadaver  do- 


HEMORRHAGIC    SEPTICEMIA.  395 

composes  very  rapidly  and  in  some  cases  forms  great  quantities  of 
fetid  gas.  In  pyemia,  in  addition  to  these  lesions,  abscesses  are 
formed  in  the  various  organs  throughout  the  body.  If  the  disease 
develops  slowly  a  post-mortem  examination  shows  the  abscesses  to  be 
the  chief  alterations.  The  pus  content  is  usually  greenish,  stained 
with  blood,  and  contains  strings  of  fibrous  tissue  and  necrosed  matter. 
Treatment. — Treatment  is  almost  futile  in  advanced  cases  of  either 
disease.  Septicemia  is  usually  fatal  and  pyemia  frequently  so.  Pre- 
vention and  the  immediate  treatment  of  local  infections  are  the 
surest  means  of  combating  them.  For  local  treatment  of  wounds 
the  usual  antiseptics  are  indicated,  such  as  3  per  cent  compound 
cresol  or  carbolic  acid,  or  one  one-thousandth  bichlovid-of-mercury 
solution.  For  pyemia,  where  the  abscesses  are  near  the  skin,  they 
should  be  opened  and  treated  antiseptically  by  injecting  any  of  the 
previously  mentioned  germicides.  General  and  heart  stimulants  are 
indicated,  such  as  a  drench  containing  digitalis  2  drams  and  alcohol 
2  ounces.  Quinin  and  calomel  in  repeated  small  doses  of  one-half 
dram  each  three  times  a  day  are  sometimes  beneficial.  Camphor  in 
the  form  of  oil  of  camphor  (camphor  dissolved  in  10  parts  of  sweet 
oil)  is  a  good  stimulant  and  has  some  antiseptic  properties,  which 
make  it  a  valuable  drug  in  combating  these  diseases  when  it  is  given 
in  doses  of  2  drams  three  times  daily. 

HEMORRHAGIC  SEPTICEMIA. 

Hemorrhagic  septicemia  is  a  name  applied  to  a  highly  fatal,  infec- 
tious disease  existing  in  various  species  of  domestic  and  wild  animals, 
from  a  microorganism  having  definite  biological  characters  and 
possessing  the  properties  of  producing  clearly  defined  and  charac- 
teristic lesions. 

This  causal  agent.  Bacterium  hovisepticum,  belongs  to  the  same 
group  of  cocco-bacilli  as  those  causing  chicken  cholera,  swine  plague, 
and  rabbit  septicemia,  and  may  be  described  as  an  ovoid,  nonmotile, 
polar-staining  bacterium  with  rounded  ends,  ^g^^p  of  an  inch  wide  by 
-^0^00  of  an  inch  long,  sometimes  seen  in  pairs  and  sometimes  in 
chains. 

Various  names  have  been  applied  to  this  disease,  and  though  the 
causatiA'e  agent  and  the  distinctive  lesions  are  well  known,  it  is  more 
than  likely  that  the  affection  is  seldom  recognized.  It  Avas  described 
by  Bollinger  in  1878,  and  named  Wild  und  Rinderseuche,  from  its 
having  affected  deer,  wild  boars,  cattle,  and  horses  in  an  epizootic 
which  swept  over  Germany  at  that  time.  Before  this,  however,  sev- 
eral epizootics  of  what  was  evidently  the  same  disease  had  been  well 
described,  notably  that  which  occurred  in  England  in  1854.  Since 
then  it  has  occurred  in  epizootic  and  enzootic  forms  in  many  sections 


396  .  DISEASES   OF    CaITLE. 

of  Europe,  Asia,  Africa,  and  America.  In  this  countrj'^  the  disease 
has  been  observed  in  Texas,  Tennessee,  New  York,  Minnesota,  Penn- 
sylvania, District  of  Columbia,  South  Dakota,  and  Wisconsin.  Other 
names  given  to  it  are  game  and  cattle  disease,  buffalo  disease,  bar- 
bone,  pasteurellosis  bovina,  ghotwa,  and  infectious  pneumoenteritis. 

In  earlier  times  it  was  evidently  confounded  with  gloss  anthrax, 
and  even  now  it  is  probably  mistaken  in  a  great  many  instances  for 
anthrax,  blackleg,  cornstalk  disease,  and  cerebrospinal  meningitis. 

The  disease  is  essentially  a  septicemia,  or  blood  poisoning,  and  the 
niicrobic  invasion  occurs  from  inoculation  proljably  either  through 
abrasions  of  the  skin  or  by  injury  to  the  mucous  membranes  from 
coarse  fodder^  etc.  Moore  and  Smith  have  found  in  the  mouths  and 
nasal  cavities  of  health}^  animals,  including  cattle,  bacteria  belong- 
ing to  this  group;  but  these  organisms  proved  to  be  nonpathogenic. 
As  is  well  known,  however,  many  pathogenic  germs  at  times  exist  in 
a  saprophytic  state,  and  it  is  not  hard  to  conceive  how  a  microbe  may 
cease  such  existence  and  assume  parasitic  or  pathogenic  properties 
when  the  surroundings  are  eminently  favorable.  This  may  be  a 
connecting  link  in  the  etiology  of  sporadic  outbreaks  of  the  disease 
in  which  all  other  hypotheses  as  to  its  genesis  seem  untenable.  The 
disease  seems  to  occur  most  frequently  in  swampy  or  mucky  locali- 
ties or  in  pastures  receiving  the  overflow  from  infected  fields.  It  is 
said  to  occur  usually  in  the  spring  of  the  year,  when  the  melting 
snows  and  rains  bring  to  the  surface  the  subterranean  waters  from 
rich  soils  containing  nitrogenous  materials  in  which  the  bacteria 
have  been  existing.  In  a  great  many  instances  there  does  not  seem 
to  be  any  plausible  explanation  for  an  outbreak  of  the  disease  and 
one  can  only  surmise  as  to  its  origin. 

Sy)nptom.s. — Three  forms  of  the  disease  are  recognized,  based  upon 
the  distribution  of  the  lesions — the  superficial,  or  cutaneous,  the  pec- 
toral, or  thoracic,  and  the  intestinal  form.  The  latter  is  a  usual 
accompaniment  of  the  other  two  and  may  be  mild  or  severe.  Natu- 
rally the  symptoms  vary  according  to  the  A'iolence  of  the  attack  and 
to  the  particular  form  of  disease  with  which  the  animal  is  affected. 
In  the  superficial,  or  cutaneous,  form  the  presence  of  a  swollen  tongue, 
throat,  and  dewlap,  or  even  of  the  lower  portion  of  the  legs,  gives  us 
a  clew  to  the  trouble.  An  entire  loss  of  appetite  occurs,  and  in  milch 
cows  there  is  a  diminution  of  the  milk  secretion.  The  temperature 
may  be  only  slightly  elevated,  but  it  is  usually  very  high.  Salivation 
is  set  up  by  the  inflammation  of  the  mouth  and  pharynx.  Unsuc- 
cessful efforts  at  eating  and  swallowing  are  made.  There  may  be 
difficulty  in  breathing,  depending  on  the  amoimt  of  involvement  of 
the  larynx,  trachea,  bronclii,  or  lungs.  There  may  be  a  blood-stained 
discharge  from  the  nostrils,  and  the  mucous  membrane  thereof  will 
often  show  punctiform  hemorrhages.     The  pulmonary  form  shows 


HEMOBRHAGIC    SEPTICEMIA.  397 

the  same  symptoms  as  croupous  pneumonia,  with  a  frequent  suffo- 
cative cough  and  oppressed  breathing,  or  dyspnea.  When  the  in- 
testines are  involved  the  patient  strains  to  defecate,  and  passes  shreds 
of  intestinal  mucus  along  with  blood-stained  feces.  The  urine  also 
may  be  tinged  with  blood.  Finally  a  severe  diarrhea  takes  place,  the 
animal  becomes  correspondingh'^  weak,  and  death  takes  place  in  24 
to  30  hours.  Cases  may  die  in  as  short  a  period  as  six  to  eight  hours, 
while  in  the  pectoral  form  of  the  disease  the  animal  ma}^  linger  six 
or  eight  days.  Cases  have  been  reported  which  became  chronic  and 
in  which  death  did  not  take  place  for  a  month  or  more.  In  some  of 
the  cases  running  an  acute  course,  symptoms  of  toxemia  are  present; 
there  is  a  lack  of  sensation  of  the  skin,  staggering  gait,  trembling, 
eyes  fixed,  neck  at  times  bent  to  one  side,  and  the  eyes  showing  a  wild 
expression.  At  times  the  animals  appear  as  if  in  pain  and  look 
around  at  the  flanks.  In  the  pectoral  form  they  may  stand  with  the 
forelegs  wide  apart  in  evident  effort  to  breathe  more  freely.  Some- 
times there  is  a  champing  of  the  jaws  and  a  very  free  flow  of  glairy 
saliva  dropping  from  the  mouth. 

The  prognosis  is  decidedly  unfavorable  and  80  to  90  per  cent  of 
the  cases  result  fatally. 

Lesions. — The  characteristic  lesions  of  hemorrhagic  septicemia  con- 
sist of  hemorrhagic  areas  in  the  subcutaneous,  subserous,  and  muscu- 
lar tissues,  the  lymph  glands,  and  the  viscera;  in  fact,  they  are 
distributed  more  or  less  widely  throughout  the  body  and  vary  in  size 
from  a  mere  speck  to  the  diameter  of  a  half  dollar  or  even  larger. 
The  superficial  form  presents  itself  first  as  a  doughy  tumefaction  of 
the  skin  about  the  region  of  the  throat,  neck,  dewlap,  or  legs,  which 
pits  on  pressure.  This  tiunefaction  consists  essentially  of  a  cero- 
gelatinous  exudate  into  the  subcutaneous  and  intermuscular  tissues. 

Bloody  extravasations  may  take  place  in  subcutaneous  tissues  in 
various  places,  but  they  are  usually  seen  about  the  lower  portion 
of  the  neck.  The  mucous  membranes  and  submucous  tissues  of  the 
mouth,  tongue,  pharynx,  and  larynx  become  involved  in  the  process 
and  are  greatly  thickened,  inflamed,  and  infiltrated  with  serum.  The 
mucous  membrane  becomes  reddish  purple,  and  that  of  the  nostrils 
may  in  addition  show  hemorrhagic  spots  on  its  surface.  The  lym- 
phatic glands  in  this  region  are  also  swollen  and  infiltrated  with 
bloody  serum.  The  salivary  glands  are  pale  and  dry.  The  pectoral 
type,  though  at  times  existing  alone,  may  coexist  with  the  cutaneous 
form.  The  inflammatory  edema  of  the  mouth  extends  to  the  mucous 
membrane  of  the  trachea  and  bronchi,  producing  an  extensive  thick- 
ening and  a  yellow^ish  infiltration.  The  lung  shows  interstitial  thick- 
ening from  the  outpouring  of  serum  into  its  meshes.  It  may  become 
pneumonic. 


398  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

The  diaphragm,  heart  sac,  and  heart  walls  show  numerous  hemor- 
rhagic points  and  larger  bloody  extravasations.  Sometimes  there  is 
a  serous  pleurisy,  with  more  or  less  fibrinous  exudate.  In  the  intes- 
tinal form  the  submucous  and  subperitoneal  tissues  show  alterations 
from  a  few  hemorrhagic  spots  to  large  bloody  suffusions,  or  even 
gelatinous  infiltrations.  This  latter  is  seen  about  the  region  of  the 
pancreas  and  in  the  folds  of  the  mesentery.  There  is  a  severe  hemor- 
rhagic inflammation  of  the  intestines  and  a  staining  of  the  intestinal 
contents  with  blood.  The  muscular  system  throughout  shows  hemor- 
rhagic areas.  The  abdominal  viscera,  liver,  spleen,  and  kidneys  often 
present  hemorrhagic  lesions. 

Differential  diagnosis. — Anthrax,  which  presents  superficial  swell- 
ings, like  hemorrhagic  septicemia,  may  be  distinguished  from  that 
affection  on  post-mortem  examination  by  the  enlargement  and  en- 
gorgement of  the  spleen,  the  contents  of  which  are  soft  and  tarry. 
The  blood  of  anthrax  animals  is  very  dark,  and  does  not  become  light 
red  on  exposure  to  air,  nor  does  it  coagulate,  while  in  hemorrhagic 
septicemia  the  blood  is  normal  in  appearance  and  coagulates.  The 
detection  of  the  anthrax  bacillus  in  the  blood  would  be  final. 

In  blackleg  the  animals  affected  are  usually  under  2  years  of  age. 
The  swellings  are  quite  evident,  and  usually  occur  on  the  legs,  above 
the  knees  or  hocks,  and  are  distended  with  gas,  which  crackles,  or 
crepitates,  when  pressed  upon.  If  one  of  these  tumors  is  opened, 
a  bloody  serum  will  exude,  and  the  gas  gives  off  the  odor,  of  rancid 
butter.  The  internal  hemorrhages  are  not  general,  although  they 
may  occur.  A  microscopic  examination  of  the  juices  from  the  tume- 
faction will  show  the  blackleg  bacillus. 

In  cerebrospinal  meningitis  the  causative  agent  is  unknown,  but 
probably  exists  in  the  feed.  It  may  occur  in  any  locality  and  at  any 
season  of  the  year.  There  are  no  local  swellings,  and  cattle  are  not 
frequently  affected. 

Cornstalk  disease  may  be  differentiated  from  this  affection  from 
the  fact  that  it  always  occurs  after  the  cattle  are  turned  into  a  corn- 
stalk field,  by  its  sudden  onset,  the  absence  of  any  characteristic 
symptoms  or  post-mortem  lesions,  and  the  failure  to  find  the  causative 
agent  in  the  blood. 

In  making  a  post-mortem  examination  of  animals  affected  with 
hemorrhagic  septicemia,  it  would  be  well  to  examine  the  articular 
surfaces  of  the  long  bones,  as  it  has  been  reported  that  they  are  fre- 
quently ulcerated.  This  should  apply  especially  to  those  cases  that 
have  shown  lameness. 

Treatment. — Treatment  is  absolutely  useless,  so  far  as  we  know  at 
present,  and  for  all  practical  purposes  prophylaxis  alone  should  be 
relied  upon.  The  same  sanitary  precautions,  such  as  isolation,  dis- 
infection, and  burial  or  burning   of  all  dead   carcasses,  should  be 


VESICULAR   ERUPTIOlsr    OF    THE    GEIsriTAL    ORGANS.  399 

observed  as  for  anthrax  and  other  highly  infectious  diseases.  All 
the  premises,  barns,  stalls,  litter,  and  stable  utensils  should  be 
thoroughly  disinfected.  Separate  the  apparently  well  animals  from 
the  sick  by  placing  them  in  a  separate  lot. 

Experiments  by  the  Bureau  of  Animal  Industry  toward  protective 
inoculation  of  the  exposed  cattle  on  infected  premises  have  been  made 
and  the  results  have  been  so  satisfactory  that  commercial  houses 
handling  biological  products  are  now  manufacturing  a  vaccine  for 
hemorrhagic  septicemia  in  accordance  with  the  Government's  experi- 
ments on  this  subject.  The  method  of  preparing  the  vaccine  is  simi- 
lar to  that  recommended  by  Lignieres.  It  consists  in  growing  the 
cultures  of  the  organism  of  the  disease  at  42  to  43°  C.  and  preparing 
from  them  growing  at  this  temperature  two  different  strengths  of 
vaccine.  The  weaker  vaccine,  which  is  used  for  the  first  injection, 
is  grown  for  five  days  at  this  temperature,  whereas  the  stronger 
vaccine,  for  the  second  injection,  is  grown  for  only  two  days.  These 
vaccines  are  used  with  an  interval  of  10  days  between  the  injections, 
the  dose  being  1  cubic  centimeter  at  each  injection.  The  effect  of 
this  vaccine  in  abating  outbreaks  already  in  progress  has  been  highly 
satisfactory  and  it  is  plain  that  the  general  introduction  of  preventive 
vaccination  for  hemorrhagic  septicemia  must  be  of  material  benefit 
to  the  cattle  raisers  in  the  infected  districts. 

VESICULAR  ERUPTION  OF  THE  GENITAL  ORGANS. 

This  contagious  disease  is  called  coital  exanthema  or  vesicular 
exanthema,  and  is  more  or  less  prevalent  on  the  Continent.  It  has 
also  been  observed  in  the  breeding  districts  of  the  United  States  It 
is  the  subject  of  legislation  in  Germany,  and  governmental  statistics 
are  published  annually  concerning  its  distribution  in  the  Empire. 
According  to  the  reports  from  Hungary  492  head  of  cattle  were 
attacked  during  1898,  587  in  1899,  and  207  in  1900. 

A  similar  or  perhaps  identical  disease  of  horses  has  the  same  dis- 
tribution and  is  transmissible  from  horses  to  cattle  and  vice  versa. 

The  disease  may  be  defined  as  a  highly  contagious  eruption  situated 
upon  the  external  genital  organs  of  both  sexes  and  accompanied  with 
little  or  no  general  disturbance  of  health.  The  contagion,  the  nature 
of  which  remains  still  unknown,  is  transmitted  mainly  during  copula- 
tion. The  bull  may  have  the  disease  and  convey  it  to  all  the  cows 
with  which  he  comes  in  contact,  or  he  may  become  infected  by  one 
coAv,  and,  although  not  showing  the  disease,  he  may,  during  copula- 
tion, transmit  it  for  several  days  after  to  all  other  cows.  Simple 
contact  between  one  cow  and  another  may  convey  the  disease,  or  the 
sponges  used  in  cleaning  the  diseased  may  carry  the  virus  to  the 
healthy.  It  has  also  been  conveyed  to  healthy  cows  by  these  animals 
lying  with  their  hind  quarters  against  infected  wooden  troughs. 


400  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

Symptoms. — The  period  between  the  infection  and  the  appearance 
of  symptoms  is  somewhat  variable.  It  is  usually  given  as  three  to 
six  days.  It  may  be  briefer  or  much  longer.  In  cows  the  mucous 
membrane  of  the  vagina  and  the  vulva  become  swollen,  inflamed, 
very  tender,  and  covered  with  dark-red  spots.  The  secretion  is  very 
abundant  and  consists  at  first  largely  of  serum  and  mucus  resem- 
bling the  white  of  an  egg.  Small  vesicles  then  appear,  which  rapidly 
burst  and  are  converted  into  excoriations  or  deeper  ulcerations. 
The  secretion  becomes  more  purulent  and  is  apt  to  dry  in  crusts 
about  the  root  of  the  tail.  The  eruption  is  accompanied  with  much 
itching  and  difficulty  in  urinating.  The  Avalk  may  be  stiff  and  awk- 
ward. In  bulls  the  eruption  is  situated  on  the  prepuce  and  the  end 
of  the  penis,  and  consists  of  pimples,  vesicles,  and  ulcers,  as  in 
cows.  It  is  accompanied  with  a  little  purulent  discharge  from  the 
prepuce,  itching,  and  difficulty  in  urinating.  In  severe  cases  the 
inflammation  and  swelling  may  extend  backward  to  the  scrotum  and 
forward  upon  the  abdomen. 

The  disease  lasts  from  one  to  four  weeks  and  alwaj'^s  terminates  in 
recovery.  The  acute  stage  lasts  only  four  or  five  days,  while  the 
complete  healing  of  the  inflammation  is  slow.  The  eruption  is  usu- 
ally accompanied  with  very  little  general  disturbance.  If  the  pain 
and  irritation  are  severe,  there  may  be  some  light  loss  of  appetite  and 
diminished  milk  secretion  in  cows.  The  disease  rarely  causes  abor- 
tion. Chronic  catarrh  of  the  vagina  and  permanent  sterility  fre- 
quently follow  as  sequelfe. 

Treatraent  need  not  be  resorted  to  excepting  in  severe  cases.  The 
secretion  and  exudation  should  be  washed  off  and  a  mild  antiseptic 
applied,  such  as  a  1  per  cent  solution  of  carbolic  acid  (1  ounce  to  3 
quarts  of  water)  or  2  per  cent  solution  of  cresol  compound  in  water. 
Care  must  be  taken  not  to  carry  the  disease  from  the  sick  to  the  well 
by  sponges,  etc.,  AThich  have  come  in  contact  with  the  affected  organs. 
These  should  be  destroyed.  To  prevent  the  spread  of  the  disease  the 
infected  animals  should  be  kept  isolated  until  they  have  recovered. 

RABIES  OF  CATTLE. 

Rabies  is  a  disease  preeminently  affecting  the  canine  race,  although 
all  warm-blooded  animals,  including  man,  are  susceptible  to  the  mal- 
ady, which  is  always  communicated  through  bites  from  a  preceding 
case.  It  has  required  many  years  of  patient,  scientific  research  to 
lead  the  ablest  investigators  to  a  clear  comprehension  of  the  cause, 
nature,  and  characteristics  of  this  affection.  It  was  known  and  de- 
scribed several  centuries  prior  to  the  beginning  of  the  Christian  era, 
and  from  the  earliest  dawn  of  history  it  has  been  feared  and  dreaded. 
Its  terrible  manifestations  have  always  been  surrounded  with   an 


RABIES.  401 

atmosphere  of  awe  and  mystery,  and  it  is  not  surprising  that  myths, 
fallacies,  and  misconceptions  in  regard  to  it  have  been  common  and 
widely  accepted.  As  the  investigations  by  which  we  have  come  to 
a  tolerably  clear  understanding  of  the  facts  concerning  rabies  have 
been  comparatively  recent,  and  for  the  most  part,  have  appeared  in 
scientific  periodicals,  fallacies  in  regard  to  the  disease  continue  to 
have  a  strong  hold  upon  the  public  mind.  For  instance,  it  is  still  a 
widely  prevalent  belief  that  if  persons  or  animals  are  bitten  by  a 
dog  they  are  liable  to  become  rabid  if  the  dog  should  contract  the 
disease  at  any  future  time.  There  is  no  foundation  for  this  impres- 
sion, and  it  would  be  a  great  comfort  to  many  people  who  are  now 
and  then  bitten  by  animals  if  the  fallacy  of  this  idea  were  known. 
All  experience,  both  scientific  and  practical,  goes  to  show  that  rabies 
is  transmitted  only  by  animals  that  are  actually  diseased  at  the  time 
the  bite  is  inflicted.  Rabies  is  an  infectious  disease  involving  the 
nervous  system  and  characterized  by  extreme  excitability  and  other 
nervous  disorders  and  always  terminating  in  death.  The  contagion 
of  this  disease  has  never  been  isolated,  but  the  fact  that  it  is  caused 
by  a  specific  organism  principally  found  in  the  nervous  system  is 
indisputable.  For  instance,  if  an  emulsion  of  the  brain  of  a  rabid 
animal  is  filtered  through  a  germ-proof  filter,  the  filtrate  will  be 
harmless.  This  fact  indicates  that  the  infectious  principle  is  not 
in  solution,  but  is  an  organism  withheld  from  the  filtrate  by  the 
filter.  This  contagion  can  be  propagated  only  in  the  body  of  an 
animal.  It  is  transmitted  naturally  from  one  animal  to  another 
solely  by  bites,  and  the  old  idea  of  spontaneous  appearance  of  the 
disease  is  absolutely  fallacious.  It  may  be  produced  artificially  by 
inoculating  susceptible  animals  with  an  emulsion  of  the  brain  or 
spinal  cord,  as  well  as  the  saliva,  milk,  and  other  secretions  of  the 
affected  animal.  The  blood,  on  the  contrary,  seems  to  be  free  from 
the  infectious  principle.  The  saliva  contains  the  virus,  which,  under 
natural  conditions,  is  introduced  into  or  under  the  skin  on  the  tooth 
of  the  rabid  animal.  The  disease  is  widespread,  being  found  in 
many  countries  of  Europe,  Asia,  and  Africa,  and  in  certain  sections 
of  the  United  States. 

Owing  to  the  rigid  quarantine  regulations  enforced  against  dogs 
imported  into  Australia,  that  country  remains  absolutely  free  from 
the  disease.  Following  the  canine  race,  cattle  seem  to  be  the  most 
frequently  affected,  probably  because  rabid  dogs,  next  to  their  mor- 
bid desire  to  attack  other  members  of  their  own  race,  have  a  better 
opportunity  to  bite  grazing  cattle  than  any  other  species  of  animal. 
The  relative  frequency  of  rabies*  in  these  two  species  of  animals  is 
indicated  by  the  carefully  compiled  statistics  of  the  German  Empire, 
which  shows  that  904  dogs  and  223  cows  died  of  rabies  in  1898,  while 
33071°— 16 26 


402  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

in  1899  there  were  911  cases  in  dogs  and  171  in  cattle.  The  latter 
receive  bites  most  frequentl}^  on  the  hind  legs  and  in  the  hips  and 
about  the  lower  jaw.  These  places  are  most  accessible  to  dogs,  owing 
to  the  habit  of  cattle  to  drive  their  tormentors  away  by  lowering 
their  heads  and  using  their  horns.  Every  animal  bitten  does  not 
necessarily  develop  the  disease,  but  the  per  cent  of  fatalities  has 
been  variously  estimated,  and  averages  from  25  to  30.  This,  how- 
ever, depends  on  the  location  and  size  of  the  wound  as  well  as  the 
amount  of  hemorrhage  produced,  and  various  other  conditions.  In 
general,  the  nearer  the  bite  is  located  to  the  central  nervous  system 
and  the  deeper  the  wound  inflicted,  the  greater  the  danger  of  a  fatal 
result.  In  cases  in  which  the  hemorrhage  resulting  from  the  bite  is 
profuse,  there  is  a  possibility  that  the  virus  wdll  be  w^ashed  out  of 
the  wound  and  thus  obviate  the  danger  of  subsequent  appearance  of 
the  disease. 

The  virus  after  being  deposited  in  the  wound  remains  latent  for  an 
extremely  variable  period  of  time,  which  also  depends  on  the  size 
and  depth  of  the  wound  as  well  as  its  location  and  the  amount  of 
the  virulent  saliva  introduced.  Experiments  have  proved  that  the 
virus  follows  the  course  of  the  nerves  to  the  spinal  cord  and  along 
the  latter  to  the  brain  before  the  symptoms  appear.  Gerlach,  ha^dng 
collected  the  statistics  from  133  cases,  has  found  this  time,  known 
as  the  period  of  incubation,  to  vary  from  14  to  285  da3^s.  The  great 
majority  of  cases,  however,  contract  the  disease  in  one  to  three 
months  after  the  bite  has  been  inflicted. 

Symjytoms. — As  in  dogs,  both  furious  and  dumb  rabies  are  met 
with,  the  former  being  more  common  in  cattle.  A  sharp  line  of 
distinction,  however,  can  not  be  drawn  between  these  two  forms 
of  the  disease,  as  the  furious  form  usually  merges  into  the  dumb, 
from  the  paralysis  which  appears  prior  to  death.  The  typical  cases 
of  dumb  rabies  are  those  in  which  the  paralysis  appears  at  the  begin- 
ning of  the  attack  and  remains  until  death.  The  disease  first  mani- 
fests itself  by  a  loss  of  appetite  and  rumination,  stopping  of  the 
secretion  of  milk,  great  restlessness,  anxiety,  manifestation  of  fear, 
and  change  in  the  disposition  of  the  animal.  This  preliminary 
stage  is  followed  in  a  day  or  two  by  the  stage  of  excitation,  or 
madness,  which  is  indicated  by  increasing  restlessness,  loud  roar- 
ing at  times  with  a  peculiar  change  in  the  sound  of  the  voice,  vio- 
lent butting  with  the  horns  and  pawdng  the  ground  with  the  feet, 
Avith  an  insane  tendency  to  attack  other  animals,  although  the 
desire  to  bite  is  not  so  marked  in  cattle  as  in  the  canine  race.  A 
constant  symptom  is  the  increased  secretion  of  saliva  with  a  con- 
sequent frothing  at  the  mouth,  or  the  secretion  may  hang  from 
tlie  lips  in  long  strings.  Constipation  is  marked,  and  there  is  mani- 
fested   a    continual,    although    unsuccessful,    desire    to    defecate. 


RABIES.  403 

Spasms  of  the  muscles  in  different  parts  of  the  body  are  also  seen 
at  intervals.  About  the  fourth  day  the  animal  usually  becomes 
quieter  and  the  walk  is  stiff,  unsteady,  and  swaying,  showing  that 
the  final  paralysis  is  coming  on.  This  is  called  the  paralytic  stage. 
The  loss  of  flesh  is  extremely  rapid,  and  even  during  the  short 
course  of  the  disease  the  animal  becomes  exceedingly  emaciated. 
The  temperature  is  never  elevated,  it  usually  i-emaining  about  nor- 
mal or  even  subnormal.  Finally,  there  is  complete  paralysis  of 
the  hind  quarters,  the  animal  being  unable  to  rise,  and  but  for 
irregular  convulsive  movements  lies  in  a  comatose  condition  and 
dies  usualh^  from  the  fourth  to  the  sixth  day  after  the  appearance 
of  the  first  symptom. 

Anatomy. — If  animals  which  have  succumbed  to  rabies  are  ex- 
amined post  mortem,  very  slight  evidence  of  disease  will  be  found 
in  any  of  the  organs,  and,  indeed,  the  absence  of  any  specific  lesions 
may  be  considered  as  characteristic.  The  blood  is  dark  and  imper- 
fectly coagulated.  The  throat  is  frequently  reddened,  and  there 
may  be  small  spots  of  extravasated  blood  in  the  intestines.  The 
stomachs  are  usually  empty.  In  the  spleen  there  may  be  hemor- 
rhagic enlargements  (infarcts).  The  cadavers  rapidly  undergo 
decomposition. 

Different'ml  diagnosis. — It  is  not  an  easy  matter  to  decide  definitely 
that  a  given  animal  has  rabies,  since  the  symptoms  given  above  be- 
long in  part  to  a  variety  of  other  diseases,  among  which  may  be  men- 
tioned the  excitement  seen  in  young  animals  following  close  confine- 
ment, certain  vegetable  and  mineral  poisons,  acute  enteritis,  and 
alterations  of  the  central  nervous  system  in  cattle,  the  most  common 
of  which  is  tuberculosis  of  the  brain  and  its  covering  membranes. 
The  post-mortem  lesions,  however,  should  assist  in  making  a  correct 
diagnosis.  Tetanus  may  readily  be  differentiated  from  rabies  by  the 
persistence  of  muscular  cramps,  especially  of  the  face  and  abdomen, 
which  cause  these  muscles  to  become  set  and  as  hard  as  wood.  In 
tetanus  there  is  also  an  absence  of  a  depraved  appetite  or  of  a  willful 
propensity  to  hurt  other  animals  or  to  damage  the  surroundings. 
The  cow  remains  quiet  and  the  general  muscular  contraction  gives 
her  a  rigid  appearance.  There  is  an  absence  of  paralysis  which 
marks  the  advanced  stage  of  rabies.  The  form  of  dumb  rabies  in 
dogs  is  characterized  by  the  paralysis  and  pendency  of  the  lower 
jaw,  while  in  tetanus  the  jaws  are  locked.  This  locking  of  the  jaws 
in  cattle  renders  the  animal  incapable  of  bellowing,  as  in  rabies. 
Finally,  tetanus  may  be  distinguished  from  rabies  by  the  fact  that 
the  central  nervous  system  does  not  contain  the  infectious  principle, 
while  in  rabies  the  inoculation  of  test  rabbits  with  the  brain  or  cord 
of  a  rabid  animal  will  produce  the  disease  with  characteristc  symp- 
toms after  an  interval  of  15  to  20  days.    This  period  of  incubation 


404  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

is  much  longer  than  in  tetanus,  since  the  inoculation  of  rabbits  with 
'  ^tetanus  cultures  invariably  results  in  death  after  a  short  period  and 
usually  within  three  days.  The  positive  evidence  that  a  rabid  dog 
has  been  near  cattle  would  greatly  assist  in  making  a  decision  in 
doubtful  cases. 

The  disease  in  dogs  is  pretty  well  recognized  by  most  people,  but  in 
case  a  suspected  dog  is  killed  it  is  desirable  to  open  the  animal  and 
examine  the  contents  of  the  stomach.  ^^Tiile  feed  is  absent,  a  variety 
of  odd  things  may  be  present  which  the  abnormally  changed  appetite 
of  the  rabid  dog  has  induced  it  to  swallow.  Among  such  things  may 
be  straws,  sticks,  glass,  rags,  earth,  pieces  of  leather,  and  whatever 
the  animal  may  have  encountered  small  enough  to  be  swallowed. 
This  miscellaneous  collection  in  the  stomach  of  dogs,  together  with 
absence  of  feed,  is  regarded  by  authorities  as  a  very  valuable  sign, 
and  in  case  of  doubt  may  be  made  use  of  by  laymen.  In  important 
cases,  however,  the  head  of  the  dog,  cow,  or  other  suspected  animal 
should  be  removed  and  sent  to  the  nearest  biological  laboratory, 
where  a  positive  diagnosis  can  be  made  within  36  hours  by  the  histo- 
logical examination  of  the  plexiform  nerve  ganglia,  and  within  two 
^  or  three  weeks  by  the  intracerebral  inoculation  of  rabbits  with  an 
emulsion  of  the  brain  of  the  suspected  animal.  / 

Treatment. — This  is  useless  aft^r  the  first  appearance  of  symptoms.'r'' 
When,  however,  a  wound  inflicted  by  a  rabid  animal  can  be  discov* 
ered,  it  should  be  immediately  cauterized  or  even  completely  extir- 
pated, care  being  taken  to  cut  entirely  around  the  wound  in  the 
healthy  tissues.  For  cauterizing  the  wound,  fuming  nitric  acid,  the 
hot  iron,  and  10  per  cent  solution  of  zinc  chlorid  are  the  most  effica- 
cious. To  afford  an  absolute  protection,  this  should  be  done  within 
a  few  moments  after  the  bite  has  been  inflicted,  although  even  as  late 
as  a  few  hours  it  has  been  known  to  thwart  the  development  of  the 
disease. 

Pasteur  originated  and  perfected  a  system  of  preventive  inocula- 
tion against  this  disease  which  has  greatly  reduced  the  mortality  in 
human  subjects.  Its  application  to  animals,  however,  is  more  diffi- 
cult, requiring  considerable  time  and  expense,  and  is  therefore  only 
economically  applicable  in  cases  in  which  very  valuable  animals  are 
bitten  by  dogs  known  to  be  mad.  Sanitary  regulations  which  seek  to 
control  effectively  the  disease  by  exterminating  it  among  dogs  are 
most  likely  to  prove  successful.  The  measures  which  are  adopted  to 
this  end  can  not  be  discussed  in  this  place,  but  it  is  a  striking  fact 
that  where  the  muzzling  of  all  dogs  has  been  rigidly  enforced,  as  in 
England  and  in  certain  German  districts,  the  disease  has  been  prac- 
'^..tically  stamped  out. 


DISEASES  OF   CATTLE.  405 

TUBERCULOSIS. 

[Pis.   XXXIV-XXXVIII.] 

Tuberculosis  is  an  infectious  and  communicable  disease  charac- 
terized by  the  formation,  in  various  organs  of  the  body,  of  minute 
nodules  or  tubercles,  which  contain  the  Baaillus  tuberculosis^  the 
cause  of  the  disease. 

The  disease,  in  its  various  manifestations,  has  been  known  for 
many  centuries,  and  legislative  enactments  having  reference  to  the 
destruction  of  affected  animals  and  forbidding  the  use  of  the  flesh 
date  far  back  into  the  Middle  Ages.  The  opinions  entertained  re- 
garding the  nature  and  the  cause  of  the  malady  varied  much  in  dif- 
ferent periods  and  very  markedly  influenced  the  laws  and  regula- 
tions in  vogue.  Thus,  in  the  sixteenth  century,  the  disease  was  con- 
sidered identical  with  syphilis  in  man.  In  consequence  of  this  belief 
very  stringent  laws  ,were  enacted,  which  made  the  destruction  of 
tuberculous  cattle  compulsory.  In  the  eighteenth  century  this 
erroneous  conception  of  the  nature  of  the  disease  was  abandoned 
and  all  restrictions  against  the  use  of  meat  were  removed.  Since 
that  time,  however,  its  communicable  nature  has  been  established  by 
many  investigators,  and  the  tide  of  opinion  has  again  turned  in 
favor  of  repressing  the  disease  and  prohibiting  the  sale  of  con- 
taminated products. 

Occun^ence. — The  statistics  concerning  tuberculosis  show  that  it  is 
a  disease  prevalent  in  all  civilized  countries.  In  some  countries,  such 
as  the  northern  part  of  Norway  and  Sweden,  on  the  steppes  of  east- 
ern Europe  and  Russia,  in  Sicily  and  Iceland,  and  in  Algiers,  it  is 
said  to  be  quite  rare. 

The  returns  from  testing  British  cattle  with  tuberculin,  supplied 
by  the  Eoyal  Veterinarj''  College,  as  stated  in  March,  1900,  showed 
that  among  15,392  animals  tested  4,105,  or  26  per  cent,  reacted. 

During  the  slaughter  of  cattle  for  pleuropneumonia  careful  exami- 
nations of  the  carcasses  were  made  for  tuberculosis.  Of  300  head 
killed  near  Edinburgh  120,  or  40  per  cent,  were  tuberculous.  Of 
4,160  killed  in  England  20  per  cent  were  tuberculous.  Of  one  of 
these  lots  of  cattle  (451  animals)  the  president  of  the  Lancashire 
Farmers'  Association  testified  that  they  were  fairly  representative 
cattle — cows,  heifers,  and  growing  stock — a  thoroughly  mixed  lot; 
20  per  cent  of  them  had  tuberculosis. 

Of  398  bovine  animals  taken  haphazard  in  the  city  of  Manchester, 
120,  or  30  per  cent,  were  tuberculous.  Among  them  were  168  cows, 
69,  or  41  per  cent,  being  tuberculous,  and  2  having  diseased  udders. 

The  result  of  testing  the  Queen's  herd  at  Windsor  was  that  36  out 
of  40,  or  90  per  cent,  were  found  tuberculous. 


406  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

The  investigations  made  by  the  British  Dairy  Farmers'  Association 
deserve  particular  attention,  coming  as  they  do  directly  from  a  cattle 
owners'  organization.  The  council  of  this  association  "  resolved  to 
submit  the  general  consideration  of  the  question  to  a  committee,  with 
a  view  to  some  more  definite  understanding  as  to  the  possible  extent 
to  which  tuberculosis  exists  in  dairy  cattle."  The  secretary  was 
instructed  to  write  to  a  number  of  dairy  farmers  being  members  of 
the  association,  asking  their  cooperation  and  the  use  of  their  herds 
for  the  application  of  the  tests.  Of  the  herds  offered,  9  were  selected, 
containing  461  cows  and  12  bulls,  and  188  of  these  animals  reacted, 
being  40.8  per  cent.  There  were  among  these  cattle  335  Shorthorns, 
of  which  119,  or  35  per  cent,  reacted;  67  crossbreds,  of  which  28,  or 
42  per  cent,  reacted ;  47  Ayrshires,  of  which  37,  or  80  per  cent,  reacted. 

Another  experiment  of  much  interest  is  that  of  the  Cheshire 
County  Council.  The  technical  instruction  committee  set  aside  £250 
to  be  used  by  a  joint  committee  from  the  agricultural  and  horticul- 
tural schools  and  Worleson  Dairy  Institute  for  applying  the  tuber- 
culin test  to  their  herds.  The  tests  were  made  February  15,  1899. 
The  results  were :  Worleson  herd  of  54  animals,  16  diseased,  or  29.6 
per  cent;  agricultural  school  herd  of  17  animals,  4  diseased,  or  23.5 
per  cent.  The  Worleson  herd  consisted  of  Shorthorn  cows.  In  each 
herd  the  purebred  Shorthorn  bull  was  tuberculous.  The  results  of 
the  tuberculin  test  were  confirmed  by  the  slaughter  of  the  animals 
and  examination  of  the  carcasses. 

Sir  T.  D.  G.  Carmichael,  member  of  Parliament  for  Midlothian, 
gave  evidence  before  the  royal  commission  that  his  Polled  Angus 
herd  was  tested  in  the  spring  of  1895.  "  The  results  of  the  test  were 
fearfully  unexpected  and  alarming."  Of  30  tested  13  showed  de- 
cided reaction — 43  per  cent.  Again,  he  speaks  of  having  41  animals 
tested  the  same  spring  and  16  reacted — 39.5  per  cent. 

Of  80  Shorthorn  cattle  intended  for  export  which  were  tested  34 
reacted,  or  42  per  cent. 

Of  a  herd  of  25  British  Shorthorns  recently  tested  in  quarantine 
40  per  cent  were  found  tuberculous. 

The  addition  of  these  animals  above  referred  to  gives  20,930  head 
examined  and  5,441,  or  26  per  cent,  pronounced  tuberculous.  And 
these  herds  were  not  selected  because  they  were  supposed  to  be  tuber- 
culous, but  represent  the  general  cattle  stock  of  the  country.  These 
animals  included  at  least  470  head  of  Shorthorns,  of  which  170,  or  34 
per  cent,  were  tuberculous. 

To  these  facts  may  be  added  the  evidence  of  Prof.  Bang  that 
in  the  first  half  of  the  nineteenth  century  tuberculosis  was  brought 
to  Denmark  by  cattle  from  Switzerland,.  Schleswig,  and  England, 
and  that  the  same  thing  is  now  going  on  in  Sweden  and  Norway, 
particularly  through  English  cattle.    Also  the  evidence  of  M.  Sivori, 


TUBERCULOSIS.  407 

chief  of  section  at  the  ministry  of  agriculture,  Argentina,  who  has 
investigated  tuberculosis  in  that  country  and  who  says  that  "  30  or 
40  years  ago  tuberculosis  was  unknown  in  Argentine  cattle,  and  it  is 
still  unknown  among  the  native  (crioUo)  cattle.  Its  appearance 
dates  from  the  introduction  of  pure  breeding  animals.  Statistics 
prove  that  tuberculosis  is  observed  among  the  grades — above  all 
among  those  of  the  Durham  and  less  among  the  Hereford." 

Moreover,  the  reports  of  the  royal  commission  of  Victoria,  Aus- 
tralia, and  of  the  New  Zealand  department  of  Agi-iculture  show  a 
large  proportion  of  tuberculous  cattle  in  those  colonies,  where  the 
disease  was  almost  certainly  carried  by  British  cattle. 

In  the  same  manner  that  tuberculosis  has  been  carried  from  Great 
Britain  to  Denmark,  Sweden,  Norway,  Argentina,  and  Australia,  it 
has  also  been  taken  to  Canada.  In  one  herd  of  imported  cattle 
slaughtered  in  the  Canadian  quarantine  station,  13  of  the  14  animals 
were  found  tuberculous.  One  of  the  largest  Shorthorn  herds  in 
Canada  was  sometime  ago  tested  because  an  animal  from  it  was 
condemned  when  offered  for  shipment  to  the  United  States.  This 
herd  was  found  to  be  very  badly  affected,  and  an  effort  is  being  made 
to  eradicate  the  disease  by  the  Bang  method.  A  Canadian  official 
publication  says  of  another  Shorthorn  herd,  which  at  one  time  had  a 
very  high  reputation,  that  when  an  investigation  in  regard  to  tuber- 
culosis was  recently  made  the  disease  was  found  among  ordinary 
cattle  wherever  animals  from  this  herd  had  been  introduced,  and  that 
this  herd,  which  had  been  looked  upon  as  one  of  the  greatest  benefits 
to  the  farming  community,  was  really  a  danger,  because  it  dissemi- 
nated tuberculosis  among  the  farmers'  herds.  Still  another  well- 
known  herd  recently  attracted  attention  because  four  animals  from 
it  offered  for  export  to  the  United  States  were  all  tuberculous. 

From  December  23,  1900,  to  February  19,  1901,  the  period  that  the 
department  inspector  tested  all  Canadian  cattle  intended  for  ship- 
ment to  the  United  States,  140  purebred  Shorthorns  and  3  Shorthorn 
grades  were  tested,  and  of  the  total  number  26,  or  18  per  cent 
reacted.  During  the  first  month  that  this  inspection  was  enforced, 
and  when  it  may  be  assumed  that  the  condition  of  the  cattle  most 
nearly  represented  what  it  had  previously  been,  74  cattle  were  offered 
for  importation,  and  18,  or  24.3  per  cent,  were  found  tuberculous. 

In  justice  to  Shorthorn  cattle  it  should  be  said  in  this  connection 
that  they  are  probably  no  more  susceptible  to  tuberculosis  than  are 
other  breeds,  but  the  disease  has  been  allowed  to  spread  in  certain 
herds  and  families  to  such  an  extent  as  to  give  a  wrong  impression 
concerning  the  breed  as  a  whole. 

The  slaughterhouse  statistics  of  Prussia  show  14.G  per  cent  of  the 
cattle  and  2.14  per  cent  of  the  hogs  to  be  tuberculous.  In  Saxony 
the  percentage  is  29.13  with  cattle  and  3.10  with  hogs.     In  the  city 


408 


DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 


of  Leipzig  the  figures  are  36.4  for  cattle  and  2.17  for  hogs.  (Siedam- 
grotzky.)  Of  20,850  animals  in  Belgium  tested  with  tuberculin  in 
1896,  48.88  per  cent  reacted.  (Stubbe.)  Of  25,439  tested  in  Den- 
mark from  1893  to  1895,  49.3  per  cent  reacted ;  and  of  67,263  tested 
from  1896  to  1898,  32.8  per  cent  reacted.     (Bang.) 

Figures  available  in  the  United  States  do  not  cover  a  sufficient  area 
of  our  territory  to  allow  us  to  make  a  reliable  estimate  of  the  extent 
of  tuberculosis  with  milch  cows.  There  is  little  doubt,  however,  but 
that  the  disease  has  been  increasing  both  with  dairy  cattle  and  hogs. 
From  a  review  by  Russell  and  Hastings,  of  the  Wisconsin  Agricul- 
tural Experiment  Station,  of  tests  of  cattle  for  tuberculosis  which 
have  been  made  in  the  United  States,  the  following  summary  is 
presented : 

Statistics  of  tests  for  tuberculosis  in  the  United  States. 


State. 


Number 
tested. 


Number 
tubercu- 
lous. 


Per  cent 
tubercu- 
lous. 


Vermont 

Massachusetts 

Massachusetts,  entire  herds. 

Connecticut 

New  York,  1894 

New  York,  1897-98 

Pennsylvania 

New  Jersey. 

Illinois,  1897-98 

lUinois,  1899 

Michigan 

Minnesota 

Iowa 


CO, 000 
24,685 

4,093 

6,300 
947 

1,200 
34,000 

2,500 
929 

3,655 


2,390 

12,443 

1,080 


66 

163 

4,800 


Wisconsin; 

Experiment  Station  tests — 

Susjjected  herds • 

Nonsuspected  herds 

State  veterinarian's  tests — 

Suspected  herds 

Tests  of  local  veterinarians  under  State  veterinarian,  cattle  in- 
tended for  shipment  to  States  requiring  tuberculin  certificate.. 


3,430 
873 


323 
935 


588 
3,421 


115 
84 


191 
76 


3.9 
50.0 
26.4 
14.2 

6.9 
18.4 
14.1 
21.4 
12.0 
15.32 
13.0 
11.1 
13.8 


35.6 
9.0 


32.5 
2.2 


Reports  of  tuberculin  tests  made  on  400.000  cattle  in  the  United 
States  during  the  years  1893  to  1908  by  Federal,  State,  and  other 
officers  with  tuberculin  prepared  by  the  Bureau  of  Animal  Industry 
show  37,008  reactions,  or  9.25  per  cent.  These  were  mostly  dairy 
cattle,  and  in  some  cases  herds  were  suspected  of  being  diseased. 

All  cattle  in  the  District  of  Columbia,  numbering  1,701,  were  tested 
with  tuberculin  in  1909-10,  and  18.87  per  cent  reacted.  In  1909-11 
herds  in  Maryland  and  Virginia  supplying  milk  to  the  District  of 
Columbia  were  tested,  with  19.03  and  15.38  per  cent  of  reactions, 
respectively,  among  4,501  cattle. 


TUBEECULOSIS.  409 

The  beef  cattle  of  the  United  States  show  a  much  smaller  propor- 
tion of  the  disease  than  dairy  cattle,  though  the  percentage  of  cattle 
found  tuberculous  in  the  Government  meat-inspection  service  has 
increased  considerably  in  recent  years.  This  increase  is  due  partly, 
but  not  wholly,  to  more  stringent  inspection.  Of  7,781,030  adult 
cattle  slaughtered  under  Federal  inspection  during  the  fiscal  year 
ended  June  30,  1911,  76,448  were  found  tuberculous,  a  percentage 
of  0.98. 

It  has  been  observed  that  tuberculosis  increases  in  frequency  with 
the  age  of  the  animals.  If  we  take  as  the  unit  of  comparison  the 
number  of  cases  of  animals  of  a  year  and  under  affected  with  tuber- 
culosis, animals  from  1  to  3  years  old  furnish  10  times,  those  3  to  6 
years  old  30  times,  and  those  more  than  6  years  40  times  the  number 
of  cases. 

From  the  statistics  above  referred  to,  and  other  data,  it  appears 
that  in  the  more  densely  populated  areas  of  Europe  and  America 
from  5  to  50  per  cent  of  the  dairy  cattle  are  more  or  less  affected  with 
tuberculosis,  while  the  proportion  of  beef  cattle  affected  is  distinctly 
less,  ranging  from  0.14  to  30  per  cent.  This  difference  is  due  to  a 
number  of  causes.  Beef  cattle  average  younger  when  slaughtered. 
They  are  not  so  frequently  stabled,  and  are  for  that  reason  less  liable 
to  infection,  and  as  the  males  constitute  a  large  proportion  of  this 
class  of  animals  the  effect  of  milk  secretion  in  lowering  the  vital 
forces  is  not  so  apparent.  In  the  United  States  it  has  been  estimated 
that  about  10  per  cent  of  the  dairy  cattle  are  tuberculous,  while  only 
about  2  per  cent  of  the  beef  cattle  are  so  infected. 

Cause  and  nature  of  the  disease. — The  cause  of  tuberculosis  is  the 
tubercle  bacillus,  which  gains  entrance  to  the  body,  lodges  somewhere 
in  the  tissues,  and  begins  to  grow  and  multiply  at  that  point.  As  this 
bacillus  vegetates  and  increases  in  numbers  it  excretes  substances 
Avhich  act  as  irritants  and  poisons  and  which  lead  to  the  formation  of 
a  small  nodule,  called  a  tubercle,  at  the  point  of  irritation.  As  the 
bacilli  are  disseminated  through  the  animal  body  they  affect  many 
points  and  cause  the  formation  of  an  enormous  number  of  tubercles. 
By  the  union  of  such  tubercles  masses  of  tubercular  material  are 
formed,  which  in  some  cases  are  of  great  size.  The  disease  is  called 
tuberculosis,  because  it  is  characterized  by  the  formation  of  these 
peculiar  nodules,  and  the  bacillus  which  causes  the  disease  is  for  the 
same  reason  Iniown  technically  as  the  Bacillus  tuherculosis. 

There  are  undoubtedly  predisposing  conditions  which  contribute 
toward  the  development  of  the  disease ;  some  of  these  are  found  in 
the  animal  body  and  others  in  the  environment.  An  enfeebled  condi- 
tion caused  by  insufficient  feed,  exposure  to  great  extremes  of  atmos- 
pheric temperature  and  insanitary  surroundings,  or  the  drain  occa- 
sioned by  heavy  production  of  milk,  appear  to  aid  the  development 


410  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

of  the  bacillus,  and  there  is  also  a  special  individual  susceptibility 
in  some  cases  which  may  be  otherwise  described  as  an  inability  of  the 
animal  tissues  to  resist  and  destroy  the  bacilli  when  they  have  pene- 
trated to  the  inner  recesses  of  the  body. 

Among  the  conditions  of  environment  which  aid  the  development 
of  tuberculosis  may  be  mentioned  stabling  with  lack  of  ventilation, 
damp  buildings,  the  keeping  of  many  animals  together,  drafts  of  air 
which  cause  colds  and  catarrhs,  and,  in  general,  everything  which 
prevents  the  animals  from  developing  and  maintaining  the  highest 
condition  of  health.  None  of  these  conditions  of  body  or  environ- 
ment are  sufficient  to  cause  the  disease,  however,  unless  the  animals 
are  exposed  to  the  Bacillus  tuherculosis  and  it  penetrates  the  tissues 
of  their  bodies. 

The  ways  in  which  the  tubercle  bacilli  find  their  way  into  the  body 
may  be  considered  under  four  heads:  (1)  By  inhalation  into  the 
lungs;  (2)  by  taking  into  the  digestive  tract  in  the  milk  of  tuber- 
culous cows  or  with  other  contaminated  feed;  (3)  during  coition 
when  the  sexual  organs  are  tuberculous;  (4)  from  the  tuberculous 
mother  to  the  fetus  in  the  uterus.  The  bacilli  can  reach  the  lungs 
by  inhalation  only  when  the  bacilli  are  thoroughly  dried  and  pulver- 
ized and  in  condition  to  be  carried  by  currents  of  air. 

It  is  well  known  that  the  bacilli  withstand  drying  for  months 
before  they  lose  their  power  of  producing  disease.  They  leave  the 
body  of  diseased  animals  in  several  ways.  There  may  be  a  little  dis- 
charge occasionally  coughed  up  as  a  spray  from  the  diseased  lungs, 
or  this  material  may  be  swallowed  and  the  bacilli  carried  off  with 
the  excrement,  or  milk  may  be  spilt,  or  there  may  be  a  discharge 
from  the  vagina  when  the  genital  organs  are  tuberculous.  There 
may  also  be  ulcers  of  the  intestines,  from  which  many  bacilli  escape 
with  the  feces.  The  bacilli  from  these  sources  may  become  dried 
and  pulverized  and  carried  in  the  air  of  the  stable  and  into  the  lungs 
of  still  healthy  cattle,  where  the  disease  then  develops. 

The  disease  of  the  stomach,  intestines,  and  mesenteric  glands  is 
very  probably  the  result  of  feed  infection.  Tubercle  bacilli  may 
have  been  scattered  upon  the  feed  by  diseased  animals,  but  the  most 
common  source  of  such  infection  is  the  milk  of  tuberculous  cows. 
Calves  may  become  infected  in  this  way.  The  disease  may  remain 
latent  until  the  animal  becomes  older.  The  not  infrequent  occur- 
rence of  tuberculosis  of  the  uterus  and  ovaries  makes  it  probable 
that  the  disease  may  be  transmitted  by  a  diseased  bull  or  carried  by 
a  healthy  one  from  a  diseased  cow  to  a  number  of  healthy  cows. 

The  source  of  infection  is  always  some  previous  case  of  the  disease, 
for  the  latter  can  never  rise  spontaneously;  hence,  in  those  stables 
in  which  there  is  frequent  change  of  cattle  the  introduction  of  tuber- 
culosis by  cattle  coming  from  other  infected  stables  is  the  most  fre- 


TUBEECULOSIS.  411 

qiient  source  of  infection.  Since  the  bacilli  when  dried  can  be  car- 
ried by  the  air,  it  is  not  necessary  that  healthy  animals  come  in 
direct  contact  with  cases  of  disease  to  become  infected.  In  general 
the  greatest  number  of  cases  occur  in  the  immediate  environment  of 
cities,  where  there  are  not  only  abundant  opportunities  for  infection,, 
owing  to  the  frequent  introduction  of  new  animals  into  herds,  but 
where  the  sanitary  conditions  may  be  regarded  as  the  poorest. 

The  bacillus  of  tuberculosis  was  discovered  by  Robert  Koch  in 
1882.  It  is  a  slender,  rod-like  body  (see  PL  XXVIII,  fig.  6)  from 
one-third  to  two-thirds  the  diameter  of  a  red  blood  corpuscle  in 
length.  As  already  explained,  when  the  bacillus  has  become  lodged 
in  any  organ  or  tissue  it  begins  to  multiply,  and  thereby  causes  an 
irritation  in  the  tissue  around  it,  which  leads  to  the  formation  of 
the  so-called  tubercle.  The  tubercle,  when  it  has  reached  its  full 
growth,  is  a  little  nodule  about  the  size  of  a  millet  seed.  It  is  com- 
posed of  several  kinds  of  tissue  cells.  Soon  a  change  takes  place 
within  the  tubercle.  Disintegration  begins,  and  a  soft,  cheesy  sub- 
stance is  formed  in  the  center,  which  may  contain  particles  of  lime 
salts.  When  these  tubercles  continue  to  form  in  large  numbers  they 
run  together,  forming  masses  of  various  sizes.  The  disintegration 
which  attacks  them  leads  to  the  formation  of  large  cheesy  masses 
of  a  yellowish  color,  containing  more  or  less  of  lime  salts  in  the 
form  of  gritty  particles.  These  large  tuberculous  masses  are  sur- 
rounded by  or  embedded  in  laj'^ers  of  fibrous  tissue,  which  in  some 
cases  becomes  very  dense  and  thick. 

The  disease  is  thus  a  development  of  these  tubercles  in  one  or 
more  organs  of  the  body.  The  distribution  and  number  of  the 
tubercles  determine  the  course  of  the  disease. 

In  a  large  number  of  cases  the  changes  are  limited  to  the  lungs  and 
the  serous  membranes  ^  of  the  thorax  and  abdomen.  Pathologists 
have  been  in  the  habit  of  calling  the  lung  disease  tuberculosis  and 
the  disease  of  the  serous  membranes  "pearly  disease."  Statistics 
have  shown  that  in  about  one-half  of  the  cases  both  lungs  and  serous 
membranes  are  diseased,  in  one-third  only  the  lungs,  and  in  one-fifth 
only  the  serous  membranes.  At  the  same  time  the  lymphatic  glands 
near  the  diseased  organs  are  usually  involved.  Other  organs,  such  as 
the  liver,  not  infrequently  contain  tubercles.  Though  the  disease 
may  remain  restricted  to  a  single  organ,  it  now  and  then  is  found 
generalized,  affecting  all  organs  of  the  body. 

In  the  lungs  (PL  XXXIV)  the  changes  observed  vary  according 
to  the  age  and  intensity  of  the  disease  process.    They  usually  begin 

1  These  membranes  comprise  the  smooth,  very  delicate,  glistening  lining  of  the  large 
body  cavities.  In  the  thorax  the  serous  membrane  (pleura)  covers  tlie  ribs  and  dia- 
phragm as  well  as  the  whole  lung  surface.  In  the  abdomen  a  similar  membrane  (perito- 
neum) lines  the  interior  of  the  cavity  and  covers  the  bowels,  liver,  spleen,  etc. 


412  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

with  the  appearance  of  very  minute  tubercles.  These  may  appear  in 
large  numbers  on  the  surface  of  the  lungs  or  within  the  lung  tissue. 
Later  the  contents  become  cheesy  and  partly  calcified.  When  these 
tubercles  are  sufficiently  numerous  to  become  confluent,  large  masses 
may  be  formed,  which  undergo  the  same  retrogressive  changes  of 
caseation  and  calcification.  In  addition  to  the  formation  of  tubercles 
in  the  lung  tissue,  certain  other  changes  take  place.  There  is  usually 
bronchitis  with  abundant  catarrhal  secretion;  this  plugs  up  the 
smaller  air  tubes,  and  the  lung  tissue  supplied  with  air  by  the  tubes 
collapses.  Subsequently  it  becomes  filled  with  yellowish,  cheesy 
matter,  which  greatly  distends  the  small  air  tubes  and  air  vesicles 
(bronchopneumonia).  The  connective  tissue  between  the  lung 
lobules,  around  the  tubercles,  and  around  the  air  tubes,  becomes 
thickened  and  indurated.  In  the  larynx  and  the  bronchi  tubercles 
may  vegetate  upon  the  mucous  membrane,  and  ulcers  may  result 
from  their  breaking  down.  The  inflammatory  irritation  which  the 
growth  of  the  tubercles  on  the  surface  of  the  lungs  arouses  gives  rise 
to  adhesion  of  the  lungs  to  the  ribs  and  diaphragm.  This  adhesion 
is  sometimes  so  firm  and  extensive  that  the  lungs  appear  grown  to 
the  chest  wall. 

When,  therefore,  the  lungs  in  advanced  stages  of  the  disease  are 
cut  open  we  observe  large  yellowish  masses,  from  one-quarter  to 
three-quarters  of  an  inch  in  diameter,  of  a  cheesy  texture,  in  which 
calcified,  gritty  particles  are  embedded  and  which  are  surrounded  by 
very  firm  connective  tissue.  The  neighboring  lung  tissue,  when  col- 
lapsed and  involved  in  bronchopneumonia,  has  the  color  and  con- 
sistency of  pale-red  flesh.  The  air  tubes,  large  and  small,  stand  out 
prominently  on  the  cut  surface.  They  are  distended  with  a  pasty, 
yellowish,  cheesy  mass,  surrounded  and  enveloped  in  thick  mucus, 
and  their  walls  greatly  thickened.  The  larger  bronchi  may  be  sac- 
culated, owing  to  the  distention  produced  by  the  cheesy  contents. 

The  disease  usually  attacks  the  bronchial  glands,  which  are  situated 
on  the  trachea  and  bronchial  tubes  at  the  bifurcation.  The  changes 
in  the  glands  are  the  same  as  those  going  on  in  the  lung  tissue,  and 
they  frequently  reach  an  enormous  size. 

The  tubercle  formation  on  the  serous  membranes  covering  the  lungs 
and  chest  wall  (PI.  XXXVII,  fig.  2),  which  may  go  on  at  the  same 
time  with  the  lung  disease  or  independent  of  it,  has  been  called 
"  pearly  disease,"  on  account  of  the  peculiar  appearance  of  the  tu- 
bercles. These  begin  as  very  minute,  grayish  nodules,  which  give 
the  originally  smooth,  lustrous  membrane  a  roughened  appearance. 
These  minute  tubercles  enlarge,  become  confluent,  and  project  above 
the  surface  of  the  membrane  as  wartlike  masses,  attaining  the  size 
of  peas.  In  this  stage  their  attachment  to  the  membrane  is  by  means 
of  delicate  fibers.     The  attachment  is  loose,  so  that  the  tubercle  hangs 


TUBERCULOSIS.  413 

by  a  short  pedicle  or  neck  and  may  be  moved  slightly  to  and  fro. 
Large  masses  are  frequently  formed  by  a  coalescence  of  many  tuber- 
cles and  the  secondary  formation  of  the  same.  These  may  be  found 
on  the  lungs,  the  ribs,  and  the  diaphragm.  These  tubercles  likewise 
undergo  degenerative  changes.  The  center  partly  softens  and  partly 
calcifies  into  a  grayish  mortarlike  mass,  and  is  gritty.  Associated 
with  the  formation  of  tubercles  on  the  pleura,  those  glands  situated 
back  of  the  center  of  the  lungs  between  the  two  main  lobes  (posterior 
mediastinal)  become  greatly  enlarged  and  the  center  cheesy.  (PI. 
XXXVI,  fig.  1.)  They  may  compress  the  esophagus  and  interfere 
with  swallowing.  The  size  attained  by  these  tumors  and  new 
growths  is  well  illustrated  by  the  fact  that,  taken  together,  they  not 
infrequently  weigh  from  60  to  80  pounds.  The  bronchial  glands, 
which  in  the  healthy  state  are  not  so  large  as  horse-chestnuts,  have 
been  found  to  attain  a  weight  of  more  than  10  pounds. 

In  the  abdominal  cavity  tubercles  may  be  found,  both  in  the 
organs  and  on  the  serous  membranes  covering  them.  They  are 
situated  preferably  on  the  omentum,  or  caul  (see  PI.  XXXVI,  fig.  2), 
the  diaphragm,  and  the  walls  of  the  abdomen.  In  the  liver  large 
and  small  tubercular  masses  are  occasionally  encountered.  (See 
PL  XXXV.)  The  mesenteric  glands  are  occasionally  enlarged  and 
tuberculous;  likewise  the  glands  near  the  liver.  Tubercles  may  also 
develop  in  the  spleen,  the  kidneys,  the  uterus  and  ovaries,  and  the 
testicles. 

Tubercular  affection  of  the  intestines  seems  to  be  quite  rare, 
although  ulcers  of  the  large  intestines  have  been  observed.  Nodules 
may  also  form  under  the  serous  covering  of  the  intestines. 

The  brain  and  spinal  cord  are  occasionally  found  tuberculous.  Of 
40  cases,  Semmer  found  tuberculosis  of  the  brain  in  4.  It  is  not 
improbable  that,  owing  to  the  infrequency  of  exposing  the  brain  and 
spinal  cord,  tuberculosis  may  have  escaped  the  attention  of  patholo- 
gists, and  it  may  be  that  it  is  not  so  uncommon  as  is  generally,  sup- 
posed. The  tubercles  occur  on  the  membranes  of  the  brain  as  well  as 
in  the  substance  of  the  brain  itself.  They  project  into  the  ventricles 
as  masses,  varying  in  size  from  a  pinhead  to  a  hen's  egg.  They 
finally  lead  to  various  inflammatory  changes.  Johne  has  observed 
numerous  small  tubercles  on  the  membranes  of  the  spinal  cord. 

Very  rarely  tuberculous  lesions  have  been  observed  in  the  bones 
and  muscles  of  the  hodj.  Not  so  rare,  however,  is  the  affection  of  the 
lymphatic  glands  embedded  in  the  muscular  tissue,  and  those  which 
can  be  felt  beneath  the  skin.  These  are  situated  at  the  joints,  under 
the  jaw,  and  along  the  neck. 

Of  late  tubercular  disease  of  the  udder  in  cows  (PI.  XXXVIII) 
has  received  considerable  attention  from  sanitarians,  owing  to  the 
infection  of  the  milk  with  the  virus  of  tuberculosis.     Accordino;  to 


414  •  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

those  who  have  given  this  subject  special  attention,  the  udder  be- 
comes swollen  uniformly  and  quite  firm.  This  swelling,  which  is 
painless,  frequently  attacks  but  one  quarter,  more  rarely  two,  these 
being  usually  the  hind  quarters.  The  larger  milk  ducts  contain  yel- 
lowish, cheesy  particles,  in  which  are  many  tubercle  bacilli.  Later 
larger  nodules  can  be  felt  within  the  udder,  which  undergo  the 
various  changes  to  which  tubercles  are  subject.  The  udder  may  grow 
very  hard  to  the  touch  and  become  very  large,  weighing  in  some  cases 
up  to  40  pounds.  The  milk,  at  first  normal,  becomes  thin  and  watery 
after  a  month  or  so,  and  is  mixed  with  flakes  and  tubercle  bacilli. 

As  regards  the  frequency  of  the  tuberculous  processes  in  the  dif- 
ferent organs,  the  following  carefully  compiled  statistics  of  the 
disease  in  Bavaria  and  Baden  may  serve  as  a  guide : 

Bavaria :  Per  cent. 

Tuberculosis  of  lungs  and  serous  membranes 41 

Tuberculosis  of  lungs  alone 33 

Tuberculosis  of  serous  membranes  alone  (pearly  disease) 17 

Tuberculosis  of  other  organs 8 

Baden : 

Tuberculosis  of  lungs  alone 21 

Tuberculosis  of  serous  membranes  alone _ 28 

Both  combined 39 

Generalized  tuberculosis 9 

Tuberculosis  of  the  sexual  organs  alone 3 

Symptoms. — The  beginning  of  the  disease  usually  passes  unnoticed, 
inasmuch  as  it  is  very  slow  and  insidious  and  rarely  accompanied  with 
fever.  When  the  lungs  are  involved  a  dull,  short  cough  is  noticed, 
which  may  later  on  become  prolonged,  convulsive,  and  very  trouble- 
some to  the  animal.  The  cough  is  more  frequent  in  the  morning 
after  movement  and  drinking.  The  breathing  varies.  Only  when 
much  of  the  lung  tissue  is  diseased  is  it  labored  and  accompanied 
with  active  movements  of  the  chest  and  nostrils.  Discharge  from  the 
nose  is  rare  or  absent.  At  times,  however,  when  the  tubercles  have 
broken  down  and  cavities  containing  cheesy  masses  have  formed  in 
the  lung  tissue,  or  when  the  air  tubes  have  become  filled  with  cheesy 
and  mucous  masses,  coughing  will  dislodge  them  and  cause  their  dis- 
charge. In  advanced  stages  the  breath  may  have  a  disagreeable  odor. 
Pressure  on  the  chest  wall  may  give  rise  to  pain. 

The  general  effect  on  the  body  is  at  first  slight.  In  fact,  animals 
may  remain  in  good  flesh  for  a  considerable  time.  Invariably  as  the 
disease  progresses  loss  of  flesh  and  appetite  and  paleness  of  the 
mucous  membranes  become  manifest.  These  sj^mptoms  are  accom- 
panied with  a  gradual  diminution  of  the  milk  secretion.  The  de- 
bilitated condition  of  the  animal  is  also  manifested  by  a  staring  coat 
and  a  tough,  dry,  harsh  skin  (hidebound).  Digestive  disturbances 
are  indicated  by  tympanites,  or  distention  of  the  rumen  by  gas,  colic, 


TUBERCULOSIS.  415 

and  diarrhea,  alternating  with  constipation.  The  animal  generally 
dies  from  exhaustion  after  a  period  of  sickness  which  may  last 
months  or  even  years. 

Tuberculosis  in  the  abdominal  organs  is  often  signalized  by  abor- 
tion and  by  abnormal  sexual  manifestations.  When  the  brain  is  in- 
volved, the  disease  may  cause  convulsions,  unconsciousness,  i^aralysis, 
as  well  as  peculiar  movements  in  a  circle,  oblique  position  of  the  head, 
etc.  Lydtin  quotes  the  following  description  of  the  disease  as  taken 
from  a  Swiss  sanitary  order : 

A  dry,  short,  interrupted,  hoarse  cough,  which  tlie  sicli  animals  manifest, 
especially  in  the  morning  at  feeding  time,  still  more  after  somewhat  violent 
exertion.  At  first  these  animals  may  be  full  blooded  and  lay  on  a  considerable 
amount  of  fat  when  well  fed.  As  the  disease  progresses  they  grow  thin  and 
show  more  and  more  those  appearances  which  indicate  diseased  nutrition,  such 
as  a  staring,  lusterless,  disheveled  coat ;  dirty,  tense  skin,  which  appears  very 
pale  in  those  regions  free  from  hair.  The  temperature  of  the  skin  is  below 
normal.  The  loss  of  fat  causes  sinking  of  the  eyes  in  their  sockets.  They 
appear  swimming  in  water,  and  their  expression  is  weak.  The  cough  is  more 
frequent,  but  never  or  very  rarely  accompanied  with  discharge.  The  body  con- 
tinues to  emaciate,  even  with  plenty  of  food  and  a  good  appetite,  so  that  the 
quantity  of  milk  is  small.  At  times  in  the  early  stages  of  the  disease,  still 
more  in  the  later  stages,  the  diseased  animals  manifest  considerable  tenderness 
when  pressure  is  applied  to  the  front  or  the  sides  of  the  chest  by  coughing, 
moaning,  etc.  Often  symptoms  are  wanting  in  spite  of  the  existence  of  the 
disease. 

Lydtin  also  quotes  at  length  a  description  of  the  abnormal  sexual 
desire  occasionally  observed  among  cows  when  affected  with  this 
disease. 

Diagnosis. — A  disease  so  varied  in  its  attack  upon  the  different 
organs  of  the  body  and  in  the  extent  of  the  disease  process  must  nec- 
essarily lead  to  mistakes  when  diagnosis  is  attempted  by  ordinary 
means  of  examination.  It  has  been  confounded  with  the  later  stages 
of  pleuropneumonia,  with  parasitic  diseases  of  the  brain,  the  lungs, 
the  intestines,  and  with  actinomycosis.  A  careful  examination  of  the 
lungs  by  ausculation  and  percussion  enables  the  expert  to  locate  large 
tuberculous  masses,  owing  to  dullness,  loss  of  respiratory  murmur,  and 
abnormal  sounds,  such  as  blowing,  whistling,  and  creaking.  The 
majority  of  cases  of  tuberculosis  in  cattle,  however,  including  many 
in  which  the  lungs  are  quite  seriously  involved,  can  not  be  detected 
in  this  manner. 

THE  TUBERCULIN  TEST. 

The  tuberculin  test,  which  is  marvelously  accurate  in  its  indica- 
tions, has  been  almost  universally  adopted  for  the  detection  of  tuber- 
culosis. Tuberculin  is  a  drug  prepared  by  sterilizing,  filtering,  and 
concentrating  the  liquids  in  which  the  tubercle  bacillus  has  been 
allowed  to  vegetate.    It  contains  the  cooked  products  of  the  growth 


TUBERCULOSIS. 

DESCRIPTION    OF   PLATES. 

Plate  XXXIV.  Tuberculosis  of  the  lungs  of  cattle.  The  upper  figure  represents 
a  large  cheesy  mass,  surrouudetl  by  a  capsule  of  connective  tissue,  the 
whole  embedded  in  healthy  lung  tissue.  The  lower  figure  illustrates  in 
section  a  mass  of  tubercles  which  have  undergone  cheesy  degeneration, 
and  some  of  which  are  surrounded  by  dense  connective  tissue. 

Plats  XXXV.  Tuberculosis  of  the  liver.  A  large  portion  of  the  lobe  repre- 
sented in  the  plate  has  undergone  tuberculous  changes.  Numerous 
nodules  are  shown  in  various  stages  of  the  disease,  the  majority  of 
which,  however,  contain  the  yellowish,  partly  cheesy,  partly  gritty 
areas  characteristic  of  advanced  tuberculous  degeneration.  This  large 
mass  involves  the  surface  of  the  liver,  and  also  extends  into  the  liver 
substance. 

Plate  XXXVI.  Tuberculosis  of  lymph  gland  and  of  omentum  (caul). 

Fig.  1.  A  lymph  gland  from  the  region  of  the  thorax  behind  or  above  the 
esophagus,  or  gullet  (posterior,  or  dorsal,  mediastinum).  The  gland  is 
shown  cut  through  and  laid  open.  It  is  very  much  enlargetl,  and  the 
yellowish  cheesy  masses  which  represent  tissue  undergoing  tuberculous 
changes  are  well  shown  on  the  cut  surface. 
Fig.  2.  Omentum,  or  caul,  resting  upon  the  paunch.  The  reddish 'nodules 
with  which  the  membrane  is  beset  are  tubercles,  the  product  of  the 
disease. 

Plate  XXXVII.  Fig.  1.  Tuberculosis  of  the  sirloin  and  porterhouse  cuts  of 
beef.  The  grapelike  tuberculous  growths  are  mainly  restricted  to  the 
lining  membrane  of  the  abdomen. 
Fig.  2.  Tuberculosis  of  the  pleura  of  a  cow,  so-called  "  pearly  disease." 
Notice  the  grapelike  clusters  of  tubercular  nodules  scattered  over  the 
lining  membrane  of  the  chest  (pleura). 

Plate  XXXVIII.  Tuberculosis  of  cow's  udder.  The  udder  was  uniformly 
swollen  and  quite  firm.  Small  cheesy  foci  and  yellowish  lines  of 
tuberculous  material  follow  the  course  of  the  milk  ducts.  The  mucous 
membrane  of  the  milk  cistern  (a)  is  ulcerated  and  covered  witli 
yellowish  cheesy  particles.  The  supramammary  lymphatic  gland  (b) 
is  greatly  enlarged  and  contains  many  miliary  tubercular  foci. 
416 


Diteases  of  Cattle — U    S.  Dept.  of  Agr. 


Plate  XXXiv. 


J  &C0   BAITIMORE. 


Tuberculosis  of  the  Lungs  of  Cattle. 


Diseases  of  Cattle — U.  S.  Dept    of  Agr 


Plate  XXXV. 


OEN  &CO    BAITJMORE. 


Tuberculosis  of  the  Liver. 


Diieaaes  of  Cattle — U.  S.  Dept.  of  Agr 


Plate  xxxvi. 


'i^ffii 


rig.  1 


Fig.  2 


A.HOEN  aCO.  BALTIMORE. 


Tuberculosis  of  Lymph  Gland  and  of  Omentum  (Caul). 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  xXXVII. 


Fig.  1.— Tuberculosis  of  Sirloin  and  Porterhouse  Cuts  of 
Beef. 


Fig.  2.— Tuberculosis  of  Pleura  of  a  Cow,  So-called 
Disease." 


' Pearly 


Di$e«ses  of  Cattle— U.  S.  Dept    of  Agr 


Plate  XXXVII 


i  aCO   BALTIMORE, 


Tuberculosis  of  Cows  Udder. 


TUBERCULOSIS.  417 

of  these  bacilli,  but  not  the  bacilli  themselves,  consequently,  when 
this  substance  is  injected  under  the  skin  of  an  animal  it  is  absolutely 
unable  to  produce  the  disease,  cause  abortion,  or  otherwise  injure  the 
animal.  In  case  the  injected  animal  is  normal  there  is  no  more  effect 
upon  the  system  than  would  be  expected  from  the  injection  of  sterile 
water;  however,  if  the  animal  is  tuberculous,  a  decided  rise  of  tem- 
perature w411  follow  the  use  of  tuberculin.  This  substance,  discov- 
ered by  Koch,  has  the  effect,  when  injected  into  the  tissues  of  a 
tuberculous  animal,  of  causing  a  decided  rise  of  temperature,  while  it 
has  no  such  effect  upon  animals  free  from  the  disease.  The  value  of 
tuberculin  for  this  purpose  was  tested  during  the  years  1890  and  1891 
by  Guttman,  Eoeckl  and  Schiitz,  Bang  and  Salomonsen,  Lydtin, 
Johne  and  Siedamgrotzky,  Nocard,  and  many  others.  It  was  at  once 
recognized  as  a  most  remarkable  and  accurate  method  of  detecting 
tuberculosis  even  in  the  early  stages  and  when  the  disease  had  yet 
made  but  little  progress. 

The  tuberculin  test  came  into  existence  through  the  most  careful 
and  thorough  scientific  experimentation.  In  practice  it  is  applied  by 
first  taking  the  temperature  of  the  animal  to  be  tested,  at  intervals 
of  about  two  hours,  a  sufficient  number  of  times  to  establish  the  nor- 
mal temperature  of  the  body  under  the  ordinary  conditions  of  life. 
The  proper  dose  of  tuberculin  is  then  injected  under  the  skin  with  a 
hypodermic  syringe  between  8  and  10  p.  m.  on  the  day  of  taking  the 
preliminary  temperatures.  On  the  following  day  the  temperatures 
are  taken  every  two  hours,  beginning  at  6  a.  m.  and  continuing  until 
20  hours  following  the  injection,  if  the  fullest  information  is  desired.^ 
From  average  temperatures,  calculated  by  De  Schweinitz  in  1896, 
of  about  1,600  tests  of  tuberculous  cows,  it  appears  that  in  general 
the  rise  of  temperature  begins  from  five  and  one-half  to  six  hours 
after  the  tuberculin  is  injected,  reaches  its  greatest  height  from  the 
sixteenth  to  the  twentieth  hours,  and  then  gradually  declines,  reach- 
ing the  normal  again  by  the  twenty-eighth  hour. 

As  a  result  of  this  method  an  accurate  diagnosis  may  be  estab- 
lished in  more  than  97  per  cent  of  the  cases  tested.  The  relatively 
few  failures  in  diagnoses  are  included  among  two  classes  of  cattle. 
The  first  class  contains  those  that  are  tuberculous,  but  which  do 
not  react  either  because  of  the  slight  effect  of  an  ordinary-sized 
dose  of  tuberculin  on  an  advanced  case  of  the  disease  w^th  so  much 
natural  tuberculin  already  in  the  system,  or  on  account  of  a  recent 
previous  test  with  tuberculin  which  produces  a  tolerance  to  this 
material,  lasting  for  about  six   weeks.     The  second   class  includes 

iThe  ophthalmic-tuberculin  test  and  the  intradermal-tuberculin  test,  as  their  names 
imply,  consist  in  the  application  of  the  tuberculin  to  the  eye  and  to  the  deep  layer  of  the 
skin  of  the  animal  to  be  tested.  These  methods  will  not  be  discussed  at  present,  as  they 
are  still  in  the  experimental  stage. 

33071°— IG 27 


418  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

those  that  are  not  tuberculous,  but  which  show  an  elevation  of  tem- 
perature as  a  result  of  (a)  advanced  pregnancy,  (h)  the  excite- 
ment of  oestrum,  (c)  concurrent  diseases,  as  inflammation  of  the 
lungs,  intestines,  uterus,  udder,  or  other  parts,  abortion,  retention 
of  afterbirth,  indigestion,  etc.,  (d)  inclosure  in  a  hot,  stuffy  stable, 
especially  in  summer,  or  exposure  to  cold  drafts  or  rains,  (e)  any 
change  in  the  method  of  feeding,  watering,  or  stabling  of  the  animal 
during  the  test.  Notwithstanding  all  these  possibilities  of  error, 
the  results  of  thousands  of  tests  show  that  in  less  than  3  per  cent 
of  the  cases  tested  do  these  failures  actually  occur.  In  the  first  class 
the  chances  of  error  are  decidedly  reduced  by  the  skilled  veterinarian 
by  making  careful  physical  examination  and  diagnosing  clinically 
these  advanced  cases,  and  by  the  injection  of  double  or  triple  doses 
into  all  recently  tested  cattle,  with  the  taking  of  the  after  temper- 
ature, beginning  twQ  hours  following  the  injection  and  continuing 
hourly  for  20  hours. 

It  is  therefore  apparent  that  tuberculin  should  be  applied  only 
by  or  under  the  direction  of  a  competent  veterinarian,  capable  not 
only  of  injecting  the  tuberculin  but  also  of  interpreting  the  results, 
and  particularly  of  picking  out  all  clinical  cases  by  physical  exami- 
nation. The  latter  observation  is  extremely  important  and  should 
always  be  made  on  every  animal  tested. 

In  the  second  class  errors  are  avoided  by  eliminating  from  the 
test  those  cases  that  are  nearing  parturition  or  are  in  heat  or  show 
evidence  of  the  previously  mentioned  diseases  or  exhibit  tempera- 
tures sufficiently  high  to  make  them  unreliable  for  use  as  normal. 
Then,  in  reading  after  temperatures  it  is  advisable  not  to  recognize 
as  a  reaction  an  elevation  of  temperature  less  than  2°  F.  and  which 
at  the  same  time  must  go  above  103.8°  F.,  and  the  temperature  reac- 
tion must  likewise  have  the  characteristic  rainbow  curve.  (Those 
cases  which  approximate  but  do  not  reach  this  standard  should  be 
considered  as  suspicious  and  held  for  a  retest  six  weeks  later.)  In 
addition,  a  satisfactory  tuberculin  must  be  used;  also  an  accurate 
thermometer  and  a  reliable  syringe,  in  order  that  a  sufficient  dose  of 
tuberculin  may  be  given.  Finally,  the  number  of  apparent  errors  of 
the  tuberculin  test  will  be  greatly  diminished  if  a  careful  post- 
mortem examination  is  made,  giving  especial  attention  to  the  lymph 
glands.  This  low  percentage  of  failures  being  the  case,  cattle  owners 
should  welcome  the  tuberculin  test,  not  only  for  their  own  interest 
but  for  the  welfare  of  the  public  as  well.  Where  this  method  of 
diagnosing  the  disease  has  beeen  adopted  tuberculosis  is  gradually 
being  eradicated,  while  it  is  spreading  rapidly  and  becoming  widely 
disseminated  in  those  districts  in  which  the  tuberculin  test  has  not 
been  used.  Without  its  use  the  disease  can  not  be  controlled  and 
the  owner  is  confronted  with  serious  and  continuous  losses;   with 


TUBERCULOSIS.  419 

its  use  the  disease  can  be  eradicated  from  the  herd,  a  clean  herd 
established  in  a  few  years  without  very  serious  loss  or  hardship,  and 
the  danger  of  its  spread  to  man  removed.  Tuberculin  may  therefore 
be  considered  a  most  beneficial  discovery  for  the  stock  raiser. 
Strange  to  say,  many  of  these  men  have  been  incredulous,  antago- 
nistic, or  prejudiced  against  the  tuberculin  test  by  misinterpreting 
published  statements,  by  incorrect,  unsubstantiated,  or  exaggerated 
reports,  and  by  alleged  injurious  effects  to  healthy  cattle. 
Law  has  clearly  stated  the  question  when  he  says — 

Many  stock  owners  still  entertain  an  ignorant  and  unwarranted  dread  of  the 
tuberculin  test.  It  is  true  that  when  recklessly  used  by  ignorant  and  careless 
people  it  may  be  made  a  root  of  evil,  yet  as  employed  by  the  intelligent  and 
careful  expert  it  is  not  only  perfectly  safe,  but  it  is  the  only  known  means  of 
ascertaining  approximately  the  actual  number  affected  in  a  given  herd.  In 
most  infected  herds  living  under  what  are  in  other  respects  good  hygienic  condi- 
tions two-thirds  or  three-fourths  are  not  to  be  detected  without  its  aid,  so  that  in 
clearing  a  herd  from  tuberculosis  and  placing  both  herd  and  products  above 
suspicion  the  test  becomes  essential.  *  *  *  jq  skilled  hands  the  tuberculin 
test  will  show  at  least  nine-tenths  of  all  cases  of  tuberculosis  when  other 
methods  of  diagnosis  will  not  detect  one-tenth. 

Objection  to  its  use  among  those  who  are  not  acquainted  with  its 
method  of  preparation  or  its  properties  is  perfectly  natural,  but  it 
is  difficult  to  explain  the  antagonism  of  farmers  who  are  familiar 
with  the  facts  connected  with  the  manufacture  and  use  of  tuberculin. 
Probably  the  most  popular  objection  to  tuberculin  is  that  it  is  too 
searching,  since  it  discovers  cases  in  which  the  lesions  are  small  and 
obscure.  While  this  fact  is  admitted,  it  should  also  be  remembered 
that  such  a  small  lesion  to-daj''  mnj  break  down  and  become  widely 
disseminated  in  a  relatively  short  period.  Therefore  any  cow 
affected  with  tuberculosis,  even  to  a  slight  degree,  must  be  considered 
as  dangerous  not  only  to  the  other  animals  in  the  herd  but  also  to 
the  consumer  of  her  products. 

In  1898,  Bang,  of  Copenhagen,  one  of  the  highest  European 
authorities,  in  his  paper  presented  to  the  Congress  for  the  Study 
of  Human  and  Animal  Tuberculosis,  at  Paris,  said : 

Numerous  tests  made  in  almost  every  civilized  country  have  demonstrated 
that  in  the  majority  of  cases  tuberculin  is  an  excellent  means  for  diagnosing 
the  existence  or  nonexistence  of  the  disease,  but  giving  us  no  positive  infor- 
mation as  to  the  extent  to  which  the  disease  has  progressed.  When  tuberculin 
produces  a  typical  reaction  we  may  be  almost  sure  that  there  exists  in  the  body 
of  the  animal  a  tubercular  process.  The  cases  in  which  a  careful  examiner  has 
not  succeeded  in  finding  it  are  very  rare,  and  I  am  led  to  believe  that  when, 
notwithstanding  all  the  pains  taken,  it  has  escaped  discovery,  the  reason  is 
that  it  is  located  in  a  portion  of  the  body  that  is  particularly  inaccessible. 
Nevertheless,  it  is  not  to  be  denied  that  a  fever,  entirely  accidental  and  of 
short  duration,  may  in  some  rare  cases  have  simulated  a  reaction.  However 
this  may  be,  the  error  committed  in  wrongly  condemning  an  occasional  animal 
for  tuberculosis  is  of  no  practical  consequence. 


420  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

A  worse  aspect  of  the  case  is  that  there  are  some  diseased  animals  in  which 
tuberculin  fails  to  discover  the  existence  of  tuberculosis.  In  most  of  these,  no 
doubt,  the  deposits  are  old,  insignificant,  and  generally  calcified,  or  they  are 
cases  where  the  disease  is  arrested  and  perhaps  in  process  of  recovery,  and 
which  are  possibly  incapable  of  disseminating  the  contagion.  But  it  is  known 
that  there  are  cases,  not  altogether  rare,  where  tuberculin  fails  to  cause  a 
reaction  in  a  highly  tuberculous  animal,  and  consequently  one  in  which  the 
disease  exists  in  an  extremely  contagious  form.  For  this  reason  a  clinical 
examination  should  always  be  made  of  an  animal  Avhich  does  not  give  a  reac- 
tion but  which  shows  symptoms  indicating  that,  notwithstanding  the  test,  it 
may  suffer  from  tuberculosis. 

Nocard,  of  Paris,  wrote  also  in  1898  as  follows : 

The  degree  of  certainty  of  the  indications  furnished  may  be  stared  in  precise 
terms.  The  observation  of  a  clear  reaction  to  tuberculin  is  unequivocal ;  the 
animal  is  tuberculous.  The  pretended  errors  imputed  to  the  method  are  ex- 
plained by  the  extreme  sensitiveness  of  the  reagent,  which  is  capable  of  detect- 
ing the  smallest  lesion.  It  often  requires  prolonged  and  minute  researches  in 
the  depths  of  all  the  tissues  to  discover  the  few  miliary  centers,  the  presence 
of  which  has  been  revealed.  The  reaction  is  absolutely  specific.  In  those  cases 
where  it  is  observed  with  animals  which  show  lesions  of  another  disease  (acti- 
nomycosis, hydatid  disease,  verminous  bronchitis,  distomatosis),  it  may  be 
affirmed  that  there  exists,  in  addition  to  these  conspicuous  changes,  a  tubercu- 
lous center  which  alone  has  provoked  the  reaction. 

The  failure  to  react  does  not  necessarily  imply  absence  of  tubcrc%ilosis.  Such 
failures  of  tuberculin  are  very  exceptional.  They  are  seen  most  frequently  with 
animals  affected  with  tuberculosis  in  a  very  advanced  stage  and  made  evident 
by  plain  external  signs.  Sometimes,  also,  there  are  found  at  the  post-mortem 
examination  of  animals  which  have  not  reacted  small  fibrous  or  calcified  lesions 
in  such  a  condition  that  one  is  tempted  to  believe  them  cured.  "Whether  sterile 
or  not,  these  legions  have  no  tendency  to  increase,  and  they  are  not  very  danger- 
ous from  the  point  of  view  of  contagion. 

These  opinions  of  two  eminent  authorities,  living  in  different 
countries,  after  long  experience  of  their  own  and  after  studying  the 
results  of  the  many  tests  made  in  different  parts  of  the  world,  should 
have  great  weight.     They  are  essentially  the  same  throughout. 

In  1897  Voges  compiled  statistics  of  tuberculin  tests,  the  accuracy 
of  which  had  been  determined  by  post-mortem  examination.  Of 
7,327  animals  tested,  it  appeared  that  errors  had  been  made  with  204, 
or  2.78  per  cent.  In  the  work  of  the  Pennsylvania  Live  Stock  Sani- 
tary Board  post-mortem  examinations  were  made  on  about  4.400 
reacting  cattle  and  the  disease  was  found  in  all  but  8  of  those  which 
had  given  characteristic  reactions. 

The  results  of  a  much  larger  number  of  tests  might  be  compiled 
at  this  time,  but  they  would  not  materially  change  the  average  of 
those  already  mentioned.  It  is  plain  that  tuberculin  is  a  remarkably 
accurate  test  of  tuberculosis,  that  the  animals  which  react  may  be 
safely  considered  as  tuberculous,  and  that  when  a  careful  clinical 
examination  is  practiced  in  addition  to  the  test  there  are  few  animals 
in  a  dangerous  condition  which  escape  detection. 


TUBERCULOSIS.  421 

The  first  questions  asked  by  those  who  oppose  the  adoption  of  the 
tuberculin  tests  are:  Is  this  test  infallible?  and,  if  it  is  not  infallible, 
why  should  it  be  forced  upon  the  cattle  owners  of  the  country? 

In  answer  to  these  questions  it  may  be  said  that  tuberculin  is  not 
absolutely  infallible,  and  yet  it  is  by  far  the  best  method  of  diagnos- 
ing tuberculosis  that  has  been  discovered.  It  is  much  better  than  any 
test  known  for  pleuropneumonia  when  that  disease  was  eradicated. 

Practically  all  the  animals  that  react  are  affected  with  tuberculosis 
and  should  be  separated  from  the  herd,  not  only  in  the  interest  of 
the  public,  but  in  the  interest  of  the  owner  of  the  herd.  The  best 
authorities  admit,  after  studying  many  thousands  of  tests,  that  there 
are  feWj  if  any,  mistakes  made  in  condemning  cattle  which  show  a 
tj'pical  tuberculin  reaction.  The  errors  are  principally  in  the  other 
direction — that  is,  some  tuberculous  animals  are  not  discovered  by 
the  tuberculin  test,  but  as  the  most  dangerous  of  these  may  be 
picked  out  by  ordinary  clinical  examination  this  fault  of  tuberculin 
is  not  so  serious  as  it  at  first  sight  appears.  This  being  the  case,  it 
should  not  be  necessary  to  force  the  tuberculin  test  upon  owners. 
They  should  be  anxious  to  adopt  it  in  their  own  interests  and  for 
the  protection  of  their  patrons.  There  is  to-day  no  greater  danger 
to  the  cattle  and  hog  industries  than  that  which  confronts  them  in 
the  form  of  tuberculosis,  a  disease  already  widespread  and  rapidly 
extending.  Furthermore,  in  view  of  the  results  revealed  by  numer- 
ous tests  covering  vast  numbers  of  animals,  tuberculin  must  be  con- 
sidered as  harmless  for  healthy  animals.  It  has  also  been  clearly 
demonstrated  that  tuberculin  interferes  in  no  way  with  the  milking 
function  in  healthy  cattle;  neither  in  the  quantity  of  milk  nor  in 
butter- fat  value  has  any  variation  been  detected.  The  conclusions 
of  some  of  the  best  authorities  on  the  subject  of  its  harmlessness  to 
healthy  animals  are  given  below. 

Nocard  and  Leclainche  state: 

Direct  experiments  and  observations  collected  by  thousands  show  that  the 
tuberculin  injections  have  no  unfavorable  effect.  With  healthy  animals  the 
system  is  Indifferent  to  the  inoculation ;  with  tuberculous  animals  it  causes 
slight  changes  which  are  not  at  all  serious. 

Bang  has  written  as  follows  on  this  question : 

We  will  now  consider  the  following  question,  a  very  important  one,  in  the 
application  of  tuberculin,  viz :  Can  the  reaction  produce  a  worse  condition  in 
tuberculous  animals  than  before  existed?  Hess  emphatically  states  that  it  can, 
and  on  this  account  he  earnestly  warns  against  its  application.  My  attention 
has  been  directed  to  this  question  from  the  beginning.  In  my  first  publication 
on  tuberculin  injection  I  reported  two  cases  in  which  acute  miliary  tuberculosis 
was  proved  in  two  high-grade  tuberculous  cows  several  weeks  after  the  tuber- 
culin injection.  I  then  stated  my  suspicion  that  perhaps  the  tuberculin  injec- 
tion had  some  connection  with  this,  just  as  is  often  supposed  to  be  the  case 
in  human  practice      With  my  present  very  large  amount  of  material  for  obser- 


422  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

vation  at  hand  I  may  express  the  following  opinion :  Such  an  acute  develop- 
ment of  tuberculosis  as  a  result  of  tuberculin  injection  is  to  be  feared  only 
exceptionally,  and  then  in  cases  of  advanced  tuberculosis.  It  must  not  be  for- 
gotten that  acute  miliary  tuberculosis  by  no  means  rarely  accompanies  an 
advanced  tuberculosis  of  long  standing.  It  is  therefore  impossible  to  offer 
strict  proof  of  the  causal  connection  with  the  injection,  and  only  oft-repeate<l 
observation  could  make  this  probable.  In  support  of  my  view  I  offer  the 
following :  In  the  course  of  the  last  three  years  I  have  made  careful  post- 
mortem examinations  of  83  tuberculous  animals,  which  have  been  removed 
from  my  experiment  farm,  Thurebylille.  Among  these  were  18  (or,  strictly 
speaking,  23)  high-grade  tuberculous  animals.  I  have  been  able  to  prove 
miliary  tuberculosis  in  only  4  of  these.  Among  the  others,  which  showed  less 
developed  tuberculosis,  I  have  never  found  miliary  tuberculosis,  and  with 
very  many  I  have  never  found  any  sign  of  a  more  rapid  development  of  the 
pi'ocess.  On  the  contrary,  it  has  been  proved  that  the  disease  was  restricted 
locally,  often  for  years,  in  spite  of  yearly  repeated  injections.  Dissections  were 
made  at  very  different  periods  after  the  injections — in  17  cases  from  4  to  12 
days  after  the  last  test.  In  all  of  these  cases  earlier  tests  had  been  made 
months  or  years  before.  In  28  cases  the  injection  took  place  from  19  days 
to  2  months  before  the  butchering;  in  3  of  these  cases  earlier  injections  had 
been  made.  In  38  cases  from  two  and  one-half  months  to  one  year  intervened 
between  the  last  injection  and  the  dissection.  Dissection  gives  the  best  expla- 
nation of  this  question,  but  a  clinical  observation,  continued  for  years,  of  a  herd 
tested  with  tuberculin  can  render  very  essential  aid.  If  Hess's  opinion  is  cor- 
rect, it  is  to  be  assumed  that  tuberculosis  must  take  an  unusually  vicious 
course  in  such  herds,  but  this  I  have  been  unable  to  prove.  At  Thurebylille 
there  has  existed  for  three  years  a  reacting  division,  consisting  originally  of 
131  head  and  now  69.  Although  these  animals  are  yearly  tested,  and  although 
most  of  them  react  every  year,  the  division  certainly  appears  to  be  made 
up  of  healthy  animals,  and  the  farm  inspector  has  expressed  the  decided  opin- 
ion that  the  tuberculosis  m  this  division  is  no  more  develoi>ed  than  at  the 
beginning  of  the  experiment.  The  testimony  of  many  o\yners  of  large  herds 
of  cattle  which  have  long  ago  been  injected  is  to  the  same  effect.  I  will  ad- 
duce statements  from  several.  A  farm  tenant  whose  cattle  were  injected  20 
months  previously,  when  82  per  cent  of  the  grown  animals  reacted,  wrote  me 
recently  as  follows :  "  Only  2  cows  from  the  division  of  100  head  had  been 
sold  as  decidedly  tuberculous.  The  majority  appeared  afterwards,  just  as 
before,  entirely  healthy.  The  fat  animals  which  had  been  slaughtered  had 
been  pronounced  healthy  by  the  butchers."  Another  farm  tenant  with  a  herd 
injected  in  1894  had  not  been  obliged  to  remove  a  single  animal  from  the  tuber- 
culosis division,  numbering  70  head.  A  large  farm  owner  in  Jutland  stated 
in  September  that  he  had  traced  no  imdesirable  result  from  the  injection.  His 
herd  of  350  had  been  injected  in  February  and  about  75  per  cent  reacted. 
Similar  answers  have  been  given  by  other  owners  and  veterinarians. 

A  veterinarian  who  had  injected  600  animals,  among  them  a  herd  of  a  large 
farm,  18  months  previously,  expi'essed  the  belief  that  the  injection  had  pro- 
duced in  no  single  case  an  unusually  rapid  or  vicious  course  of  tuberculosis. 
In  spite  of  a  demand  made  months  ago,  I  have  received  thus  far  no  report  from 
any  veterinarian  of  an  undesirable  result. 

On  a  large  farm,  on  which  before  the  injection  tuberculosis  had  appeared 
in  a  vicious  form,  the  owner  liad  the  impression  that  the  severe  cases  had  after- 
wards become  more  numerous.  He  had,  however,  not  suffered  severe  losses, 
and  8  months  later  the  large  reacting  division  by  no  means  made  a  bad 
impression.     Finally,  it  is  to  be  noticed  that  tuberculin  has  been  employed  on 


TUBERCULOSIS.  423 

a  large  scale  in  Denmark  for  years,  and  still  the  demand  from  farmers  con- 
stantly increases.  This  could  certainly  not  be  the  case  if  the  injections  were 
generally  followed  by  bad  results. 

Paige  said,  after  the  tests  of  the  herd  of  the  Massachusetts  Agri- 
cultural College,  that  "  its  use  is  not  followed  by  any  ill  effects  of  a 
serious  or  permanent  nature." 

Lamson,  of  the  New  Hampshire  College  Agricultural  Experiment 
Station,  said :  "  There  is  abundant  testimony  that  its  use  is  not  in 
any  way  injurious  to  a  healthy  animal." 

Conn,  who  made  a  special  study  of  the  present  attitude  of  Euro- 
pean science  toward  tuberculosis  in  cattle,  reached  the  following 
conclusions : 

It  has  been,  from  the  first,  thought  by  some  that  the  use  of  tuberculin  pro- 
duces a  direct  injury  upon  the  inoculated  animals.  This,  however,  is  un- 
doubtedly a  mistake,  and  there  is  no  longer  any  belief  anywhere  on  the  part 
of  scientists  that  the  injury  thus  produced  is  worthy  of  note.  In  the  first  place, 
the  idea  that  it  may  produce  the  disease  in  a  perfectly  healthy  animal  by  the 
inoculation  is  absolutely  fallacious.  The  tuberculin  does  not  contain  the 
tubercle  bacillus,  and  it  is  absolutely  certain  that  it  is  impossible  to  produce  a 
case  of  tuberculosis  in  an  animal  unless  the  tubercle  bacilli  are  present.  The 
use  of  tuberculin,  therefore,  certainly  can  never  produce  the  disease  in  the 
inoculated  animal. 

It  has  been  more  widely  believed,  however,  that  the  inoculation  of  an  animal 
with  this  material  has  a  tendency  to  stimulate  an  incipient  case  of  tuberculosis. 
It  has  been  thought  that  an  animal  with  a  very  slight  case  of  the  disease  may, 
after  inoculation,  show  a  very  rapid  extension  of  this  disease  and  be  speedily 
brought  to  a  condition  where  it  is  beyond  any  use.  The  reasons  given  for  this 
have  been  the  apparent  activity  of  the  tuberculosis  infection  in  animals  that 
have  been  slaughtered  shortly  after  inoculation.  This  has  been  claimed,  not 
only  by  agriculturists  who  have  not  understood  the  subject  well,  but  also  by 
veterinarians  and  bacteriologists.  But  here,  too,  we  must  recognize  that  the 
claim  has  been  disproved,  and  that  there  is  now  a  practical  unanimity  of 
opinion  on  the  part  of  all  who  are  best  calculated  to  judge  that  such  an  in- 
jurious effect  does  not  occur.  Even  those  who  have  been  most  pronoimced  in 
the  claim  that  there  is  injury  thus  resulting  from  tuberculin  have,  little  by 
little,  modified  their  claim,  until  at  the  present  time  they  say  either  that  the 
injury  which  they  formerly  claimed  does  not  occur  or  that  the  stimulus  of  the 
disease  is  so  slight  that  it  should  be  absolutely  neglected  in  view  of  the  great 
\alue  which  may  arise  from  the  use  of  tuberculin.  Apart  from  two  or  three 
who  hold  this  vei'y  moderate  opinion,  all  bacteriologists  and  veterinarians  unite 
in  agreeing  that  there  is  no  evidence  for  believing  that  any  injury  results.  In 
Denmark,  especially,  many  hundreds  of  thousands  of  animals  have  been  inocu- 
lated, and  the  veterinarians  say  there  is  absolutely  no  season  in  all  their 
experience  for  believing  that  the  tuberculin  inoculation  is  followed  by  any 
injurious  results. 

In  1898  tuberculosis  was  found  in  the  large  Shorthorn  herd  belong- 
ing to  W.  C.  Edwards,  of  Canada,  who  with  commendable  prompt- 
ness and  public  spirit  had  his  animals  tested,  and  at  once  proceeded 
to  separate  the  diseased  from  the  healthy  animals.  They  were  all 
finely  bred  animals,  and  of  the  very  class  which  we  have  been  told 


424  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

are  most  susceptible  to  the  injurious  effects  of  tuberculin.  After 
using  this  test  regularly  for  two  years,  Mr.  Edwards  wrote  as  fol- 
lows: 

I  have  seen  nothing  to  lead  me  to  believe  that  the  tuberculin  test  had  any 
injurious  influence  on  the  course  of  the  disease.  It  is  by  no  means  our  opinion 
that  the  disease  has  been  stimulated  or  aggravated  by  the  application  of  the 
tuberculin  test.  All  animals  that  we  have  tested  two  or  three  times  continue 
as  hale  and  hearty  as  they  were  previously,  and  not  one  animal  in  our  herds 
has  broken  down  or  failed  in  any  way  since  we  began  testing. 

Mr.  Edwards,  in  December,  1901,  verbally  stated  that  his  views 
as  to  the  harmlessness  of  tuberculin  remained  unchanged,  and  that 
he  had  not  seen  the  least  ill  effect  in  an}^  of  his  cattle  from  its  use. 

Those  who  have  had  most  experience  with  tuberculin  have  failed 
to  observe  any  injurious  effects  following  its  use  upon  healthy  cattle. 
With  tuberculous  cattle  it  produces  a  fever  of  short  duration,  and  in 
the  great  majority  of  cases  all  derangement  of  the  system  which  it 
causes  disappears  within  48  hours  after  the  tuberculin  is  adminis- 
tered. There  appear  to  have  been  a  very  few  cases  in  which  the  dis- 
ease was  aggravated,  and  a  greater  number  in  which  it  was  benefited 
by  the  injection  of  tuberculin.  The  cases  of  abortion  following  the 
tuberculin  test  have  not  been  numerous,  even  when  cows  were  tested 
within  a  few  weeks  of  the  normal  time  of  calving.  The  few  cases  of 
this  kind  which  have  occurred  may  be  explained  by  the  fact  that 
abortion  in  cattle  is  a  very  common  occurrence,  and  that  it  would 
inevitably  happen  sometimes  after  the  tuberculin  test  as  a  mere  coin- 
cidence and  without  any  relation  between  the  test  and  the  loss  of 
the  calf.  The  cases  of  abortion  which  have  been  cited  appear  to  be 
no  more  numerous  than  might  be  expected  to  have  occurred  among 
the  same  number  of  cattle  within  the  same  period  if  the  test  had 
not  been  applied. 

Most  of  the  objections  to  tuberculin  would  probably  be  removed 
if  some  method  of  compensation  for  the  reacting  animals  could  be 
devised.  Thus,  in  Pennsylvania,  where  tuberculosis  is  being  eradi- 
cated with  more  success  than  in  any  other  State,  and  where  there  are 
usually  three  times  as  many  voluntary  requests  on  file  for  the  appli- 
cation of  the  test  as  can  be  made,  all  reacting  animals  are  paid  for 
by  the  State.  As  the  suppression  of  tuberculosis  is  a  public-health 
measure  it  would  appear  perfectly  logical  for  the  State  governments 
to  reimburse  cattle  owners  for  animals  condemned  and  slaughtered. 

Provision  could  be  made  to  pay  70  per  cent  of  the  appraised  value 
of  the  condemned  animals,  not  to  exceed  $50  per  head  for  common 
stock  or  $150  for  registered  stock.  Such  legislation  sliould  also  in- 
clude a  requirement  for  the  testing  of  all  cattle  coming  into  the  State. 

All  tuberculous  animals  should  be  slaughtered  in  abattoirs  having 
Federal  inspection,  and  the  money  obtained  from  carcasses  which  are 


TUBERCULOSIS.  425 

inspected  and  passed  for  food,  and  from  the  hide  and  offal  of  those 
carcasses  condemned  as  unfit  for  food,  should  be  applied  as  part  pay- 
ment on  the  indemnity  for  their  respective  owners.  The  payment  of 
indemnity  for  tuberculous  animals  is  a  good  business  policy  and 
would  do  more  toward  making  the  tuberculin  test  popular  with  cattle 
owners  than  any  other  possible  action;  also,  as  a  corollary  of  the 
latter,  more  testing  would  be  performed  and  more  tuberculous  cattle 
would  be  discovered  at  the  start,  but  the  gradual  suppression  of  the 
disease  would  soon  be  manifest,  as  has  been  noted  in  Pennsylvania 
and  Denmark.  Furthermore,  as  Stiles  has  mentioned,  if  tuberculosis 
can  be  eradicated  from  dairy  herds  with  but  slight  loss  to  the  owner, 
the  increase  in  the  price  of  milk  would  naturally  be  inhibited,  and, 
consequently,  the  children  of  poor  families  would  be  in  less  danger 
of  a  decrease  in  this  very  important  article  of  their  diet. 

From  the  investigations  and  observations  that  have  been  men- 
tioned, it  may  be  safely  concluded — 

1.  That  the  tuberculin  test  is  a  wonderfully  accurate  method  of 
determining  whether  an  animal  is  affected  with  tuberculosis. 

2.  That  by  its  use  the  animals  diseased  with  tuberculosis  may  be 
detected  and  removed  from  the  herd,  thereby  eradicating  the  disease. 

3.  That  it  has  no  injurious  effect  upon  healthy  cattle. 

4.  That  the  comparatively  small  number  of  cattle  which  have 
aborted,  suffered  in  health,  or  fallen  off  in  condition  after  the  test 
were  either  diseased  before  it  was  made  or  were  affected  by  some 
cause  other  than  the  tuberculin. 

SUMMaEY    of    directions    for    making    the    TrBERCL'LIN    TEST. 

1.  Stable  cattle  under  usual  conditions  and  among  usual  surround- 
ings, feed  and  water  in  the  customary  manner. 

2.  Make  a  physical  examination  of  each  animal,  and  give  to  each 
one  some  designation  by  which  the  animal  will  be  known  throughout 
the  test. 

3.  Take  each  animal's  temperature  at  least  three  times  at  two  or 
three  hour  intervals  on  the  day  of  injection;  for  instance,  at  2,  5, 
and  8  p.  m. 

4.  At  8  or  10  p.  m.  inject  a  dose  of  tuberculin  under  the  skin  in  the 
region  of  the  shoulder,  using  a  sterile  hypodermic  syringe  after  dis- 
infecting the  skin  at  the  seat  of  injection  with  a  5  per  cent  solution 
of  carbolic  acid  or  a  similar  antiseptic  solution.  / 

5.  Tuberculin  is  not  always  concentrated  to  the  same  degree  and 
therefore  the  dose,  which  should  always  appear  on  the  label,  varies 
considerabh?^.  The  dose  of  imported  tuberculin  is  0,25  cubic  centi- 
meter for  an  adult  cow,  and  before  injection  is  diluted  with  sterile 
water  to  2  cubic  centimeters.    The  tuberculin  made  by  the  Bureau 


426  DISEASES    OF   CATTLE. 

of  Animal  Industry  is  prepared  so  that  it  will  not  be  necessary  to 
dilute  it.  and  tlie  dose  is  2  cubic  centimeters  for  an  adult  animal. 
Yearlings  and  2-year-olds,  according  to  size,  should  receive  from 
1  to  1^  cubic  centimeters,  while  bulls  and  very  large  animals  may 
receive  3  cubic  centimeters. 

6.  The  next  day,  at  6  a.  m.,  commence  taking  temperatures,  and 
continue  every  two  or  three  hours  until  the  twentieth  hour  after 
injection,  at  which  time,  if  there  is  no  tendency  for  the  temperature 
to  rise,  the  test  may  cease. 

7.  A  rise  of  two  or  more  degrees  Fahrenheit  above  the  maximum 
temperature  observed  on  the  previous  day,  provided  the  temperature 
exceeds  103.8°  F.,  should  be  regarded  as  an  indication  of  tuberculosis. 
Those  cases  which  approximate  but  do  not  reach  this  standard  should 
be  considered  as  suspicious  and  held  for  a  retest  six  weeks  later,  giv- 
ing double  the  original  dose. 

TREATMENT   OF  TUBERCULOSIS. 

Treatment  of  the  disease  is  not  seriously  considere'd  by  any  author- 
ities at  the  present  time. 

The  measures  to  be  adopted  to  prevent  the  spreading  of  the  disease 
must  take  into  consideration  not  only  the  tubercle  bacillus,  but  like- 
wise all  those  circumstances  that  make  cattle  more  susceptible  to  the 
disease,  and  which  have  already  been  dwelt  upon.  It  would  be  useless 
to  repeat  here  all  that  has  been  said  above  on  the  transmission  of 
tubercle  bacilli  from  one  animal  to  another,  and  on  the  dangers  of 
certain  debilitating  influences.  A  careful  study  of  these  influences 
will  show  how  tuberculosis  may,  at  least  in  some  cases,  be  prevented. 
Great  care  should  be  bestowed  upon  the  breeding,  the  surroundings, 
and  the  feed  of  the  animal,  so  that  the  latter  may  be  put  into  a  condi- 
tion to  resist  irfection  even  when  exposed  to  it.  A  tuberculin  test 
should  be  applied  to  all  strange  cattle  before  they  are  introduced  into 
the  herd,  and  those  which  show  a  reaction  should  be  refused. 

A  rigid  exclusion  of  tuberculous  animals  is  all  that  is  necessary  to 
prevent  the  appearance  of  the  disease,  provided  cattle  are  not  infected 
by  consumptive  persons  and  animals,  though  it  is  probably  unusual, 
because  the  bacilli  from  man  are,  in  most  cases,  attenuated  and  harm- 
less to  cattle. 

Tuberculosis  in  cattle  must  also  be  considered  as  bearing  upon 
tuberculosis  of  other  domesticated  animals,  particularly  hogs.  In 
Europe  and  the  T"''nited  States  this  disease  is  not  uncommon  among 
hogs,  and  appears  to  be  on  the  increase.  The  reason  for  its  existence 
may  be  looked  for  in  the  feeding  of  pigs  with  skim  milk,  buttermilk, 
and  whey  from  creameries,  with  the  otfal  of  tlie  abattoirs,  with  the 
household  refuse  generally,  and  behind  tuberculous  cattle.     If  tuber- 


TUBERCULOSIS.  427 

culosis  is  common  among  cattle,  it  is  likely  to  be  transmitted  to  hogs 
kept  in  this  way. 

The  carcasses  of  animals  which  have  died  of  tuberculosis  should  be 
buried  deeply  so  that  they  can  not  be  eaten  by  other  animals.  This 
is  likewise  true  of  all  organs  or  tissues  of  slaughtered  animals  con- 
taining tubercles.  These  should  never  be  fed  to  other  animals,  such 
as  hogs,  dogs,  and  cats,  and  should  either  be  destroyed  by  fire  or 
deeph'  buried. 

When  any  of  the  animals  in  a  herd  of  cattle  show  evident  symp- 
toms of  tuberculosis,  or  when  the  tuberculin  test  proves  that  they 
are  affected  with  this  disease,  the  best  method  of  procedure  in  most 
cases  is  to  have  the  affected  animals  slaughtered  and  the  stables  dis- 
infected. A  large  proportion  of  the  animals  which  are  slightly 
affected  yield  carcasses  which  are  perfectly  wholesome  and  fit  for 
human  food,  but  in  all  such  cases  there  should  be  an  inspection  by  an 
expert  at  the  time  of  slaughter  to  determine  which  carcasses  may  be 
used  and  which  should  be  destroyed. 

The  disinfection  of  stables  may  be  accomplished  by  thoroughly 
cleaning  them,  scrubbing  the  floors  with  hot  water,  brushing  down 
all  loose  dust  from  the  walls,  and  tearing  off  all  woodwork  which  is 
partly  decayed.  Then  the  whole  interior  of  the  stable  should  be 
covered  with  a  good  coat  oi  limewash  containing  1  part  of  formalin 
(which  is  a  40  per  cent  watery  solution  of  formaldehyde)  to  30  parts 
of  the  lime  wash,  or  4  ounces  of  formalin  to  each  gallon  of  lime  wash. 

Similar  precautions  should  be  observed  in  removing  the  manure  of 
the  infected  herd  from  the  barnyard  and  other  places  accessible  to 
cattle,  since  it  is  known  that  tuberculous  cattle  frequently  eliminate 
large  numbers  of  tubercle  bacilli  through  the  feces.  The  ground 
under  the  manure  pile  should  then  be  disinfected,  either  by  the 
above-mentioned  formalin  solution  or  by  unslaked  lime  thickly 
sprinkled  over  the  soil. 

If  all  the  animals  which  react  are  destroyed  and  the  stables  dis- 
infected in  this  manner,  the  herd  should  remain  free  from  the  disease 
unless  other  affected  animals  are  added  to  it.  The  introduction  of 
the  disease  in  this  manner  may  be  avoided  by  requiring  a  tuberculin 
test  of  all  new  animals  admitted  on  the  premises. 

Unfortunately  it  is  a  fact  that  tuberculous  animals  which  have 
been  tested  several  times  may  become  so  accustomed  to  tuberculin 
that  they  will  no  longer  react;  consequently  it  is  always  advisable 
to  purchase  cattle  from  some  one  who  is  known  to  be  reliable,  as 
otherwise  animals  of  this  kind  may  be  treated  with  tuberculin  for 
the  purpose  of  hiding  the  disease. 

In  the  case  of  very  valuable  thoroughbred  animals,  it  may  be  more 
advantageous  to  retain  the  reacting  animals  which  are  in  good  con- 
dition in  order  to  breed  from  them  and  in  that  manner  avoid  the 


428  DISEASES   OP   CATTLE. 

excessive  loss  which  would  follow  from  their  immediate  slaughter. 
This  may  be  done  safely  if  proper  precautions  are  adopted.  Tho 
healthy  animals  should  be  separated  from  the  diseased  ones,  and  the 
stable  in  which  the  diseased  animals  have  been  should  be  frequently 
disinfected.  When  calves  are  dropped  by  the  tuberculous  cows  they 
should  be  immediately  removed,  or  at  least  not  allowed  to  drink  the 
mother's  milk  more  than  once  or  twice,  and  after  that  fed  upon  the 
milk  of  healthy  cows.  The  milk  from  the  animals  which  have 
reacted  should  not  be  used  until  after  it  has  been  boiled  and  the 
tubercle  bacilli  thus  destroyed.  The  younger  animals  which  are 
raised  from  tuberculous  dams  should  be  tested  when  they  are  about 
6  months  old,  and  all  those  which  react  should  be  immediately 
slaughtered.  It  has  been  found  that  by  following  the  i)lan  sug- 
gested above  not  more  than  1  or  2  per  cent  of  the  calves  develop 
tuberculosis.  It  is,  of  course,  some  trouble  to  follow  this  method, 
but  it  enables  the  owner  of  a  pure-bred  herd  to  retain  the  strains 
of  blood  which  he  has  been  breeding  and  gradually  to  eliminate  the 
disease.  At  the  end  of  six  or  eight  j^ears  he  should  have  a  herd  of 
cattle  free  from  tuberculosis  and  be  prepared  to  destroy  all  those 
which  have  reacted. 

BOVINE  TUBERCULOSIS  AND  THE  PUBLIC  HEALTH. 

The  increasing  amount  of  evidence  pointing  to  the  identity  of 
human  and  animal  tuberculosis,  combined  with  the  extraordinary 
mortality  of  human  beings  from  this  disease,  often  amounting  to  10 
to  14  per  cent,  has  raised  the  question  in  all  civilized  countries  as 
to  how  far  animal,  and  especially  bovine,  tuberculosis  is  to  blame 
for  this  high  mortality.  The  medical  and  veterinary  professions 
have  approached  this  problem  with  equal  zeal,  and  much  has  come  to 
light  within  recent  years  which  enables  us  to  come  to  some  conclu- 
sion. If  this  disease  is  transmitted  from  animals  to  man,  how  does 
the  transmission  take  place?  As  comparatively  few  people  come  in 
direct  contact  with  tuberculous  cattle,  it  must  be  either  through  the 
meat,  the  milk,  the  butter,  the  cheese,  or  through  all  these  products 
that  the  virus  enters  the  human  body.  The  question  has  thus  nar- 
rowed itself  down  to  the  food  products  furnished  by  cattle. 

It  has  become  a  very  urgent  question,  especially  in  the  poorer  coun- 
ti-ies  of  Europe,  whether  all  flesh  from  tuberculous  animals  is  unfit 
for  human  food.  It  is  argued  there  that  if  it  can  be  shown  that  in 
the  majority  of  cases  of  tuberculosis  the  bones  and  the  muscular 
system  are  free  from  infection,  there  is  no  reason  why  the  meat 
should  not  be  put  on  sale  under  certain  restrictions.  The  question 
may  be  resolved  into  two  divisions:  (1)  How  frequently  does  the 
disease  invade  those  parts  of  the  body  which  are  used  as  food? 
(2)   When  the  disease  process  is  manifestly  restricted  to  the  internal 


TUBERCULOSIS.  429 

organs,  do  tubercle  bacilli  circulate  in  the  blood  and  lymph  and  can 
they  be  detected  in  the  muscular  tissue? 

(1)  Disease  of  the  bones  is  not  unknown,  although  very  rare. 
According  to  Walley,  it  appears  chiefly  in  the  spongy  bones  of  the 
head  and  backbone  and  in  the  long  bones  of  the  limbs.  Occasionally 
the  ends  of  the. bones,  where  they  are  coA'^ered  by  the  synovial  mem- 
brane of  the  joints,  are  dotted  with  tubercles.  The  muscular  system 
itself  is  very  rarely  the  seat  of  tuberculous  deposits,  although  the 
lymphatic  glands  lying  near  and  among  the  muscles  may  be  not 
infrequently  diseased. 

(2)  Whether  tubercle  bacilli  are  found  in  muscle  juice  independent 
of  any  tuberculous  deposits  is  a  question  which  must  be  approached 
experimentally.  There  is  on  record  a  great  variety  of  opinions  on 
this  matter,  some  authorities  considering  all  flesh  from  tuberculous 
animals  unfit  for  food,  while  others  hold  a  contrary  view.  Experi- 
ments have  shown  that  in  rare  cases  the  flesh  of  tuberculous  cattle 
contains  a  small  number  of  tubercle  bacilli.  In  Germany  the  flesh 
or  animals  in  which  the  disease  is  just  beginning,  or  in  which  it  is 
restricted  to  one  or  more  related  organs,  is  not  rejected.  When, 
however,  the  disease  has  affected  the  muscles  or  bones,  or  lymphatic 
glands  situated  on  or  between  them,  the  flesh  is  condemned  as  unfit 
and  dangerous.  Animals  are  also  rejected  in  which  it  is  evident, 
from  the  general  distribution  of  tubercles  throughout  the  various 
organs,  that  the  bacilli  have  been  distributed  by  the  blood  and  may 
have  been  carried  into  the  muscular  system  (generalized  tuberculosis). 

Concerning  the  infectious  nature  of  milk  secreted  by  tuberculous 
cows,  authorities  have  universally  agreed  that  when  the  udder  itself 
is  in  the  slightest  degree  involved  the  milk  possesses  infectious  prop- 
erties, and  is  therefore  dangerous.  Tubercle  bacilli  in  large  numbers 
have  been  found  in  the  milk  and  the  udder  under  such  circumstances.- 
Unlike  other  affections  of  the  udder,  tuberculosis  of  this  organ  does 
not  at  once  change  the  appearance  and  the  quality  of  the  milk 
secreted.  Bang  states  that  for  at  least  a  month  after  the  disease  has 
appeared  the  milk  is  normal  in  appearance  and  may  be  consumed 
and  sold  without  arousing  the  suspicion  of  the  owner.  Considerable 
danger  is,  therefore,  involved  in  this  disease,  and  the  necessity  for 
the  careful  inspection  of  dairy  cows  seems  more  urgent  than  ever. 

Authorities  are,  however,  not  fully  agreed  as  to  whether  the  milk 
from  tuberculous  cows  in  which  the  udder  is  apparently  not  invaded 
by  the  disease  should  be  considered  dangerous  or  not.  Some  incline 
to  the  belief  that  the  milk  secreted  by  healthy  udders  is  never  infec- 
tious, even  when  the  lungs  or  other  organs  are  affected ;  that,  in  other 
words,  the  tubercle  bacilli  are  rarely,  if  ever,  separated  from  the 
lesions  which  they  produce,  and  that  the  udder  itself  must  be  diseased 
before  tubercle  bacilli  can  appear  in  the  milk.     Experiments  made 


430  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

with  the  milk  of  tuberculous  cows  in  which  there  were  no  indications 
of  udder  disease  do  not  bear  out  this  theory,  since  tubercle  bacilli 
have  been  found  in  their  milk.  Some  authorities  still  believe  that 
the  udder  is  diseased  when  the  milk  is  infected,  but  that  the  disease 
escapes  observation.  However  this  may  be,  the  fact  that  the  udder 
may  be  diseased  and  the  disease  not  recognizable  simply  casts  sus- 
picion upon  all  milk  from  tuberculous  animals.  We  know  that  the 
milk  of  tuberculous  cattle  may  or  may  not  contain  tubercle  bacilli 
when  the  udder  is  apparently  free  from  disease,  but  we  have  no  rapid 
method  of  determining  whether  in  any  given  case  the  milk  contains 
tubercle  bacilli  or  not.  Moreover,  the  bacilli  may  be  absent  at  one 
time  and  present  at  another  in  milk  from  the  same  cow.  When  we 
consider,  therefore,  the  extent  of  tuberculosis  and  the  hidden  charac- 
ter of  the  disease,  a  certain  degree  of  suspicion  rests  upon  all  milk. 
Fortunately,  tubercle  bacilli  are  readily  destroyed  by  the  tempera- 
ture of  boiling  water,  and  hence  both  meat  and  milk  are  made  entirely 
safe,  the  former  by  the  various  processes  of  cooking,  the  latter  by 
boiling  for  a  few  moments.  Until  better  means  of  diagnosis  are  at 
hand  it  is  incumbent  upon  all  communities  to  have  dairy  cows  exam- 
ined or  inspected,  at  least  to  the  extent  of  finding  out  whether  the 
udder  shows  any  signs  of  disease.  If  this  is  detected,  the  aiffected 
animal  should  be  killed  at  once  or  else  all  opportunity  for  the  sale  of 
such  milk  removed  by  appropriate  measures.  The  dangers  from 
infected  milk  may  by  these  means  be  very  materially  lessened. 

Recently  there  has  been  much  discussion  of  the  question  as  to 
whether  human  and  animal  tuberculosis  are  identical  diseases  and 
as  to  the  possibility  of  the  tuberculosis  of  animals  being  transmitted 
to  man  or  that  of  man  being  transmitted  to  animals. 

The  fact  that  tuberculous  material  from  human  subjects  often 
failed  to  produce  serious  disease  in  cattle  was  observed  by  a  number 
of  the  earlier  investigators  who  experimented  with  such  virus.  It 
was  the  experiments  and  comparative  studies  of  Theobald  Smith, 
however,  which  attracted  special  attention  to  the  difference  in  viru- 
lence shown  by  tubercle  bacilli  from  human  and  bovine  sources  when 
inoculated  upon  cattle.  Smith  mentioned  also  certain  morphological 
and  cultural  differences  in  bacilli  from  these  two  sources,  and  in  the 
location  and  histology  of  the  lesions  in  cattle  produced  by  such 
bacilli.  He  did  not  conclude,  however,  that  bovine  bacilli  could  not 
produce  disease  in  the  human  subject,  but  said : 

It  seems  to  me  tliat,  accepting  the  clinical  evidence  on  hand,  bovine  tubercu- 
losis may  be  transmitted  to  children  when  the  body  is  overpowered  by  larjre 
numbers  of  bacilli,  as  in  udder  tuberculosis,  or  when  certain  unknown  favorable 
conditions  exist. 

Koch,  however,  in  his  address  at  the  British  Congress  on  Tubercu- 
losis, went  far  bevond  this  and  maintained  that  "  human  tubercu- 


TUBERCULOSIS.  431 

losis  differs  from  bovine  and  can  not  be  transmitted  to  cattle."  As 
to  the  susceptibility  of  man  to  bovine  tuberculosis,  he  said  it  was  not 
yet  absolutely  decided,  but  one  was  "  nevertheless  already  at  liberty 
to  say  that,  if  such  a  susceptibility  really  exists,  the  infection  of 
human  beings  is  but  a  very  rare  occurrence."  He  emphasizes  this 
view  in  the  following  language : 

I  should  estimate  the  extent  of  infection  by  the  millv  and  flesh  of  tubercular 
cattle  and  the  butter  made  of  their  milk  as  hardly  greater  than  that  of  heredi- 
tary transmission,  and  I  therefore  do  not  deem  it  advisable  to  take  any 
measures  against  it. 

This  conclusion  was  so  radically  different  from  the  views  of  most 
experimenters  and  so  out  of  harmony  with  facts  which  had  ap- 
parently been  demonstrated  by  others  that  it  at  once  aroused  opposi- 
tion in  the  congress,  followed  by  the  adoption  of  dissenting  resolu- 
tions, and  led  to  numerous  investigations  in  various  countries. 
Kock's  conclusions  were  based  upon  his  failure  to  produce  tubercu- 
losis in  cattle  and  other  animals  by  inoculating  them  with  tuberculous 
material  of  human  origin  and  his  success  in  causing  progressive  and 
fatal  tuberculosis  in  the  same  kinds  of  animals  when  inoculated  with 
tuberculous  material  of  bovine  origin.  With  such  positiveness  did 
he  hold  to  the  constant  and  specific  difference  between  the  human  and 
bovine  bacillus  that  he  promulgated  an  experimental  method  of  dis- 
criminating between  them.  Speaking  of  the  etiology  of  intestinal 
tuberculosis  in  man,  he  said : 

Hitherto  nobody  could  decide  with  certainty  in  such  a  case  whether  the 
tuberculosis  of  the  intestine  was  of  human  or  of  animal  origin.  Now  we  can 
diagnose  them.  All  that  is  necessary  is  to  cultivate  in  pure  culture  the 
tubercle  bacilli  found  in  the  tubercular  material,  and  to  ascertain  whether  they 
belong  to  bovine  tuberculosis  by  inoculating  cattle  with  them.  For  this  pur- 
pose I  recommend  subcutaneous  injection,  which  yields  quite  specially  charac- 
teristic and  convincing  results. 

These  important  and  comprehensive  conclusions  followed  from  a 
comparatively  few  experiments  upon  animals,  and  apparently  no 
effort  had  been  made  to  learn  to  what  extent  human  tubercle  bacilli 
may  differ  in  their  virulence  for  cattle  or  what  grades  of  virulence 
there  might  be  among  bacilli  of  bovine  origin.  Vagedes  had  already 
shown  that  bacilli  were  sometimes  present  in  human  lesions  which 
were  as  virulent  as  bovine  bacilli,  but  his  work  was  wholl}'  ignored 
by  Koch. 

A  considerable  number  of  investigators,  including  Chauveau, 
A^agedes,  Eavenel,  De  Schweinitz,  Mohler,  De  Jong,  Delepine,  Orth, 
Stenstrom,  Fibiger  and  Jensen,  Max  Wolff,  Nocard,  Arloing,  Behr- 
ing,  Dean  and  Todd,  Hamilton  and  Young,  the  German  Tuberculosis 
Commission,  and  Theobald  Smith,  have  found  tubercle  bacilli  in  the 
bodies  of  human  beings  who  died  of  tuberculosis  which  proved  to 


432  .  DISEASES   OP   CATTLE. 

have  about  the  same  virulence  for  cattle  as  had  the  bacilli  from 
bovine  animals  affected  by  the  disease. 

Kossel,  in  a  preliminary  report,  stated  that  the  German  commission 
had  tested  7  cultures  of  tuberculosis  from  cattle  and  hogs — 4  from 
cattle  and  3  from  hogs.  Two  proved  acutely  fatal  in  cattle  after 
eight  to  nine  weeks;  4  likewise  produced  a  generalized  tuberculosis, 
but  which  certainly  had  a  more  chronic  course,  while  1  of  the  cul- 
tures caused  only  an  infiltration  at  the  point  of  inoculation,  w'ith 
some  caseous  foci  in  the  adjoining  prescapular  gland  and  in  one  of 
the  mediastinal  glands,  and  there  was  lacking  the  spreading  of  the 
tuberculosis  over  the  entire  body  which  they  were  accustomed  to  see 
after  the  injection  of  cultures  of  bovine  tuberculosis.  "  Hence,"  sayg 
Kossel,  "  among  bovine  tuberculosis  bacilli  there  can  also  occur  differ- 
ences with  regard  to  the  virulence." 

The  German  commission  also  tested  39  different  freshly  made  cul- 
tures from  tuberculous  disease  in  man.  Nineteen  did  not  produce  the 
slightest  symptoms  in  cattle;  with  9  others  the  cattle  exhibited  after 
four  months  very  minute  foci  in  the  prescapular  glands,  which  were 
mostly  encapsuled  and  showed  no  inclination  to  progress;  with  7 
other  cases  there  was  somewhat  more  marked  disease  of  the  prescap- 
ular glands,  but  it  did  not  go  so  far  as  a  material  spreading  of  the 
process  to  the  adjoining  glands.  There  were  4  cultures,  however, 
which  were  more  virulent  and  caused  generalized  tuberculosis  in  the 
cattle  inoculated  with  them. 

It  would  appear,  therefore,  that  hereafter  everyone  must  admit 
that  it  is  impossible  always  to  tell  the  source  of  a  culture  of  the 
tubercle  bacillus  by  its  effect  w^hen  it  is  inoculated  upon  cattle.  One 
of  the  bovine  cultures  failed  to  produce  generalized  tuberculosis  in 
cattle,  and  some  of  the  human  cultures  did  produce  it  in  such  ani- 
mals. Moreover,  while  some  of  the  human  cultures  caused  no  disease 
at  all,  others  led  to  the  development  of  minute  foci  in  the  prescapular 
glands,  and  still  others  to  somewhat  more  marked  disease  of  the 
glands.  There  were,  consequently,  four  degrees  of  virulence  noted 
in  these  39  cultures  of  bacilli  from  human  sources  and  three  degrees 
of  virulence  in  the  7  cultures  from  animal. 

Now,  if  we  accept  the  views  of  Koch  as  to  the  specific  difference 
between  human  and  bovine  tubercle  bacilli,  and  that  the  human  bacilli 
produce  only  localized  lesions  in  cattle,  while  bovine  bacilli  produce 
generalized  lesions  in  them,  must  we  not  conclude  that  the  one  non- 
virulent  bovine  culture  was  in  reality  of  human  origin,  and  that 
the  animal  from  which  it  was  obtained  had  been  infected  from 
man?  This  is  a  logical  deduction,  but  reverses  the  dictum  laid  down 
at  London  that  human  tuberculosis  is  not  transmissible  to  cattle. 
Again,  how  are  we  to  explain  the  human  cultures  of  medium  viru- 
lence?   Are  they  human  bacilli  which,  for  some  unknown  reason,  are 


TUBEBCULOSIS.  433 

increasing  in  virulence  and  approaching  the  activity  of  the  bovine 
bacillus,  or  are  they  really  bovine  bacilli  which  have  multiplied  in 
the  human  body  until  their  virulence  has  become  attenuated?  In 
whatever  manner  these  questions  are  decided  it  would  se«m  that  the 
findings  of  the  German  commission,  instead  of  supporting  Koch's 
views  that  we  can  decide  with  certainty  by  the  inoculation  of  cattle 
as  to  the  source  of  any  given  bacillus,  really  show  that  this  method 
of  diagnosis  is  extremely  uncertain  in  the  present  condition  of  our 
knowledge. 

It  is  definitely  admitted  that  4  of  the  human  cultures  caused  gen-\ 
eralized  tuberculosis  in  cattle ;  Kossel  suggest,  however,  that  it  may  be 
possible  that  the  bacilli  in  cases  of  human  tuberculosis  under  certain 
circumstances  can  likewise  attain  a  very  high  pathogenic  activity 
for  cattle  without  being  for  that  reason  bovine  bacilli.  Undoubtedly 
the  German  commission  is  confronting  the  two  horns  of  a  dilemma, 
either  one  of  Avhich  is  fatal  to  the  views  of  Koch  as  stated  with  such 
positiveness  at  London.  If  we  accept  this  suggestion  thrown  out  by 
Kossel,  we  must  conclude  that  Koch  was  wrong  in  his  claim  that 
human  tuberculosis  can  not  be  transmitted  to  cattle,  and  thus  with 
one  blow  we  destroy  the  entire  experimental  support  which  he  had 
for  his  argument  before  the  British  Congi^ess  on  Tuberculosis.  If, 
on  the  other  hand,  we  accept  the  conclusion  which  follows  from 
the  principle  laid  down  by  Koch  for  the  discrimination  between 
human  and  bovine  bacilli,  and  which  appears  to  be  favored  by  Kossel, 
we  must  admit  that  bovine  tuberculosis  is  an  extremely  important 
factor  in  the  etiology  of  human  tuberculosis.  Of  the  39  cases  of 
human  tuberculosis  tested,  4,  or  more  than  10  per  cent,  were  virulent 
for  cattle  and  would  be  classified  as  of  bovine  origin ;  however,  these 
4  cases,  were  all  found  among  the  16  cases  of  tuberculosis  in  children 
which  the  commission  investigated ;  hence  it  is  plain  that  25  per  cent 
of  the  cases  tested  of  tuberculosis  in  children  would  by  Koch's  method 
be  classified  as  of  bovine  origin. 

In  the  Bureau  of  Animal  Industry  two  distinct  lines  of  experi- 
ments have  been  carried  on,  in  order  that  one  might  serve  as  a 
check  against  the  other.  There  has  been,  however,  no  discrepancy 
in  the  results.  De  Schweinitz,  in  the  Biochemic  Division,  Bureau 
of  Animal  Industry,  isolated  9  cultures  from  human  tuberculosis. 
Two  were  derived  from  human  sputum,  3  from  cases  of  generalized 
tuberculosis  in  adults,  and  4  from  cases  of  generalized  tuberculosis 
in  children.  By  comparing  these  cultures  with  a  newly  isolated 
virulent  culture  of  bovine  tuberculosis,  there  were  found  among 
them  2  cultures  from  children  which  were  identical  in  their  cul- 
tural and  morphological  characters  with  the  bovine  bacillus.  These 
cultures  also  killed  rabbits  and  guinea  pigs  in  as  short  a  time  as 
did  the  bovine  bacillus.  Hogs  which  Avere  inoculated  subcutane- 
33071°— 16 28 


434  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

ously  with  these  2  cultures  from  children  died  of  generalized  tuber- 
culosis. Two  calves  weighing  more  than  300  pounds  each  were 
inoculated  subcutaneously  with  these  virulent  human  cultures,  and 
as  a  result  developed  generalized  tuberculosis.  A  yearling  heifer 
inoculated  with  1  of  the  cultures  showed  generalized  tuberculosis 
when  killed  three  months  after  inoculation.  Both  the  cattle  and 
the  hogs  had  been  tested  with  tuberculin  and  found  to  be  free  from 
tuberculosis  before  the  inoculations  were  made.  It  is  important 
to  observe  in  this  connection  that  2  out  of  4,  or  50  per  cent,  of  the 
cultures  obtained  from  cases  of  generalized  tuberculosis  in  children 
proved  virulent  for  cattle. 

Mohler,  working  in  the  Pathological  Division,  Bureau  of  Animal 
Industry,  has  obtained  3  very  virulent  cultures  of  tubercle  bacilli 
from  the  human  subject.  A  goat  inoculated  subcutaneously  with 
1  of  these  cultures  died  in  37  days  with  miliary  tuberculosis  of  the 
lungs  involving  the  axillary  and  prescapular  glands.  This  bacillus 
was  obtained  from  the  mesenteric  gland  of  a  boy.  Of  still  greater 
interest  is  a  bacillus  isolated  by  Mohler  from  human  sputum.  A 
goat  inoculated  subcutaneously  with  a  culture  of  this  germ  died  in 
95  days  of  pulmonary  tuberculosis.  A  cat  inoculated  in  the  same 
manner  died  in  23  days  of  generalized  tuberculosis.  A  rabbit  simi- 
larly inoculated  died  in  59  days  of  jDulmonary  tuberculosis.  An- 
other rabbit  inoculated  with  a  bovine  culture  for  comparison  lived 
10  days  longer  than  the  one  inoculated  with  this  sputum  germ. 
Mohler  also  inoculated  subcutaneously  a  1-year-old  heifer  with  a 
culture  derived  from  the  tuberculosis  mesenteric  gland  of  a  boy  4 
years  of  age.  This  culture  was  always  refractory  in  its  growth  under 
artificial  conditions,  and  the  bacilli  were  short,  stubby  rods,  corre- 
sponding in  appearance  with  the  bovine  type.  At  the  autopsy,  held 
127  days  after  the  inoculation,  the  general  condition  was  seen  to  be 
poor  and  unthrifty,  and  large,  hard  tumors  were  found  at  the  points 
of  inoculation.  On  the  right  side  the  swelling  measured  3^  by  5 
inches,  and  the  corresponding  lympth  gland  was  2'^  inches  long  by 
If  inches  in  diameter.  This  gland  contained  numerous  calcareous 
foci;  one  at  the  apex  was  an  inch  in  diameter.  The  lesions  on  the 
left  shoulder  of  the  animal  were  very  similar  to  those  found  on  the 
right  side,  but  the  dimensions  of  the  tumor  were  slightly  less.  The 
lungs  presented  an  irregular  mass  of  tuberculous  nodules,  and  7 
or  8  grapelike  nodules  were  seen  on  the  parietal  pleura.  Bronchial 
and  mediastinal  lymph  glands  contained  ninnerous  tuberculous  foci, 
and  the  pericardium,  peritoneum,  spleen,  and  liver  also  were  affected. 

In  order  to  throw  some  light,  if  possible,  upon  the  morphological 
constancy  of  the  different  types  of  tubercle  bacilli,  Mohler  has  made 
comparative  studies  of  bacilli  from  various  sources,  and  which  had 
been  passed  through  various  species  of  animals,  by  making  the  cul- 


TUBERCULOSIS.  435 

tures  upon  dog  serum  after  the  method  described  by  Theobald  Smith. 
Some  important  results  have  been  obtained.  One  culture  of  human 
bacilli  which  had  morphological  and  cultural  peculiarities  similar  to 
those  of  the  bovine  bacillus,  and  which  produced  only  local  lesions  in 
cattle,  was  passed  through  a  series  of  five  cats.  It  was  then  found  to 
be  completely  changed  in  its  morphological  charactres,  the  rods  being 
elongated,  slender,  more  or  less  beaded,  and  entirely  of  the  human 
type.  Far  from  decreasing  in  virulence,  however,  as  might  be  ex- 
pected from  its  morphological  appearance,  this  bacillus  had  so  in- 
creased in  its  pathogenic  activity  that  it  produced  generalized  tuber- 
culosis in  a  cow.  This  cow  was  inoculated  subcutaneously  in  front 
of  each  shoulder  with  2  cubic  centimeters  of  a  salt-solution  emulsion 
of  the  tuberculous  omentum  of  the  last  cat  of  the  series.  The  cow 
rapidly  lost  flesh,  had  a  temperature  of  104°  F.,  with  the  point  of  in- 
oculation and  adjacent  glands  greatly  swollen.  The  autopsy  re- 
vealed generalized  tuberculosis,  involving  the  lungs,  mediastinal 
glands,  spleen,  liver,  and  kidneys.  Tubercle  bacilli  of  the  bovine 
type  obtained  from  the  mesenteric  glands  of  a  sheep,  hog,  and  cow 
were  similarly  transformed  in  their  morphological  appearance  after 
being  passed  through  a  series  of  cats  and  recovered  on  dog  serum. 
These  bacilli  also  increased  in  virulence,  as  the  last  cat  in  the  series 
invariably  succumbed  in  a  shorter  time  than  the  first  of  the  series. 

These  experiments  and  observations  indicate  that  the  types  of 
tubercle  bacilli  are  very  inconstant,  and  that  under  suitable  condi- 
tions they  readily  change  both  in  morphology  and  in  virulence.  A 
similar  conclusion  was  reached  by  other  investigators  in  working 
with  the  avian  and  piscine  types  of  tubercle  bacilli  several  years  ago, 
and  was  reasonably  to  have  been  expected  with  the  human  and  bovine 
types. 

It  must  be  plain  to  all,  from  these  recent  developments,  that  too 
much  has  been  made  of  the  slight  differences  in  cultural  character- 
istics, in  morphology,  and  in  virulence  which  have  been  observed  in 
some  cases  in  comparing  the  human  and  the  bovine  bacilli.  The 
observations  were  interesting,  and  it  was  important  that  they  be 
followed  up  until  their  significance  was  made  entirely  clear,  but  it 
was  an  almost  unpardonable  error,  from  a  sanitary  point  of  view, 
to  promulgate  sweeping  generalizations  calculated  to  arrest  and 
abolish  important  measures  for  preventing  human  tuberculosis  before 
the  soundness  of  these  generalizations  had  been  established  by  a 
thorough  course  of  experimentation. 

When  Koch  said  in  the  British  Congress  on  Tuberculosis  that  he 
should  estimate  the  extent  of  infection  by  the  milk  and  flesh  of  tuber- 
culous cattle  and  the  butter  made  of  their  milk  as  hardly  greater  than 
that  of  hereditary  transmission,  and  that  he  therefore  did  not  deem 
it  advisable  to  take  any  measures  against  it,  he  went  far  beyond  what 


436  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

was  justified  by  any  experiments  or  observations  which  he  reported, 
and  he  did  a  great  deal  of  harm,  which  will  be  manifested  for  years 
to  come,  to  those  who  endeavor  to  guard  the  human  race  from  the 
dangers,  of  animal  tuberculosis.  The  researches  which  have  been 
alluded  to  make  these  dangers  more  definite  and  certain  than  they 
have  appeared  before,  and  sanitarians  should  therefore  most  ear- 
nestly endeavor  to  counteract  the  erroneous  and  harmful  impression 
which  was  made  by  Koch's  address  at  London  and  his  subsequent 
address  at  the  International  Conference  on  Tuberculosis  at  Berlin. 

VARIOLA. 

Variola  of  cattle,  commonly  known  as  "  cowpox,"  is  a  contagious 
disease  of  cattle  which  manifests  its  presence  through  an  elevation  of 
temperature,  a  shrinkage  in  milk  production,  and  by  the  appearance 
of  characteristic,  pustular  eruptions,  especially  upon  the  teats  and 
udders  of  dairy  cows.  Although  this  is  a  contagious  disease,  strictly 
speaking,  it  is  so  universally  harmless  and  benign  in  its  course  that 
it  is  robbed  of  the  terrors  which  usually  accompany  all  spreading 
diseases,  and  is  allowed  to  enter  a  herd  of  cattle,  run  its  course,  and 
disappear  without  exciting  any  particular  notice. 

The  contagion  of  cowpox  does  not  travel  through  the  air  from 
animal  to  animal,  but  is  transfused  only  by  actual  contact  of  the 
contagious  principle  with  the  skin  of  some  susceptible  animal.  It 
may  be  carried  in  this  manner,  not  alone  from  cattle  to  cattle,  but 
horses,  sheep,  goats,  and  man  may  readily  contract  the  disease  when- 
ever suitable  conditions  attend  their  inoculation. 

An  identical  disease  frequently  appears  upon  horses,  attacking 
their  heels,  and  thence  extending  upward  along  the  leg,  producing,  as 
it  progresses,  inflammation  and  swelling  of  the  skin,  followed  later 
by  pustules,  which  soon  rupture,  discharging  a  sticky,  disagreeable 
secretion.  Other  parts  of  the  body  are  frequently  affected  in  like 
manner,  especially  in  the  region  of  the  head,  where  the  eruptions  may 
appear  upon  lips  and  nostrils,  or  upon  the  mucous  surfaces  of  the 
nasal  cavities,  mouth,  or  eyes. 

Variola  of  the  horse  is  readily  transmitted  to  cattle,  if  both  are 
cared  for  by  the  same  attendant,  and,  conversely,  variola  of  cattle 
may  be  carried  from  the  cow  to  the  hoi"se  on  the  hands  of  a  person 
who  has  been  milking  a  cow  affected  with  the  disease. 

The  method  of  vaccination  with  material  derived  from  the  erup- 
tions of  cowpox  as  a  safeguard  against  the  ravages  of  smallpox  in 
members  of  the  human  family  is  well  known.  The  immunity  which 
such  vaccination  confers  upon  the  human  subject  has  led  many 
writers  to  assert  that  cowpox  is  simply  a  modified  form  of  smallpox, 
whose  harmless  attack  upon  the  human  system  is  owing  to  a  certain 
attenuation  derived  during  its  passages  through  the  system  of  the 


VARIOLA.  437 

COW  or  horse.  The  results  of  numerous  experiments  which  have  been 
carried  out  for  the  purpose  of  determining  the  reL^tionship  existing 
between  variohi  of  the  human  and  bovine  families  seem  to  show, 
however,  that  although  possessing  many  similar  characteristics,  they 
are  nevertheless  distinct,  and  that  in  spite  of  repeated  inoculations 
from  cattle  to  man,  and  vice  versa,  no  transformation  in  the  real 
character  of  the  disease  ever  takes  place. 

Symptcxms. — The  disease  appears  in  four  to  seven  days  after 
natural  infection,  or  may  evince  itself  in  two  or  three  days  as  the 
result  of  artificial  inoculation.  Young  milch  cows  are  most  sus- 
ceptible to  an  attack,  but  older  coavs,  bulls,  or  young  cattle  are  by  no 
means  immune.  The  attack  causes  a  slight  rise  in  temperature,  which 
is  soon  followed  by  the  appearance  of  reddened,  inflamed  areas,  prin- 
cipally upon  the  teats  and  udder,  and  at  times  on  the  abdominal  skin 
or  the  skin  of  the  inner  surface  of  the  thighs.  In  a  few  cases  the 
fkin  of  the  throat  and  jaws  has  been  found  similarly  involved.  If 
the  affected  parts  are  examined  on  the  second  day  after  the  establish- 
ment of  the  inflammation  numerous  pale-red  nodules  will  be  found, 
Avhich  gi'adually  expand  until,  within  a  few  days,  they  reach  a  diam- 
eter of  one-half  inch  or  even  larger.  At  this  period  the  tops  of  the 
nodules  become  transformed  into  vesicles  which  are  depressed  in  the 
center  and  contain  a  pale,  serous  fluid.  They  usually  reach  their 
maturity  by  the  tenth  day  of  the  course  of  the  disease  and  are  then 
the  size  of  a  bean.  From  this  time  the  contents  of  the  vesicles  become 
purulent,  which  requires  about  three  days,  when  the  typical  pox 
pustule  is  present,  consisting  of  a  swelling  with  broad,  reddened  base, 
within  which  is  an  elevated,  conical  abscess  varying  from  the  size  of 
a  pea  to  that  of  a  hazlenut. 

The  course  of  the  disease  after  the  full  maturity  of  the  pustule  is 
rapid  if  outside  interference  has  not  caused  a  premature  rupture  of 
the  small  abscess  at  the  apex  of  the  swelling.  The  pustules  gradu- 
ally become  darker  colored  and  drier  until  nothing  remains  but  a 
thick  scab,  which  at  last  falls  off,  leaving  only  a  slight,  whitish  scar 
behind.  The  total  duration  of  the  disease  covers  some  20  days  in 
each  animal,  and  owing  to  the  slow  spread  of  the  infection  from 
animal  to  animal,  many  weeks  may  elapse  before  a  stable  can  be  fully 
freed  from  it.  The  fallen  scabs  and  crusts  may  retain  their  conta- 
gious properties  for  several  days  when  mixed  with  litter  and  bedding 
upon  the  floor  of  the  stable,  and  at  any  time  during  this  period  they 
are  capable  of  producing  new  outbreaks  should  fresh  cattle  be  brought 
into  the  stalls  and  thus  come  into  actual  contact  with  them.  Again, 
the  pustules  may  appear,  one  after  another,  on  a  single  animal,  in 
which  case  the  duration  of  the  disease  is  materially  lengthened. 

Treatment. — In  herds  of  cattle  that  regularly  receive  careful  han- 
dling, no  special  treatment  will  be  found  necessary  beyond  the  appli- 


438  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

cation  of  softening  and  disinfecting  agents  to  such  vesicles  upon  the 
teats  as  may  have  become  ruptured  by  the  hands  of  the  milker.  Car- 
bolized  vaseline  or  iodoform  ointment  will  be  found  well  suited  to 
this  work.  In  more  persistent  cases  it  may  be  found  desirable  to  use 
a  milking  tube  in  order  to  prevent  the  repeated  opening  of  the  pus- 
tules during  the  operation  of  milking.  Washing  the  sores  twice 
daily  with  a  weak  solution  of  zinc  chlorid  (2^  per  cent  solution)  has 
been  found  to  assist  in  checking  the  inflammation  and  to  cleanse  and 
heal  the  parts  by  its  germicidal  action.  When  the  udder  is  hard, 
swollen,  and  painful,  support  it  by  a  bandage  and  foment  frequently 
with  hot  water.  If  calves  are  allowed  to  suckle  the  cows  the  pustules 
become  confluent,  and  the  ulcerations  may  extend  up  into  the  teat, 
causing  garget  and  ruining  the  whole  quarter  of  the  udder. 

As  young  cows  are  most  susceptible  to  variola,  the  milker  must 
exercise  constant  patience  with  these  affected  animals  so  long  as  their 
teats  or  udders  are  sore  and  tender,  else  the  patient  may  contract 
vicious  habits  while  resisting  painful  handling.  The  flow  of  milk  is 
usually  lessened  as  soon  as  the  fever  becomes  established,  but  is  again 
normal  with  the  return  of  perfect  health. 

The  practice  of  thorough  cleanliness  in  handling  or  milking 
affected  cattle  may,  in  many  instances,  prevent  the  dissemination 
of  the  trouble  among  the  healthy  portion  of  the  herd,  but  even  the 
greatest  care  may  prove  insufficient  to  check  the  spread  until  it  has 
attacked  each  animal  of  the  herd  in  turn. 

ACTINOMYCOSIS  (LUMPY  JAW). 

[Pis.    XXXIX-XLI.] 

Actinomycosis,  also  known  as  lumpy  jaw,  big  jaw,  wooden  tongue, 
etc.,  is  a  chronic  infectious  disease  characterized  by  the  formation 
of  peculiar  tumors  in  various  regions  of  the  body,  more  particularly 
the  head,  and  is  due  to  the  specific  action  of  a  certain  fungus  (acti- 
nomyces).  This  fungus  is  an  organism  which  occurs  in  the  tissues 
in  the  form  of  rosettes,  and  it  has  therefore  been  termed  the  "ray 
fungus."  The  disease  is  not  directly  transmitted  from  one  animal 
to  another,  but  it  seems  apparent  that  the  fungus  is  conveyed  into 
the  tissues  by  various  feedstuffs  through  slight  wounds  of  the 
mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth,  decayed  teeth,  or  during  the  shed- 
ding of  milk  teeth.  The  ray  fungus  is  found  in  nature  vegetated  on 
grasses,  on  the  awns  of  barley,  the  spears  of  oats,  and  on  other 
grains.  Quantities  of  the  fungi  have  been  found  between  the  vege- 
table fibers  of  barley  which  had  penetrated  the  gums  of  cattle  and  on 
the  awns  of  grain  embedded  in  the  tongues  of  cows. 

Although  actinomycotic  tumors  on  cattle  had  been  the  object  of 
study  for  many  years,  it  was  not  until  1877  that  the  constant  presence 
of  actinomyces  was  pointed  out  by  Bollinger,  of  Munich,  and  since 


ACTINOMYCOSIS.  439 

that  time  considered  the  cause.  This  fungus  was  observed  in  these 
tumors  as  early  as  1860  by  Rivolta,  and  by  others  subsequently,  with- 
out havdng  been  suspected  as  causing  them. 

Since  Bollinger's  publication  much  work  has  been  done,  many 
observations  made,  and  many  hitherto  obscure  disease  processes 
brought  into  relation  with  this  fungus.  Furthermore,  a  similar  dis- 
ease in  man  was  first  definitely  shown  to  be  associated  with  the  same 
fungus  in  1878  by  Israel,  and  in  the  following  year  Ponfick  pointed 
out  that  the  disease  described  by  Bollinger  in  animals  and  that 
found  by  Israel  in  man  were  due  to  the  same  cause ;  that  is,  that  the 
fungi  described  by  these  observers  were  one  and  the  same. 

The  tumors  and  abscesses  wherever  they  may  be  are  all  found  to 
be  the  same  in  origin  by  the  presence  of  the  actinomyces  fungus. 
When  they  are  incised,  a  very  close  scrutiny  with  the  naked  eye,  or, 
at  most,  a  hand  lens,  will  reveal  the  presence  of  minute  grains  which 
vary  from  a  pale-yellow  to  a  sulphur-yellow  color.  They  may  be 
very  abundant  or  so  few  as  to  be  overlooked.  They  are  embedded 
in  the  soft  tissue  composing  the  tumor  or  in  the  pus  of  the  abscess. 
With  a  needle  they  are  easily  lifted  out  from  the  tissue,  and  then  they 
appear  as  roundish  masses  about  one-half  millimeter  (5^  inch)  in 
diameter.  To  anyone  familiar  with  the  use  of  a  microscope  the 
recognition  of  these  grains  or  particles  without  any  previous  prepa- 
ration is  a  comparatively  easy  task. 

When  examined  in  the  fresh  condition  under  a  microscope  magni- 
fying up  to  250  diameters  the  general  structure  is  made  out  without 
much  difficulty.  These  grains  consist  of  collections  of  minute,  round- 
ish masses.  Their  outer  surface  is  made  up  of  club-shaped  bodies  all 
radiating  from  the  center  of  the  mass  (see  PI.  XXXIX,  fig.  2),  some- 
what like  a  rosette.  If  the  fungus  is  crushed,  the  interior  is  found 
made  up  of  bundles  of  very  fine  filaments,  which  are  probably  con- 
tinuous into  the  club-shaped  bodies.  The  addition  of  a  dilute  solution 
of  caustic  soda  or  potash  greatly  aids  the  examination,  as  it  re- 
moves the  layer  of  cells  adhering  to  the  fungus,  which  obscures  the 
structure.  Now  and  then  these  grains  are  found  to  be  in  a  calcified 
condition.  The  exterior  is  incrusted  in  lime  salts,  which  are  dis- 
solved by  adding  some  weak  dilute  acid,  like  acetic  acid.  Only  by 
this  procedure  can  the  fungus  be  definitely  recognized  when  in  a 
mummified  condition. 

These  are  the  bodies  whose  presence  causes  sufficient  irritation  in 
the  tissues  into  which  they  find  their  way  to  set  up  inflammatory 
growths.  These  growths  increase  as  the  fungus  continues  to  multiply 
until  they  reach  enormous  dimensions,  if  the  affected  animal  is  per- 
mitted to  live  long  enough.  The  true  nature  of  this  parasite  is  not 
yet  definitely  settled,  although  many  excellent  observers  have  occu- 
pied themselves  with  it.    According  to  earlier  observers,  it  is  a  true 


440  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

fungus.  Later  ones  are  inclined  to  place  it  among  the  higher  bac- 
teria. Further  investigations  will  be  necessary  to  clear  up  this 
subject. 

Whatever  the  situation  of  the  disease  caused  by  actinomyces  may 
be,  its  nature  is  fundamentally  the  same  and  peculiar  to  the  fungus. 
The  pathological  details  which  make  this  statement  clear  can  not  be 
entered  upon  in  this  place,  nor  would  they  be  of  any  practical  value 
to  the  farmer.    We  will  simply  dwell  upon  a  few  obvious  characters. 

The  consistency  of  the  tumor  varies  in  different  situations  accord- 
ing to  the  quantity  of  fibrous  or  connective  tissue  present.  When 
very  little  of  this  is  present  the  tumor  is  of  a  very  soft  consistency. 
As  the  quantity  of  connective  tissue  is  increased  the  tumor  is  firmer 
and  of  a  more  honeycombed  appearance.  The  individual  actino- 
myces colonies  are  lodged  in  the  spaces  or  interstices  formed  by  the 
mesh  work  of  the  connective  tissue.  There  they  are  surrounded  by 
a  mantle  of  cellular  elements  which  fill  up  the  spaces.  By  scraping 
the  cut  surface  of  such  a  tumor  these  cell  masses  inclosing  the  fungi 
come  away,  and  the  latter  may  be  seen  as  pale-yellow  or  sulphur- 
yellow  specks,  as  described  above. 

Location  of  the  disease. — In  cattle  the  disease  process  may  be 
located  both  externally,  where  it  is  readily  detected,  and  in  internal 
organs.  Its  preferred  seat  is  on  the  bones  of  the  lower  and  upper 
jaw,  in  the  parotid  salivary  gland  in  the  angle  of  the  jaw,  and  in  the 
region  of  the  throat.  It  may  also  appear  under  the  skin  in  different 
parts  of  the  body.  Internally  it  may  attack  the  tongue  and  appear 
in  the  form  of  a  tumor  in  the  mouth,  pharynx,  or  larynx.  It  may 
cause  extensive  disease  of  the  lungs,  more  rarely  of  the  digestive  tract. 

It  appears,  furthermore,  that  in  certain  districts  or  countries  the 
disease  seems  by  preference  to  attack  certain  parts.  Thus  in  Eng- 
land actinomycosis  of  the  tongue  is  most  prevalent.  In  Denmark 
the  soft  parts  of  the  head  are  most  prone  to  disease,  while  in  Russia 
the  lips  are  the  usual  seat.  In  certain  parts  of  Germany  actinomy- 
cotic tumors  of  the  throat  (pharynx),  in  other  diseases  of  the  jaw- 
bones, are  most  frequently  encountered. 

A  description  of  actinomycosis  of  the  jaw  (lumpy  jaw)  and  of  the 
tongue  has  already  been  given  in  a  previous  chapter,  and  hence  they 
will  be  dealt  with  here  only  very  briefly.  When  the  disease  attacks 
the  soft  parts  of  the  head  a  rather  firm  swelling  appears,  in  which 
are  formed  one  or  more  smaller  projecting  tumors,  varying  from 
the  size  of  a  nut  to  that  of  an  egg.  These  push  their  way  outward 
and  finally  break  through  the  skin  as  small,  reddish,  funguslike 
bodies  covered  with  thin  sloughs.  Or  the  original  swelling,  in  place 
of  enlarging  in  the  manner  described,  may  become  transformed  into 
an  abscess  which  finally  bursts  to  discharge  creamy  pus.    The  abscess 


ACTINOMYCOSIS.  441 

cavity,  however,  does  not  disappear,  but  is  soon  filled  with  fungus- 
like  growths,  which  force  their  way  outward  through  the  opening. 

When  the  tumors  are  situated  within  the  cavity  of  the  pharynx 
they  have  broken  through  from  some  gland,  perhaps  beneath  the 
mucous  membrane,  where  the  disease  first  appeared,  and  hang  or 
project  into  the  cavity  of  the  pharynx,  either  as  pendulous  masses 
with  slender  stems  or  as  tumors  with  broad  bases.  Their  position 
may  be  such  as  to  interfere  with  swallowing  and  with  breathing. 
In  either  case  serious  symptoms  will  soon  appear. 

The  invasion  of  the  bones  of  the  jaws  by  actinomycosis  must  be 
regarded  as  one  of  the  most  serious  forms  of  the  disease.  (Pis. 
XXXIX,  XL.)  It  may  start  in  the  marrow  of  the  bone  and  by  a 
slow  extension  gradually  undermine  the  entire  thickness  of  the  bone 
itself.  The  growth  may  continue  outward,  and  after  working  its 
way  through  muscle  and  skin  finally  break  through  and  appear  ex- 
ternally as  stinking  fungoid  growths.  The  growth  may  at  the  same 
time  work  its  way  inward  and  appear  in  the  mouth.  The  disease 
may  also  begin  in  the  periosteum,  or  covering  of  the  bone,  and  de- 
stroy the  bone  from  without  inward. 

Actinomycosis  of  the  lungs  is  occasionally  observed,  and  it  is  not 
improbable  that  at  times  it  has  been  mistaken  for  tuberculosis.  The 
actinomyces  grains  are,  however,  easily  observed  if  the  diseased  tissue 
is  carefully  examined.  The  changes  in  the  lungs  as  they  appear  to 
the  naked  eye  vary  considerably  from  case  to  case.  Thus  in  one 
animal  the  lungs  were  affected  as  in  ordinary  bronchopneumonia  as 
to  the  location,  extent,  and  appearance  of  the  disease  process.  The 
affected  lobes  had  a  dark-red  flesh  appearance,  with  yellowish  areas 
sprinkled  in  here  and  there.  (See  PL  XLI,  figs.  1,  2.)  These  latter 
areas  were  the  seat  of  multiplication  of  the  actinomyces  fungus.  In 
another  case,  of  which  only  a  small  portion  of  the  lungs  was  sent 
to  the  laboratory,  they  were  completely  transformed  into  a  uni- 
formly grayish  mass,  very  soft  and  pulpy  to  the  touch,  and  appear- 
ing like  very  soft  and  moist  dough.  (PI.  XLI,  fig.  3.)  The  ac- 
tinomyces grains  were  exceedingly  abundant  in  this  tissue,  and 
appeared  when  the  tissue  was  incised  as  minute  sulphur-yellow  grains, 
densely  sprinkled  through  the  tissue,  which  readily  came  away  and 
adhered  to  the  knife  blade.  In  still  another  case  a  portion  of  the 
lung  tissue  was  converted  into  large,  soft  masses  from  1  to  3  inches 
in  diameter,  each  partly  inclosed  in  very  dense  connective  tissue. 
These  soft,  grayish-yellow  masses  likewise  resembled  moist  dough  in 
their  consistency,  and  the  actinomyces  grains,  though  neither  very 
distinct  nor  at  all  abundant,  were  easily  fished  out  and  indentified  as 
such.  A  portion  of  this  growth,  which  was  as  large  as  a  child's  head, 
was  converted  into  an  abscess  filled  with  creamy  semiliquid  pus. 


442  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

This  case  differed  from  the  preceding  in  that  all  appearance  of 
lung  tissue  had  disappeared  from  the  diseased  mass.  Only  on  the 
exterior  the  lung  tissue  could  be  recognized,  although  even  there  it 
had  been  largely  converted  into  very  dense,  whitish  connective  tissue 
inclosing  the  fungoid  growth.  In  the  other  case  the  external  form 
of  the  lung  and  the  shape  and  outline  of  the  lobules  were  preserved, 
but  the  lung  tissue  itself  was  not  recognizable  as  such.  In  the  case 
first  mentioned  the  changes  were  still  less  marked,  and  actinomycosis 
would  not  have  been  suspected  by  a  simple  inspection.  These  few 
illustrations  suffice  to  show  that  antinomycosis  of  the  lungs  may 
appear  under  quite  different  forms,  and  that  the  nature  of  the  disease 
can  be  accurately  determined  only  by  finding  the  fungus  itself. 
Rarely  actinomycosis  attacks  the  body  externally  in  places  other 
than  the  head  and  neck.  Crookshank  describes  the  case  of  a  bull 
in  which  the  flank  was  attacked  and  subsequently  the  scrotum  became 
diseased.  A  large  portion  of  the  skin  of  the  flank  was  destroyed 
and  covered  with  a  leathery  crust.  When  this  was  pulled  away  the 
pus  beneath  it  showed  the  actinomyces  grains  to  the  naked  eye. 

Actinomycosis  may  also  involve  the  udder,  the  spermatic  cord  of 
castrated  animals,  the  vagina,  and,  when  it  becomes  generalized,  the 
brain,  liver,  spleen,  and  muscular  tissue. 

Actinomycosis  may  in  some  cases  be  confounded  with  tuberculosis. 
The  diagnosis  does  not  offer  any  difficulties,  since  the  presence  of  the 
actinomyces  fungus  at  once  removes  any  existing  doubts.  As  has 
already  been  intimated,  these  grains,  simulating  sulphur  balls,  are 
visible  to  the  naked  eye,  and  their  nature  is  readily  determined  with 
the  aid  of  a  microscope. 

The  course  of  the  disease  is  quite  slow.  As  the  tumors  grow  they 
may  interfere  with  the  natural  functions  of  the  body.  According  to 
their  situation,  mastication,  rumination,  or  breathing  may  be  inter- 
fered with,  and  in  this  Avay  the  animal  may  become  emaciated.  Acti- 
nomycosis of  the  jawbones  leads  to  destruction  of  the  teeth  and 
impedes  the  movements  necessary  to  chewing  the  feed.  Similarly, 
when  the  disease  attacks  the  soft  parts  of  the  head  obstructions  may 
arise  in  the  mouth  by  an  inward  growth  of  the  tumor.  If  tumors 
exist  in  the  pharynx  they  may  partially  obstruct  the  movements 
necessary  to  breathing,  or  close  the  air  passages  and  cause  partial 
suffocation.  Actinomycosis  of  the  tongue,  in  interfering  with  the 
many  and  varied  movements  of  this  important  organ,  is  also  a  serious 
matter.  There  is  no  reason  to  suppose  that  the  localized  disease 
interferes  with  the  general  health  in  any  other  way  than  indirectly 
until  internal  organs,  such  as  the  lungs,  become  involved. 

A  very  small  proportion  of  the  cases  may  recover  spontaneously, 
the  tumors  being  encysted  or  undergoing  calcification.     In  most  cases 


ACTINOMYCOSIS.  443 

the  disease  yields  readily  to  proper  treatment,  and  about  75  per  cent 
of  the  affected  animals  may  be  cured. 

Prevention. — The  question  as  to  how  and  where  animals  take  this 
disease  is  one  concerning  which  we  are  still  in  the  stage  of  conjecture, 
because  so  far  we  possess  very  little  information  concerning  the  life 
history  of  the  actinomyces  itself.  The  quite  unanimous  view  of  all 
observers  is  that  animals  become  infected  from  the  feed.  The  fungus 
is  lodged  upon  the  plants  and  in  some  way  enters  the  tissues  of  the 
head,  the  lungs,  and  the  digestive  tract,  where  it  sets  up  its  peculiar 
activity.  It  is  likewise  generally  believed  that  the  fungus  is,  as  it 
were,  inoculated  into  the  affected  part.  This  inoculation  is  per- 
formed by  the  sharp  and  pointed  parts  of  plants  which  penetrate 
the  mucous  membrane  and  carry  the  fungus  with  them.  The  disease 
is  therefore  inoculable  rather  than  contagious.  The  mere  presence 
of  the  diseased  animal  will  not  give  rise  to  disease  in  healthy  animals 
unless  the  actinomyces  grains  pass  directly  from  the  diseased  into 
some  wound  or  abrasion  of  the  healthy  or  else  drop  upon  the  feed 
which  is  consumed  by  the  healthy.  Not  only  are  these  views  deduci- 
ble  from  clinical  observation,  but  they  have  been  proved  by  the  posi- 
tive inoculation  of  calves  and  smaller  animals  with  actinomyces. 
The  danger  therefore  of  the  presence  of  actinomyces  for  healthy 
animals  is  a  limited  one.  Nevertheless  an  animal  affected  with  this 
disease  should  not  be  allowed  to  go  at  large  or  run  with  other  ani- 
mals. If  the  fungus  is  being  scattered  by  discharging  gi'owths  we 
certainly  can  not  state  at  this  stage  of  our  knowledge  that  other 
animals  may  not  be  infected  by  such  distribution,  and  we  must 
assume,  until  more  positive  information  is  at  hand,  that  this  actually 
occurs. 

It  is,  howeA^er,  the  opinion  of  the  majority  of  authorities  that  when 
actinomycosis  appears  among  a  large  number  of  animals  they  all 
contract  it  in  the  same  way  from  the  feed.  Much  speculation  has 
therefore  arisen  whether  any  particular  plant  or  group  of  plants  is 
the  source  of  the  infection  and  whether  any  special  condition  of  the 
soil  favors  it.  Very  little  positive  information  is  at  hand  on  these 
questions.  It  would  be  very  desirable  for  those  who  live  in  localities 
where  this  disease  is  prevalent  to  make  statistical  and  other  observa- 
tions on  the  occurrence  of  the  disease  with  reference  to  the  season  of 
the  year,  the  kind  of  feed,  the  nature  of  the  soil  (whether  swampy  or 
dry,  recently  reclaimed,  or  cultivated  for  a  longtime)  upon  which  the 
animals  are  pastured  or  upon  which  the  feed  is  grown. 

It  is  highly  probable  that  such  investigations  will  lead  to  an  under- 
standing of  the  source  of  the  fungus  and  the  means  for  checking 
the  spread  of  the  disease  itself.  Veterinarian  Jensen,  of  Denmark, 
made  some  observations  upon  an  extensive  outbreak  of  actinomycosis 


444  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

a  number  of  years  ago  which  led  him  to  infer  that  the  animals  were 
inoculated  by  eating  barley  straw  harvested  from  pieces  of  ground 
just  reclaimed  from  the  sea.  While  the  animals  remained  unaffected 
so  long  as  they  pastured  on  this  ground  or  ate  the  hay  obtained  from 
it,  they  became  diseased  after  eating  the  straw  of  cereals  from  the 
same  territory.  Others  have  found  that  cattle  grazing  upon  low 
pastures  along  the  banks  of  streams  and  subject  to  inundations  are 
more  prone  to  the  disease.  It  has  also  been  observed  that  feed 
gathered  from  such  grounds,  even  after  prolonged  drying,  may  give 
rise  to  the  disease.  Actinomycosis  is  not  infrequent  in  cattle  in  the 
southwest  and  is  generally  supposed  to  be  the  result  of  eating  the 
prickly  fruit  of  the  cactus  plant,  causing  wounds  of  the  mucous 
membrane  and  subsequent  infection  with  the  parasite.  Much  addi- 
tional information  of  a  similar  kind  must  be  forthcoming  before  the 
source  and  manner  of  infection  in  this  disease  and  its  dependence 
upon  external  conditions  will  be  known.  It  is  not  at  all  improbable 
that  they  may  vary  considerably  from  place  to  place. 

Treatment. — Until  recently  this  has  been  almost  entirely  surgical. 
When  the  tumors  are  external  and  attached  to  soft  parts  only,  an 
early  removal  may  lead  to  recovery.  This,  of  course,  can  be  under- 
taken only  by  a  trained  veterinarian,  especially  as  the  various  parts 
of  the  head  and  neck  contain  important  vessels,  nerves,  and  ducts 
which  should  be  injured  as  little  as  possible  in  any  operation.  Unless 
the  tumor  is  completely  removed  it  will  reappear.  Disease  of  the 
jawbones  is  at  best  a  very  serious  matter  and  treatment  is  liable  to 
be  of  no  avail. 

In  March,  1892,  an  important  contribution  to  our  knoweldge  of 
this  subject  was  made  by  Nocard,  of  the  Alfort  Veterinary  School, 
in  a  communication  to  the  French  Central  Society  of  Veterinary 
Medicine.  He  showed  clearly  that  the  actinomycosis  of  the  tongue, 
a  disease  which  appears  to  be  quite  common  in  Germany,  and  is  there 
known  as  "  wooden  tongue,"  could  be  quickly  and  permanently  cured 
by  the  administration  of  iodid  of  potassium.  Nocard  calls  attention 
to  the  success  of  Thomassen,  of  Utrecht,  w^io  recommended  this  treat- 
ment so  long  ago  as  1885,  and  who  has  since  treated  more  than  80 
cases,  all  of  which  have  been  cured.  A  French  veterinarian,  God- 
bille,  has  used  the  same  remedy  in  a  number  of  cases  of  actinomy- 
cosis in  the  tongue,  all  of  which  have  been  cured.  Nocard  also  gives 
details  of  a  case  which  was  cured  by  himself. 

All  the  cases  referred  to  were  of  actinomycosis  of  the  tongue,  and 
no  one  appears  to  have  attempted  the  cure  of  actinomycosis  of  the 
jaw  until  it  was  undertaken  by  Norgaard,  of  the  Bureau  of  Animal 
Industry.  In  April,  1892,  he  selected  a  young  steer  in  fair  condition 
which  had  a  tumor  on  the  ja  vv  measuring  15^  inches  in  circumference 
and  from  which  a  discharge  had  already  been  established.     This 


ACTINOMYCOSIS.  445 

animal  was  treated  with  ioclid  of  potassium,  and  the  result  was  a 
complete  cure. 

The  iodid  of  potassium  is  given  in  doses  of  1-|  and  2|  drams  once 
a  day,  dissolved  in  water,  and  administered  as  a  drench.  The  dose 
should  vary  somewhat  with  the  size  of  the  animal  and  with  the 
effects  that  are  produced.  If  the  dose  is  sufficiently  large  signs  of 
iodism  appear  in  the  course  of  a  week  or  10  days.  The  skin  becomes 
scurfy,  there  is  weeping  from  the  eyes,  catarrh  of  the  nose,  and  loss 
of  appetite.  When  these  symptoms  appear  the  medicine  may  be 
suspended  for  a  few  days  and  afterward  resumed  in  the  same  dose. 
The  cure  requires  from  three  to  six  weeks'  treatment.  Some  animals, 
generally  the  ones  which  show  no  signs  of  iodism,  do  not  improve 
under  treatment  with  iodid  of  potassium. 

If  there  is  no  sign  of  improvement  after  the  animals  have  been 
treated  four  or  five  weeks,  and  the  medicine  has  been  given  in  as 
large  doses  as  appear  desirable,  it  is  an  indication  that  the  particular 
animal  is  not  susceptible  to  the  curative  effects  of  the  drug,  and  the 
treatment  may  therefore  be  abandoned. 

It  is  not,  however,  advisable  to  administer  iodid  of  potassium  to 
milch  cows,  as  it  will  considerably  reduce  the  milk  secretion  or  stop 
it  altogether.  Furthermore,  a  great  part  of  the  drug  is  excreted 
through  the  milk,  making  the  milk  unfit  for  use.  It  should  not  be 
given  to  animals  in  advanced  pregnancy,  as  there  is  danger  of  pro- 
ducing abortion. 

The  best  results  are  obtained  by  pushing  the  drug  until  its  effect 
is  seen.  The  many  tests  to  which  this  treatment  has  been  subjected 
have  proved,  with  few  exceptions,  its  specific  curative  value.  In 
addition  to  this  the  tumor  should  be  painted  externally  with  either 
the  tincture  of  iodin  or  Lugol's  solution,  or  the  drug  should  be 
injected  subcutaneously  into  the  tumor. 

Godbille  has  given  as  much  as  4  drams  of  potassium  iodid  in  one 
day  to  a  steer,  decreasing  the  dose  one-fourth  dram  each  day  until 
the  dose  was  1^  drams,  which  was  maintained  until  the  tAvelfth  day 
of  treatment,  when  the  animal  appeared  to  be  entirely  cured. 

Nocard  gave  the  first  day  1^  drams  in  one  dose  to  a  cow ;  the  sec- 
ond and  succeeding  days  a  dose  of  1  dram  in  the  morning  and 
evening,  in  each  case  before  feeding.  This  treatment  was  continued 
for  10  days,  when  the  animal  was  cured. 

Actinomycosis  and  the  public  health. — The  interest  which  is  shown 
concerning  this  cattle  disease  is  largely  due  to  the  fact  that  the  same 
disease  attacks  human  beings.  Its  slow  progress,  its  tendency  to 
remain  restricted  to  certain  localities,  and  the  absence  of  any  directly 
contagious  properties  have  thus  far  not  aroused  any  anxiety  in  other 
countries  as  to  its  influence  on  the  cattle  industry,  not  even  to  the 
point  of  placing  it  among  the  infectious  diseases  of  which  statistics 


446  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

are  annually  published.  Its  possible  bearing  on  public  health  has, 
however,  given  the  disease  a  place  in  the  public  mind  which  it  hardly 
deserves. 

It  has  already  been  stated  that  the  actinomyces  fungus  found  in 
human  disease  is  considered  by  authorities  the  same  as  that  occurring 
in  bovine  affections.  It  is  therefore  of  interest  to  conclude  this 
article  with  a  brief  discussion  of  the  disease  in  man  and  its  relation 
to  actinomycosis  in  cattle. 

In  man  the  location  of  the  disease  process  corresponds  fairly  well 
to  that  in  cattle.  The  majority  of  cases  which  have  been  reported 
in  different  parts  of  the  world — and  they  are  now  rather  numerous — 
indicate  disease  of  the  face.  The  skin,  tongue,  or  the  jawbones  may 
become  affected,  and  by  a  very  slow  process  it  may  extend  downward 
upon  the  neck  and  even  into  the  cavity  of  the  chest.  In  many  cases 
the  teeth  have  been  found  in  a  state  of  more  or  less  advanced  decay 
and  ulceration.  In  a  few  cases  disease  of  the  lungs  was  observed 
Avithout  coexisting  disease  of  the  bones  or  soft  parts  of  the  head.  In 
such  cases  the  fungus  must  have  been  inhaled.  The  disease  of  the 
lungs  after  a  time  extends  upon  the  chest  wall,  where  it  may  corrode 
the  ribs  and  work  its  way  through  the  muscles  and  the  skin.  An 
abscess  is  thus  formed  discharging  pus  containing  actinomyces  grains. 
Disease  of  the  digestive  organs  caused  by  this  fungus  has  also  been 
cbserved  in  a  few  instances. 

Granting  the  identity  of  the  disease  in  man  and  cattle,  the  question 
has  been  raised  whether  cattle  are  responsible  for  its  occurrence  in 
man.  Any  transmission  of  the  infectious  agent  may  be  conceived  of 
as  taking  place  during  the  life  of  the  animal  and  from  the  meat  after 
slaughter.  That  human  beings  have  contracted  actinomycosis  by 
coming  in  contact  with  diseased  cattle  is  not  shown  by  the  cases  that 
have  been  reported,  for  the  occupations  of  most  of  the  patients  did 
not  bring  them  into  any  relation  whatever  with  cattle.  Wliile  the 
possibility  of  such  direct  transmission  is  not  denied,  nevertheless  it 
must  be  considered  as  extremely  rare.  Practically  the  same  position 
is  maintained  at  present  by  most  authorities  as  regards  the  trans- 
mission of  the  disease  to  man  by  eating  meat.  Israel,  who  has  studied 
this  question  carefully,  found  the  disease  in  Jews  who  never  ate  pork,^ 
and  who  likewise  were  protected  from  bovine  actinomycosis  by  the 
rigorous  meat  inspection  practiced  by  that  race.  Furthermore,  it 
must  be  borne  in  mind  that  actinomycosis  is  a  local  disease,  causing 
great  destruction  of  tissue  where  the  fungus  multiplies,  but  which 
very  rarely  becomes  generally  disseminated  over  the  body  from  the 
original  disease  focus.  The  fungus  is  found  only  in  places  where  the 
disease  process  is  manifest  to  the  eye  or  becomes  so  in  a  very  short 
time  after  the  lodgment  of  the  fungus.    Only  the  greatest  negligence 

1  Hogs  are  subject  to  actinomycosis. 


ANTHRAX.  447 

would  allow  the  actually  diseased  parts  to  be  sold  and  consumed. 
Finally,  this  parasite,  like  all  others,  would  be  destroyed  in  the  proc- 
ess of  cooking.  Most  authorities  thus  do  not  believe  that  actinomy- 
cosis in  man  is  directl}'^  traceable  to  the  disease  in  animals,  but  are  of 
the  opinion  that  both  man  and  animals  are  infected  from  a  third 
source,  which  has  already  been  discussed  above.  How  fai  these  views 
may  be  modified  by  further  and  more  telling  investigations  of  the 
parasite  fungus  itself  no  one  can  predict.  There  are  still  wide  gaps 
in  our  knowledge,  and  the  presentation  above  simply  summarizes  the 
prevailing  views,  from  which  there  are  dissenters,  of  course.  An 
attempt  to  give  the  views  of  both  sides  on  this  question  would  neces- 
sitate the  summarizing  and  impartial  discussion  of  all  the  experi- 
ments thus  far  made — a  task  entirely  beyond  the  scope  of  the  present 
work. 

Whether  an  animal  affected  with  actinomycosis  should  be  used  for 
human  food  after  all  diseased  organs  and  tissues  have  been  thoroughly 
removed  is  a  question  the  answer  to  which  depends  on.  a  variety  of 
circumstances.  Among  these  may  be  mentioned  the  thoroughness  of 
the  meat  inspection  itself,  the  extent  of  the  disease,  and  the  general 
condition  of  the  animal  affected. 

The  Federal  meat-inspection  regulations  require  that  carcasses  of 
animals  showing  generalized  actinomycosis  shall  be  condemned. 
If  carcasses  are  in  a  well-nourished  condition,  showing  uncompli- 
cated localized  lesions  of  actinomycosis,  they  may  be  passed  after 
the  infected  organs  or  parts  have  been  removed  and  condemned. 
When  the  disease  of  the  jaw  is  slight,  strictly  localized,  and  without 
pus  formation,  fistulous  tracts,  or  lymph-gland  involvement,  the 
tongue,  if  free  from  disease,  may  be  passed.  The  heads  affected 
with  actinomycosis  (lumpy  jaw),  including  the  tongue,  shall  be 
condemned,  except  that  when  the  lesions  in  the  jaw  are  strictly  local- 
ized and  slight  in  extent,  the  tongue  may  be  iDassed,  if  free  from 
disease. 

ANTHRAX. 

Anthrax  or  charbon  may  be  defined  as  an  infectious  disease  which 
is  caused  by  specific  bacteria,  known  as  anthrax  bacilli,  and  which  is 
more  or  less  restricted  by  conditions  of  soil  and  moisture  to  definite 
geographical  localities.  A^^iile  it  is  chiefly  limited  to  cattle  and  sheep, 
it  may  be  transmitted  to  goats,  horses,  cats,  and  certain  kinds  of 
game.  Smaller  animals,  such  as  mice,  rabbits,  and  guinea  pigs, 
speedily  succumb  to  inoculation.  Dogs  and  hogs  are  slightl}^  sus- 
ceptible, while  fowls  are  practically  immune.  The  variety  of  domes- 
ticated animals  which  it  may  attack  renders  it  one  of  the  most 
dreaded  scourges  of  animal  life.  It  may  even  attack  man.  Of  this 
more  will  be  stated  further  on. 


ACTINOMYCOSIS  (LUMPY  JAW). 

DESCRIPTION    OF   PLATES. 

Plate  XXXIX.     Actinomycosis.       (From    Joline's    Encyklopadie    d.    gesammt. 
Tliierheilkunde. ) 

Fig.  1.  Actinomycosis  of  the  jaw.  The  lower  jawbone  has  been  extensively 
eaten  away  by  the  disease. 

Fig.  2.  Actinomyces  fungus  from  a  tumor  of  the  jawbone  in  cattle,  magni- 
fied 550  times. 
Plate  XL.  Actinomycosis  of  the  jaw.  (Rediiced  one-half.  From  Johne's 
Encyklopadie  d.  gesammt.  Thierheilkunde.)  The  lower  jaw  is  sawn 
through  transversely,  i.  e.,  from  right  to  left,  and  shows  the  disease 
within  the  jawbone  itself ;  a,  within  the  mouth,  showing  the  papillae  on 
the  mucous  membrane  of  the  cheek ;  b,  front  view  of  a  molar  tooth ; 
c,  the  skin  covering  the  lower  surface  of  the  jawbone ;  d,  the  jawbone 
hollowed  out  and  enlarged  by  the  formation  of  cavities  within  it,  which 
are  filled  with  the  soft  growth  of  the  actinomycotic  tumor.  The  section 
makes  it  appear  as  if  the  bone  were  broken  into  fragments  and  these 
forced  apart ;  e,  a  portion  of  the  tumor  which  has  broken  through  the 
bone  and  the  skin  and  appears  as  a  tumor  on  the  cheek.  The  little 
roundish  masses  represent  the  granulomata  (minute  tumors)  in  which 
the  fungus  vegetates. 
Plate  XLI.     Actinomycosis  of  the  lungs. 

Fig.  1.  Transverse  section  of  the  ventral  lobe  of  the  right  lung,  from  a  case 
studied  in  the  laboratory.  The  yellowish  dots  represent  the  places 
where  the  actinomyces  fungus  is  lodged.  The  larger  yellowish  patches 
are  produced  by  the  confluence  of  a  nimiber  of  isolated  centers.  The 
entire  lobe  is  of  a  darlc  flesh-red  color,  due  to  collapse  and  broncho- 
pneumonia. 

Fig.  2.  The  cut  surface  of  a  portion  of  the  principal  lobe  of  the  same  lung, 
showing  the  recent  invasion  of  antinomycosis  from  the  other  lobe :  a, 
large  air  tube ;  I),  artery ;  c,  a  pneumatic  lobule ;  d,  lobule  containing 
minute  yellowish  dots.    In  these  the  actinomyces  fungus  is  lodged. 

Fig.  3.  Cut  surface  of  a  small  portion  of  anotlier  lung,   showing  a   few 
lobules,  fl.     The  fungus  is  sprinlcled  tliroughout  the  lung  tissue  in  the 
form  of  yellowish  grains,  as  shown  in  the  illustration.     The  pleural 
covering  of  the  lung  tissue  is  shown  in  profile  above. 
448 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  XXXIX. 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  XL. 


Actinomycosis  of  the  Jaw, 


Diseases  of  Cattle— U.  S.  Dept.  of  Agr 


Plate  XLI. 


L.HOEN  &C0    BALTIMORE. 


ANTHRAX.  449 

Cause. — The  cause  of  anthrax  is  a  microscopic  organism  known  as 
the  anthrax  bacilhis,  (See  PI.  XXVIII,  fig.  7.)  In  form  it  is 
cylindrical  or  rodlike,  measuring  -swir  to  -jwo  inch  in  length  and 
^TUTJTT  iiich  in  diameter.  Like  all  bacteria,  these  rotllike  bodies 
have  the  power  of  indefinite  multiplication,  and  in  the  bodies  of 
infected  animals  they  produce  death  hj  rapidly  increasing  in  num- 
bers and  producing  substances  which  poison  the  body.  In  the  blood 
they  multiply  in  number  by  becoming  elongated  and  then  dividing 
into  two,  each  new  organism  continuing  the  same  process  indefinitely. 
Outside  the  body,  however,  they  multiply  in  a  different  way  when 
under  conditions  unfavorable  to  growth.  Oval  bodies,  which  are 
called  spores,  appear  within  the  rods,  and  remain  alive  and  capable 
of  germination  after  years  of  drying.  They  also  resist  heat  to  a 
remarkable  degree,  so  that  boiling  water  is  necessary  to  destroy  them. 
The  bacilli  themselves,  on  the  other  hand,  show  only  very  little  re- 
sistance to  heat  and  drying.  It  has  long  been  known  that  the  anthrax 
virus  thrives  best  under  certain  conditions  of  the  soil  and  on  terri- 
tories subject  to  floods  and  inundations.  The  particular  kinds  of 
soil  upon  which  the  disease  is  observed  are  black,  loose,  warm,  humous 
soils;  also  those  containing  lime,  marl,  and  clay,  finally  peaty,  swampy 
soils  resting  upon  strata  which  hold  the  water,  or,  in  other  words,  are 
impervious.  Hence  fields  containing  stagnant  pools  may  be  the  source 
of  infection.  The  infection  may  be  limited  to  certain  farms,  or  even 
to  restricted  areas  on  such  farms.  Even  in  the  Alps,  more  than  3,000 
feet  above  sea  level,  where  such  conditions  prevail  in  secluded  valleys, 
anthrax  persists  among  herds. 

Aside  from  these  limitations  to  specific  conditions  of  the  soil, 
anthrax  is  a  disease  of  world-wide  distribution.  It  exists  in  most 
countries  of  Euroj^e,  in  Asia,  Africa,  Australia,  and  in  our  own 
country  in  the  lower  Mississippi  Valley,  the  Gulf  States,  and  in  some 
of  the  Eastern  and  Western  States.  It  seems  to  be  gradually  spread- 
ing in  this  country  and  every  year  occurs  in  new  districts. 

Meteorological  conditions  also  have  an  important  share  in  deter- 
mining the  severity  of  the  disease.  On  those  tracts  subject  to  inun- 
dations in  spring  a  very  hot,  dry  summer  is  liable  to  cause  a  severe 
outbreak.  The  relation  which  the  bacillus  bears  to  these  conditions 
is  not  positively  known.  It  may  be  that  during  and  immediately 
after  inundations  or  in  stagnant  water  the  bacilli  find  nourishment 
enough  in  the  water  here  and  there  to  multiply  and  produce  an 
abundant  crop  of  spores,  which  are  subsequently  canned,  in  a  dry 
condition,  by  the  winds  during  the  period  of  drought  and  dissemi- 
nated over  the  vegetation.  Animals  feeding  upon  this  vegetation 
may  contract  the  disease  if  the  spores  germinate  in  the  body. 

Another  source  of  the  virus,  and  one  regarded  by  many  authorities 
as  perhaps  the  most  important,  is  the  body  of  an  animal  which  has 
33071°— 16 29 


450  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

died  of  anthrax.  It  will  be  remembered  that  in  such  bodies  the 
anthrax  bacilli  are  present  in  great  numbers,  and  wherever  blood 
or  other  body  fluids  are  exposed  to  the  air  on  the  surface  of  the  carcass 
there  the  formation  of  spores  will  go  on  with  great  rapidity  in  the 
warm  season  of  the  year.  It  will  thus  be  readily  understood  how  this 
disease  may  become  stationary  in  a  given  locality  and  appear  year 
after  year  and  even  grow  in  severity  if  the  carcasses  of  animals  which 
have  succumbed  to  it  are  not  properly  disposed  of.  These  carcasses 
should  be  buried  deeply,  so  that  spore  formation  may  be  prevented 
and  no  animal  have  access  to  them.  By  exercising  this  precaution 
the  disease  will  not  be  disseminated  by  flies  and  other  insect  pests. 

We  have  thus  two  agents  at  work  in  maintaining  the  disease  in  any 
locality — ^the  soil  and  meteorological  conditions,  and  the  carcasses  of 
animals  that  have  died  of  the  disease.  Besides  these  dangers,  which 
are  of  immediate  consequence  to  cattle  on  pastures,  the  virus  may  be 
carried  from  place  to  place  in  hides,  hair,  wool,  hoofs,  and  horns, 
and  it  may  be  stored  in  the  hay  or  other  fodder  from  the  infected 
fields  and  cause  an  outbreak  among  stabled  animals  feeding  upon  it 
in  winter.  In  this  manner  the  affection  has  been  introduced  into 
far-distant  localities. 

How  cattle  are  infected. — We  have  seen  above  that  the  spores  of 
the  anthrax  bacilli,  which  in  their  functions  correspond  to  the  seeds 
of  higher  plants  and  which  are  the  elements  that  longest  resist  the 
unfavorable  conditions  in  the  soil,  air,  and  water,  are  the  chief  agents 
of  infection.  They  may  be  taken  into  the  body  with  the  feed  and 
produce  disease  which  begins  in  the  intestinal  tract,  or  they  may 
come  in  contact  with  scratches,  bites,  or  other  wounds  of  the  skin, 
mouth,  and  tongue,  and  produce  in  these  situations  swellings  or 
carbuncles.  From  such  swellings  the  bacilli  penetrate  into  the  blood 
and  produce  a  general  disease. 

It  has  likewise  been  asserted  that  the  disease  may  be  transmitted  by 
various  kinds  of  insects  which  carry  the  bacilli  from  the  sick  and 
inoculate  the  healthy  as  they  pierce  the  skin.  When  infection  of  the 
blood  takes  place  from  the  intestines  the  carbuncles  may  be  absent. 
It  has  already  been  stated  that  since  anthrax  spores  live  for  sev- 
eral years,  the  disease  may  be  contracted  in  winter  from  feed  gathered 
on  permanently  infected  fields. 

The  disease  may  appear  sporadically,  i.  e.,  only  one  or  several 
animals  may  be  infected  while  the  rest  of  the  herd  remain  well,  or  it 
may  appear  as  an  epizootic  attacking  a  large  number  at  about  the 
same  time. 

Symptoms. — The  symptoms  in  cattle  vary  considerably,  according 
as  the  disease  begins  in  the  skin,  in  the  lungs,  or  in  the  intestines. 
They  depend  also  on  the  severity  of  the  attack.  Thus  we  may  have 
what  is  called  anthrax  peracutus  or  apoplectiform,  when  the  animal 


ANTHRAX.  451 

dies  very  suddenly  as  if  from  apoplexy.  Such  eases  usually  occur  in 
the  beginning  of  an  outbreak.  The  animal,  without  having  shown 
any  signs  of  disease,  suddenly  drops  in  the  pasture  and  dies  in 
convulsions,  or  one  apparently  well  at  night  is  found  dead  in  the 
morning. 

The  second  type  (anthrax  acutis),  without  any  external  swellings, 
is  the  one  most  commonly  observed  in  cattle.  The  disease  begins 
with  a  high  fever.  The  temperature  may  reach  106^^  to  107°  F.  The 
pulse  beats  from  80  to  100  a  minute.  Feeding  and  rumination  are 
v'-uspended.  Chills  and  muscular  tremors  may  appear  and  the  skin 
show  uneven  temperature.  The  ears  and  base  of  the  horns  are  cold, 
the  coat  staring.  The  animals  are  dull  and  stupid  and  manifest 
great  weakness. 

To  these  symptoms  others  are  added  in  the  course  of  the  disease. 
The  dullness  may  give  way  to  great  uneasiness,  champing  of  the 
jaws,  spasms  of  the  limbs,  kicking  and  pawing  the  ground.  The 
breathing  may  become  labored.  The  nostrils  then  dilate,  the  mouth 
is  open,  the  head  raised,  and  all  muscles  of  the  chest  are  strained 
during  breathing,  while  the  visible  mucous  membranes  (nose,  mouth, 
rectum,  and  vagina)  become  bluish.  If  the  disease  has  started  in 
the  bowels,  there  is  much  pain,  as  shown  by  the  moaning  of  the 
animal ;  the  discharges,  at  first  firm,  become  softer  and  covered  with 
serum,  mucus,  and  blood. 

As  the  disease  approaches  the  fatal  termination  the  weakness  of 
the  animal  increases.  It  leans  against  supports  or  lies  down.  Blood 
vessels  may  rupture  and  give  rise"  to  spots  of  blood  on  the  various 
mucous  membranes  and  bloody  discharges  from  nose,  mouth,  rectum, 
and  vagina.  The  urine  not  infrequently  contains  blood  (red  water), 
and  death  ensues  within  one  or  two  days. 

A  third  type  of  the  disease  (anthrax  subacutas),  which  is  rarely 
observed,  includes  those  cases  in  which  the  disease  is  more  prolonged. 
It  may  last  from  three  to  seven  days  and  terminate  fatally  or  end  in 
recovery.  In  this  type,  the  symptoms  are  practically  as  described  in 
the  acute  form,  only  less  marked. 

In  connection  w^th  these  types  of  intestinal  anthrax,  swellings  may 
appear  in  different  parts  of  the  body  under  the  skin,  or  the  disease 
may  start  from  such  a  swelling,  caused  by  the  inoculation  of  anthrax 
spores  in  one  of  the  several  different  ways  already  described.  If  the 
disease  begins  in  the  skin,  it  agrees  in  general  with  the  subacute  form 
in  prolonged  duration,  and  it  may  occasionally  terminate  in  recovery 
if  the  swellings  are  thoroughly  incised  and  treated. 

Lesions. — These  swellings  appear  as  edemas  and  carbuncles.  The 
former  are  doughy  tumors  of  a  more  or  less  flattish  form  passing 
gradually  into  the  surrounding  healthy  tissue.  As  a  rule,  they  are 
situated  beneath  the  skin  in  the  fatty  layer,  and  the  skin  itself  is  at 


452  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

first  of  healthy  appearance,  so  that  they  are  often  overlooked,  espe- 
cially when  covered  with  a  good  coat  of  hair.  AVhen  they  are  cut 
open  they  are  found  to  consist  of  a  peculiar,  jellylike  mass  of  a  yel- 
lowish color  and  more  or  less  stained  with  blood.  The  carbuncles  are 
firm,  hot,  tender  swellings,  which  later  become  cool  and  painless  and 
undergo  mortification.  The  edemas  and  carbuncles  may  also  appear 
in  the  mouth,  pharynx,  larynx,  in  the  tongue,  and  in  the  rectum. 

The  bodies  of  cattle  which  have  died  of  anthrax  soon  lose  their 
rigidity  and  become  bloated,  because  decomposition  sets  in  very 
rapidly.  From  the  mouth,  nose,  and  anus  blood-strained  fluid  flows 
in  small  quantities.  "WTien  such  carcasses  are  opened  and  examined 
it  is  found  that  nearly  all  organs  are  sprinkled  with  spots  of  blood 
or  extravasations  of  various  sizes.  The  spleen  is  enlarged  from  two 
to  five  times,  the  pulp  blackish  and  soft  and  occasionally  disinte- 
grated. The  blood  is  of  tarry  consistency,  not  firmly  coagulated,  and 
blackish  in  color.  In  the  abdomen,  the  thoracic  cavity,  and  in  the 
pericardium,  or  bag  surrounding  the  heart,  more  or  less  blood-stained 
fluid  is  present.  In  addition  to  these  characteristic  signs,  the  car- 
buncles and  swellings  under  the  skin,  already  described,  will  aid  in 
determining  the  true  nature  of  the  disease.  The  most  reliable  method 
of  diagnosis  is  the  examination  of  the  blood  and  tissues  for  anthrax 
bacilli,  which  requires  a  trained  bacteriologist.  The  cases  of  fatal 
anthrax  number  from  70  to  90  per  cent,  and  are  usually  more  numer- 
ous at  the  first  outbreak  of  the  disease. 

Differential  diagnosis. — The  diagnosis  from  blackleg  may  be  made 
by  noting  the  subcutaneous  swellings  which  appear  upon  the  patient. 
Those  of  blackleg  are  found  to  crackle  under  pressure  with  the  finger, 
owing  to  the  presence  of  gas  within  the  tissues,  while  the  tumors  of 
anthrax,  being  caused  by  the  pressure  of  serum,  are  entirely  free  from 
this  quality  and  have  a  somewhat  doughy  consistence.  The  tumors 
of  blackleg  are  usually  on  the  shoulder  or  thigh  and  are  not  found 
so  frequently  about  the  neck  and  side  of  the  body  as  are  the  swellings 
of  anthrax.  The  blood  of  animals  dead  of  blackleg  is  normal,  and 
the  spleen  does  not  appear  swollen  or  darkened,  as  in  those  affected 
with  anthrax.  The  chief  differences  between  anthrax  and  Texas 
fever  are  that  the  course  of  the  former  is  more  acute  and  the  blood  of 
the  animal  is  dark  and  of  a  tarlike  consistence,  while  in  the  latter 
it  is  thinner  than  normal.  The  presence  of  Texas-fever  ticks  on  the 
cattle  would  also  lead  one  to  suspect  that  disease  in  regions  where - 
cattle  are  not  immune  from  it. 

TreatTnenf. — In  cases  which  originate  from  external  wounds,  the 
swellings  should  be  opened  freely  by  long  incisions  with  a  sharp  knife 
and  washed  several  times  daily  with  carbolic-acid  solution  (1  ounce  to 
a  quart  of  water).  Care  should  be  taken  to  disinfect  thoroughly  any 
fiuid  discharge  that  may  follow  the  incision.      When  suppuration 


ANTHRAX.  453 

has  set  in  the  treatment  recommended  in  the  chapter  on  wounds 
should  be  carried  out. 

In  the  treatment  of  animals  showing  symptoms  of  anthrax,  the 
serum  recommended  under  the  next  heading  of  "  Prevention  "  should 
be  administered  in  large  doses.  Animals  showing  only  a  high  tem- 
perature with  no  other  symptoms  of  the  disease  should  be  given 
from  30  to  50  cubic  centimeters  of  the  serum,  but  if  the  gravity  of 
the  disease  is  pronounced  100  cubic  centimeters  should  be  adminis- 
tered. In  most  instances  a  drop  in  temperature  may  be  observed  and 
a  diminishing  of  the  severity  of  the  symptoms.  At  times,  however, 
a  relapse  occurs  about  the  second  or  third  day  following  the  serum 
injection,  when  it  becomes  necessary  to  administer  another  dose  of 
serum.  It  has  been  proved  that  animals  affected  with  anthrax  may 
recover  after  injections  of  potent  serum. 

Prevention. — In  this  disease  prevention  is  the  most  important 
subject  demanding  consideration.  The  various  means  to  be  sug- 
gested may  be  brought  under  two  heads:  (1)  The  surroundings  of 
the  animal,  and  (2)  preventive  inoculation. 

(1)  Surroundings.^ — Wliat  has  already  been  stated  of  those  con- 
ditions of  the  pastures  which  are  favorable  to  anthrax,  after  a  little 
thought,  will  suggest  to  most  minds  some  of  the  preventive  measures 
which  may  be  of  service  in  reducing  losses  in  anthrax  localities.  All 
that  conduces  to  a  better  state  of  the  soil  should  be  attempted.  The 
State  or  Nation,  by  appropriate  engineering,  should  do  its  share  in 
preventing  frequent  inundations.  If  pools  of  stagnant  water  exist 
in  the  pastures,  or  if  any  particular  portions  are  known  by  experience 
to  give  rise  to  anthrax,  they  should  be  fenced  off.  Efforts  should 
likewise  be  made  toward  the  proper  draining,  of  swamp  lands  fre- 
quented by  cattle.  Sometimes  it  has  been  found  desirable  to  abandon 
for  a  season  any  infected  or  dangerous  pastures.  This  remedy 
can  not  be  carried  out  by  most  farmers,  and  it  is  liable  to  ex- 
tend the  infected  territory.  In  some  instances  withdrawal  of  cattle 
from  pastures  entirely  and  feeding  them  in  stables  is  said  to  have 
reduced  the  losses. 

It  is  of  the  utmost  importance  that  carcasses  of  animals  which  have 
died  of  anthrax  be  properly  disposed  of,  as  every  portion  of  such 
animal  contains  the  bacilli,  ready  to  form  spores  when  exposed  to  the 
air.  Perhaps  the  simplest  means  is  to  bury  the  carcasses  deep, 
where  they  can  not  be  exposed  by  dogs  or  wild  animals.  It  may  be 
necessary  to  bury  them  on  the  pasture,  but  it  is  better  to  remove 
them  to  places  not  frequented  by  susceptible  animals  and  to  a  point 
where  drainage  from  the  graves  can  not  infect  any  water  supply. 

If  they  are  moved  some  distance  it  miist  be  borne  in  mind  that  the 
ground  and  all  objects  which  have  come  in  contact  with  the  carcass 
should  be  disinfected.     This  is  best  accomplished  with  chlorid  of 


454  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

lime.  For  washing  utensils,  etc.,  a  5  per  cent  solution  may  be  pre- 
pared by  adding  3  ounces  to  2  quarts  of  water.  This  should  be 
prepared  fresh  from  the  powder,  and  it  is  but  little  trouble  to  have  a 
small  tin  measure  of  known  capacity  to  dip  out  the  powder,  to  be 
added  to  the  water  whenever  necessary.  The  carcass  and  the  ground 
should  be  sprinkled  with  powdered  chlorid,  or,  if  this  is  not  at  hand, 
an  abundance  of  ordinary,  unslaked  lime  should  be  used  in  its  place. 

The  removal  of  carcasses  to  rendering  establishments  is  always 
fraught  with  danger,  unless  those  who  handle  them  are  thoroughly 
aware  of  the  danger  of  scattering  the  virus  by  careless  handling  in 
wagons  that  are  not  tight.  As  a  rule,  the  persons  in  charge  of  such 
transfer  have  no  training  for  this  important  work,  so  that  deep  burial 
is  to  be  preferred.  Burning  large  carcasses  is  not  always  feasible ; 
it  is,  however,  the  most  certain  means  of  destroying  infectious  mate- 
rial of  any  kind,  and  should  be  resorted  to  whenever  practicable  and 
economical.  All  carcasses,  whether  buried,  rendered,  or  burned, 
should  be  disposed  of  unopened.  When  stables  have  become  in- 
fected they  should  be  thoroughly  cleaned  out,  and  the  solution  of 
chlorid  of  lime  freely  applied  on  floors  and  woodwork.  The  feed 
should  be  carefully  protected  from  contamination  with  the  manure 
or  other  discharges  from  the  sick. 

(2)  Preventive  inoculation. — One  of  the  most  important  discov- 
eries in  connection  with  the  disease  was  made  by  Louis  Pasteur 
in  1881,  and  consisted  in  the  new  principle  of  producing  immunity 
by  the  inoculation  of  weakened  cultures  of  the  bacillus  causing  the 
disease.  This  method  has  been  quite  extensively  adopted  in  France, 
and  to  some  extent  in  other  European  countries,  and  in  the  United 
States.  The  fluid  used  for  inoculation  consists  of  bouillon  in  which 
modified  anthrax  bacilli  have  multiplied  and  are  present  in  large 
numbers.  The  bacilli  have  been  modified  by  heat  so  that  to  a  certain 
degree  they  have  lost  their  original  virulence.  Two  vaccines  are 
prepared.  The  first  or  weaker,  for  the  first  inoculation,  is  obtained 
by  subjecting  the  bacilli  to  the  attenuating  effects  of  heat  for  a  longer 
period  of  time  than  in  the  case  of  the  second,  or  stronger  vaccine,  for 
a  second  inoculation  some  12  days  later. 

There  are  several  difficulties  inherent  in  the  practical  application 
of  Pasteur's  vaccine.  Among  them  may  be  mentioned  the  variable 
degree  of  attenuation  of  different  tubes  of  the  vaccine  and  the  vary- 
ing susceptibility  of  the  animals  to  be  inoculated.  The  use  of  this 
vaccine  is  increasing,  nevertheless,  and  has  reduced  the  mortality  in 
the  affected  districts  from  an  average  of  10  per  cent  in  the  case  of- 
sheep,  to  less  than  1  per  cent,  and  from  5  per  cent  with  cattle,  to  less 
than  one-half  of  1  per  cent. 

It  is  very  imj^ortant  to  call  attention  to  the  possibility  of  dis- 
tributing anthrax  by  this  method  of  protective  inoculation,  as  the 


ANTHRAX.  455 

bacilli  themselves  are  present  in  the  culture  liquid.  It  is  true  that 
they  have  been  modified  and  weakened  by  the  process  adopted  by 
Pasteur,  but  it  is  not  impossible  for  such  modified  virus  to  regain 
its  original  virulence  after  it  has  been  scattered  broadcast  by  the 
inoculation  of  large  herds.  It  is  obviously  unsafe  to  have  such 
vaccine  injected  by  a  layman ;  instead,  it  should  be  handled  only  by 
a  competent  veterinarian. 

There  are  other  disadvantages  in  this  method  of  vaccination,  and 
they  all  must  be  given  due  consideration.  The  unstable  keeping 
quality  of  the  Pasteur  vaccine  is  a  very  important  factor  to  be  consid- 
ered. Experience  in  this  line  has  proved  that  Pasteur  vaccine  may 
deteriorate  within  a  very  short  time  after  its  preparation,  and  in  re- 
peated instances  it  has  proved  inert  within  three  months  of  its 
preparation.  When  exposed  to  warm  temperature  and  light,  it 
deteriorates  verj?^  rapidly ;  and  when  it  is  considered  that  the  products 
of  manufacturers  may  be  stored  under  unfavorable  conditions  in 
branch  houses  and  on  the  shelves  of  rural  drug  stores,  the  loss  of 
potency  can  be  readily  explained.  These  deficiencies  have  been  rec- 
ognized by  many  investigators,  and  because  of  the  superior  keeping 
qualities  particular  attention  has  been  directed  toward  the  prepara- 
tion of  a  spore  vaccine  by  Zenkowsky  of  Russia,  Detre  of  Hungarj^, 
and  Nitta  of  Japan.  For  the  purpose  of  producing  a  spore  vaccine 
it  is  desirable  to  use  a  peptone-free  agar  medium,  and  after  inocula- 
tion with  an  attenuated  culture  of  the  anthrax  bacillus,  it  is  allowed 
to  grow  at  a  temperature  of  37°  C.  for  4  to  7  days.  By  this  time  an 
abundance  of  spores  will  have  formed.  The  growth  is  then  collected 
in  sterile  flasks  and  heated  to  a  temperature  of  60°  C.  for  one-half 
hour  to  destroy  the  vegetative  forms  of  the  organism.  If  it  is  desired 
to  use  for  vaccination  one  million  spores,  it  is  advisable  to  dilute  the 
vaccine  to  a  quantity  of  which  1  cubic  centimeter  would  contain  this 
number.  Of  such  a  vaccine  1  cubic  centimeter  would  constitute  the 
dose  for  cattle  and  horses.  In  all  forms  of  vaccination  against  an- 
thrax in  sheep  the  greatest  care  must  be  exercised,  as  these  animals 
are  very  susceptible  to  the  disease,  and  at  times  vaccines  which  have 
no  ill  effects  on  cattle  will  prove  fatal  to  sheep.  Therefore  the  dose 
of  the  spore  vaccine  for  sheep  should  not  be  more  than  one-fourth 
of  that  given  to  cattle. 

Sclavo,  Sobernheim,  and  others  have  established  that  injections 
of  increasing  quantities  of  virulent  cultures  into  immune  animals 
produced  a  serum  which  has  great  protective  value  against  anthrax. 
Such  protective  serum  may  be  produced  in  the  various  susceptible 
animals. 

For  immunization  purposes  it  is  advisable  to  use  the  simultaneous 
method;  that  is,  both  the  spore  vaccine  and  the  anthrax  serum  should 
be  injected.     It  is  desirable  to  divide  the  herd  to  be  treated  into 


456  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

groups  of  ten  or  twelve  and  inject,  first,  each  animal  of  the  group 
with  the  serum,  following  this  with  the  injection  of  the  spore  vaccine. 
The  serum  should  be  injected  on  one  side,  either  ::  the  neck  or  back 
of  the  shoulder,  and  the  spore  vaccine  on  the  Other  side,  injections 
being  made  subcutaneously.  In  herds  in  which  the  disease  has 
already  made  its  appearance  it  is  necessary  to  take  the  temperatures 
of  all  the  animals  and  to  subject  to  the  simultaneous  vaccination  only 
those  that  show  no  rise  in  temperature.  All  others  should  be  given 
the  serum-alone  treatment  in  doses  varying  in  accordance  with  the 
severity  of  the  symptoms  manifested  by  the  individual  animals.  If 
the  examination  reveals  a  considerable  number  of  infections,  it  is 
advisable  to  use  the  serum  alone  for  all  the  animals,  and  in  three  or 
four  weeks  to  revaccinate  by  the  simultaneous  method.  The  dosage 
should  depend  on  the  potency  of  the  serum,  serum  of  a  high  potency 
naturally  being  most  desirable.  Thus  serum  in  10  cubic  centimeter 
doses  for  large  animals,  and  3  to  5  cubic  centimeter  doses  for  smaller 
ones,  has  been  found  to  be  effective  in  producing  a  temporary 
immunit3^ 

As  anthrax  is  entirely  different  from  blackleg,  vaccine  for  the  latter 
does  not  act  as  a  preventive  against  the  former. 

ANTHRAX   IN   MAN    (MALIGNANT   PUSTULE,   OR  CARBUNCLE). 

Anthrax  may  be  transmitted  to  man  in  handling  the  carcasses  and 
hides  of  animals  which  have  succumbed  to  the  disease.  The  infec- 
tion usually  takes  place  through  some  abrasion  or  slight  wound  of 
the  skin  into  which  the  anthrax  spores,  or  bacilli,  find  their  way. 
The  point  of  inoculation  appears  at  first  as  a  dark  point  or  patch, 
compared  by  some  writers  to  the  sting  of  a  flea.  After  a  few  hours 
this  is  changed  into  a  reddened  pimple,  which  bears  on  its  summit, 
usually  around  a  hair,  a  yellowish  blister,  or  vesicle,  which  later  on 
becomes  red  or  bluish  in  color.  The  burning  sensation  in  this  stage 
is  very  great.  Later  this  pimple  enlarges,  its  center  becomes  dry, 
gangrenous,  and  is  surrounded  by  an  elevated,  discolored  swelling. 
The  center  becomes  drier  and  more  leatherlike,  and  sinks  in  as  the 
Avhole  increases  in  size.  The  skiii  around  this  swelling  or  carbuncle 
is  stained  yellow  or  bluish,  and  is  not  infrequently  swollen  and 
doughy  to  the  touch.  The  carbuncle  itself  rarely  grows  larger  than 
a  pea  or  a  small  nut,  and  is  but  slightly  painful. 

Anthrax  swellings  or  edemas,  already  described  as  occurring  in 
cattle,  may  also  be  found  in  man,  and  they  are  at  times  so  extensive 
as  to  produce  distortion  in  the  appearance  of  the  part  of  the  body 
on  which  they  are  found.  The  color  of  the  skin  over  these  swellings 
varies  according  to  the  situation  and  thickness  of  the  skin  and  the 
stage  of  the  disease,  and  may  be  white,  rod.  bluish,  or  blackish. 


BLACKLEG.  457 

As  sooner  or  later  these  carbuncles  and  swellings  may  lead  to  an 
infection  of  the  entire  body,  and  thus  be  fatal,  surgical  assistance 
should  at  once  be  called  if  there  is  well-grounded  suspicion  that  any 
swellings  resembling  those  described  above  have  been  caused  by  in- 
oculation with  anthrax  virus.  Inasmuch  as  physicians  differ  as  to 
medicinal  treatment  of  such  accidents  in  man,  it  would  be  out  of 
place  to  make  any  suggestions  in  this  connection. 

Extensive  data  are  available,  however,  on  the  effectiveness  of  an- 
thrax serum  for  the  treatment  of  the  disease  in  man.  It  is  recom- 
mended that  from  30  to  40  cubic  centimeters  of  serum  be  injected  in 
three  or  four  different  places.  Should  no  improvement  follow  in 
24  hours  additional  injections  of  20  to  30  cubic  centimeters  should  be 
administered. 

In  most  instances  the  results  are  favorable,  and  this  treatment  is 
acknowledged  to  be  superior  to  any  other  mode  of  treatment  known 
for  the  disease. 

To  show  that  the  transmission  of  anthrax  to  man  is  not  so  very 
uncommon,  we  take  the  following  figures  from  the  1890  report  of 
the  German  GoA^ernment:  The  attention  of  the  authorities  was 
brought  to  111  cases,  of  which  11  terminated  fatally.  The  largest 
number  of  inoculations  Avere  caused  by  the  slaughtering,  opening, 
and  skinning  of  animals  affected  with  anthrax;  hence,  the  butchers 
suffered  most  extensively.  Of  the  111  thus  affected,  36  belonged  to 
this  craft. 

In  addition  to  anthrax  of  the  skin  (known  as  malignant  pustule), 
human  beings  are  subject,  though  very  rarely,  to  the  disease  of  the 
lungs  and  the  digestive  organs.  In  the  former  case  the  spores  are 
inhaled  by  workmen  in  establishments  in  which  wool,  hides,  and  rags 
are  worked  over,  and  it  is  therefore  known  as  woolsorter's  disease. 
In  the  latter  case  the  disease  is  contracted  by  eating  the  flesh  of  dis- 
eased animals  which  has  not  been  thoroughly  cooked.  These  forms 
of  the  disease  are  more  fatal  than  those  in  which  the  disease  starts 
from  the  skin. 

BLACKLEG.' 

[PI.  XLIL] 

Blackleg,  black  quarter,  quarter  ill.  symptomatic  anthrax,  charbon 
symptomatique  of  the  French,  Eauschbrand  of  the  Germans,  is  a 
rapidly  fatal,  infectious  disease  of  young  cattle,  associated  with  ex- 
ternal swellings  Avhich  emit  a  crackling  soimd  when  handled.  This 
disease  was  formerly  regarded  identical  with  anthrax,  but  investiga- 
tions by  various  scientists  in  recent  times  have  definitely  proved  the 
entire  dissimilarity  of  the  two  affections,  both  from  a  clinical  and  a 

1  For  detailod  information  regarding  blackleg  and  the  free  distribution  of  blackleg 
vaccine,  write  to  the  Chief  of  the  Bureau  of  Animal  Industry,  Washington,  D.  C. 


458  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

causal  standpoint.  The  disease  is  produced  by  a  specific  bacillus, 
readily  distinguishable  from  that  causing  anthrax.  (PI.  XXVIII, 
fig.  4.)  Cattle  between  6  months  and  2  years  of  age  are  the  most 
susceptible.  Sucking  calves  under  6  months  are  rarely  attacked,  nor 
are  they  so  susceptible  to  inoculation  as  older  animals.  Cattle  more 
than  2  years  of  age  may  become  affected,  but  such  cases  are  infre- 
quent. Sheep  and  goats  may  also  contract  the  disease,  but  man, 
horses,  hogs,  dogs,  cats,  and  fowls  appear  to  be  immune. 

Like  anthrax,  blackleg  is  more  or  less  restricted  to  definite  local- 
ities. There  are  certain  pastures  upon  which  the  disease  regularly 
appears  in  the  summer  and  fall  of  the  year.  As  to  any  peculiarities 
of  the  soil  nothing  is  definitely  known.  Some  authors  are  inclined 
to  regard  moist,  undrained,  and  swampy  pastures  favorable  to  this 
disease,  but  these  theories  will  hardly  hold,  as  it  is  found  in  all  kinds 
of  soil,  in  all  altitudes,  at  all  seasons  of  the  year,  and  under  various 
climatic  conditions.  It  occurs  in  this  country  from  the  Atlantic  to 
the  Pacific  and  from  Mexico  to  Canada,  but  it  is  more  prevalent  in 
the  Western  and  Southwestern  States.  In  Europe  it  exists  in  France, 
various  parts  of  Germany,  in  Belgium,  Norway,  Denmark,  Italy, 
and  in  the  Alps  of  Switzerland.  In  Africa  it  occurs  in  Algeria 
and  to  some  extent  in  Natal  and  bordering  countries.  In  South 
America  it  prevails  quite  extensively  throughout  Argentina.  Cattle- 
in  Cuba  and  Australia  also  suffer. 

Cause, — The  cause  of  the  disease  is  a  bacillus  resembling  in  some 
minor  respects  the  anthrax  bacillus  and  differing  but  little  from  it 
in  size.  It  also  possesses  the  power  of  forming  within  itself  a  spore. 
In  Plate  XXVIII,  figure  4,  this  is  represented  as  an  uncolored  spot 
located  in  one  end  of  the  rod,  which  is  enlarged  so  that  the  rod 
itself  appears  more  or  less  club-shaped.  What  has  already  been 
stated  concerning  the  .significance  of  the  spore  of  the  anthrax  bacillus 
applies  equally  well  to  these  bodies.  They  resist  destructive  agents 
for  a  considerable  time,  and  may  still  produce  disease  when  inocu- 
lated after  several  years  of  drying.  This  fact  may  account  for  the 
occasional  aj^pearance  of  blackleg  in  stables.  In  order  to  meet  the 
requirements  for  the  development  of  the  spores,  which  takes  place 
only  in  the  absence  of  the  atmosphere,  it  is  necessary  that  the  wound 
be  very  small  and  deep  enough  to  penetrate  the  subcutaneous  tissue. 

Several  observers  have  found  this  organism  in  the  mud  of  swamps. 
By  placing  a  little  of  the  mud  under  the  skin,  the  disease  has  been 
produced. 

Since  the  disease  may  be  produced  by  placing  under  the  slrin 
material  containing  the  specific  bacilli  and  spores,  it  has  been 
assumed  that  cattle  contract  the  disease  through  wounds,  principally 
of  the  skin,  or  very  rarely  of  the  mouth,  tongue,  and  throat.  Slight 
wounds  into  which  the  virus  may  find  access  may  be  caused  by 


BLACKLEG.  459 

barbed  wire,  stubbles,  thorns,  briers,  grass  burs,  and  sharp  or  pointed 
parts  of  feed. 

Symjytorm  and  lesions. — The  symptoms  of  blackleg  may  be  either 
of  a  general  or  of  a  local  nature,  though  more  frequently  of  the 
latter.  The  general  symptoms  are  very  much  like  those  belonging 
to  other  acute  infectious  or  bacterial  diseases.  They  begin,  from  one 
to  three  days  after  the  infection  has  taken  place,  with  loss  of  appe- 
tite and  of  rumination,  with  dullness  and  debility,  and  a  high  fever. 
The  temperature  may  rise  to  107°  F.  To  these  may  be  added  lame- 
ness or  stiffness  of  one  or  more  limbs,  due  to  the  tumor  or  swelling 
quite  invariably  accompanying  the  disease.  After  a  period  of  dis- 
ease lasting  from  one  to  three  days  the  affected  animal  almost  always 
succumbs.  Death  is  preceded  by  increasing  weakness,  difficult 
breathing,  and  occasional  attacks  of  violent  convulsions. 

The  most  important  characteristic  of  this  disease  is  the  appear- 
ance of  a  tumor  or  swelling  under  the  skin  a  few  hours  after  the 
setting  in  of  the  constitutional  symptoms  described  above.  In  some 
cases  it  may  appear  first.  This  tumor  may  be  on  the  thighs  (hence 
"blackleg,"  "black  quarter"),  the  neck,  the  shoulder,  the  breast, 
the  flanks,  or  the  rump;  never  below  the  carpal  (or  knee)  and  the 
hock  joint.  It  more  rarely  appears  in  the  throat  and  at  the  base 
of  the  tongue.  The  tumor,  at  first  small  and  painful,  spreads  very 
rapidly  both  in  depth  and  extent.  When  it  is  stroked  or  handled 
a  peculiar  crackling  sound  is  heard  under  the  skin. ;  this  is  due  to 
a  collection  of  gas  formed  by  the  bacilli  as  they  multiply.  At  this 
stage  the  skin  becomes  dry,  parchment-like,  and  cool  to  the  touch 
in  the  center  of  the  tumor.  If  the  swelling  is  cut  into,  a  frothy, 
dark-red,  rather  disagreeably  smelling  fluid  is  discharged.  The  ani- 
mal manifests  little  or  no  pain  during  the  operation. 

As  it  is  frequently  desirable  to  know  whether  the  disease  is  anthrax 
or  blackleg,  a  few  of  the  most  obvious  post-mortem  changes  may 
here  be  cited.  The  characteristic  tumor  with  its  crackling  sound 
when  stroked  has  already  been  described.  If  after  the  death  of  the 
animal  it  is  more  thoroughly  examined,  it  will  be  noted  that  the 
tissues  under  the  skin  are  infiltrated  with  blood  and  yellowish,  jelly- 
like material  and  gas  bubbles.  The  muscular  tissue  beneath  the 
swelling  may  be  brownish  or  black,  shading  into  dark  red.  (PI. 
XLII.)  It  is  soft,  easily  torn  and  broken  up.  The  muscle  tissue 
is  distended  with  numerous  smaller  or  larger  gas-filled  cavities, 
often  to  such  extent  as  to  produce  a  resemblance  to  lung  tissue. 
Upon  incision  it  does  not  collapse  perceptibly,  as  the  gas  cavities  are 
not  connected  with  one  another. 

In  the  abdomen  and  the  thorax  bloodstained  fluid  is  not  infre- 
quently found,  together  with  bloodstaining  of  the  lining  membrane 
of  these  cavities.     Blood  spots   (or  ecchymoses)   are  also  found  on 


460  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

the  heart  and  hings.  The  liver  is  congested,  but  the  spleen  is  always 
normal. 

Differential  diagnosis. — Among  the  features  of  this  disease  which 
distinguish  it  from  anthrax  may  be  mentioned  the  unchanged  spleen 
and  the  ready  clotting  of  the  blood.  It  will  be  remembered  that  in 
anthrax  the  spleen  (milt)  is  very  much  enlarged,  the  blood  tarry, 
coagulating  feebly.  The  anthrax  carbuncles  and  swellings  differ 
from  the  blackleg  swellings  in  not  containing  gas,  in  being  hard  and 
solid,  and  in  causing  death  less  rapidly. 

It  is  difficult  to  distinguish  between  the  swellings  of  blackleg  and 
maligant  edema,  as  the}'^  resemble  each  other  very  closely  and  both 
are  distended  with  gas.  Malignant  edema,  however,  generally  starts 
from  a  wound  of  considerable  size ;  it  usually  follows  surgical  opera- 
tions, and  does  not  result  from  the  small  abrasions  and  pricks  to 
which  animals  are  subjected  in  pastures.  Inoculation  experiments 
on  guinea  pigs,  rabbits,  and  chickens  will  also  disclose  the  differences 
between  the  three  diseases  above,  as  all  these  species  are  killed  by 
the  germ  of  malignant  edema,  only  the  first  two  species  by  the 
anthrax  bacillus,  while  the  guniea  pigs  alone  will  succumb  to  the 
Ijlackleg  infection.  Hemorrhagic  septicemia  may  be  differentiated 
from  blackleg  by  its  affecting  cattle  of  all  ages,  bj^  the  location  of  the 
swelling  usually  about  the  region  of  the  throat,  neck,  and  dewlap, 
by  the  soft,  doughy  character  of  the  swellings  without  the  presence 
of  gas  bubbles,  and  finally  by  the  characteristic  hemorrhages  widely 
distributed  throughout  the  body.  Other  means  of  diagnosis,  which 
have  reference  to  the  specific  bacilli,  to  the  inoculable  character  of 
the  virus  upon  small  animals,  and  which  are  of  decisive  and  final 
importance,  can  be  utilized  only  by  the  trained  bacteriologist  and 
veterinarian. 

Treatment. — In  this  disease  remedies  have  thus  far  proved  unavail- 
ing. Some  writers  recommend  the  use  of  certain  drugs,  which  seem 
to  have  been  beneficial  in  a  few  cases,  but  a  thorough  trial  has 
shown  them  to  be  valueless.  Others  advise  that  the  swelling  be 
opened  by  deep  and  long  incisions  and  a  strong  disinfectant,  such 
as  a  5  per  cent  solution  of  carbolic  acid,  applied  to  the  exposed  parts, 
but  this  procedure  can  not  be  too  strongly  condenmed.  As  nearly 
all  those  attacked  die,  in  spite  of  every  kind  of  treatment,  and  in 
view  of  the  fact  that  when  these  tumors  are  opened  the  germs  of  the 
disease  are  scattered  over  the  stables  or  pastures,  thus  becoming  a 
source  of  danger  to  other  cattle,  it  is  obvious  that  such  measures  do 
more  harm  than  good  and  should  be  put  aside  as  dangerous.  Bleed- 
ing, nerving,  roweling,  or  setoning  have  likewise  some  adherents, 
but  the  evidence  indicates  that  they  have  neither  curative  nor  pre- 
ventive value  and  therefore  should  be  discarded  for  the  method  of 


BLACKLEG.  461 

vaccination  which  has  been  thoroughly  tried  and  proved  to  be 
efficacious. 

Prevention. — The  various  means  suggested  under  "Anthrax "  to 
prevent  the  spread  or  i-ecurrence  of  this  disease  are  equally  applicable 
to  blackleg,  and  hence  do  not  need  to  be  repeated  here  in  full.  They 
consist  in  the  removal  of  the  animals  from  the  infected  pasture  to  a 
noninfected  field,  the  draining  of  the  swampy  ground,  the  burial  or 
burning  of  the  carcasses  to  prevent  the  dissemination  of  the  germs 
over  vast  areas  through  the  agency  of  dogs,  wolves,  buzzards,  or 
crows,  the  disinfection  of  the  stables  and  the  gi'ound  where  the  ani- 
mals lay  at  the  time  of  death,  and,  if  possible,  the  destruction  of  the 
germs  on  the  infected  pastures.  One  of  the  most  effective  methods 
for  freeing  an  infected  pasture  from  blackleg  is  to  allow  the  grass 
to  grow  high,  and  when  sufficiently  dry  to  burn  it  off.  One  burn- 
ing off  is  not  sufficient  to  redeem  an  infected  pasture,  but  the  process 
should  be  repeated  several  years  in  succession.  This  method,  how- 
ever, is  in  many  instances  impracticable,  as  few  cattle  owners  can 
afford  to  do  it,  and  the  only  means  left  for  the  protection  of  the 
animals  is  vaccination. 

I nirminisation  hy  vaccination. — Three  French  veterinarians^  Arlo- 
ing,  Cornevin,  and  Thomas,  were  the  first  to  discover  that  cattle  may 
be  protected  against  blackleg  by  inoculation  with  virulent  material 
obtained  from  animals  which  have  died  of  this  disease.  Later  they 
devised  a  method  of  inoculation  with  the  attenuated  or  weakened 
blackleg  spores  which  produced  immunity  from  natural  or  artificial 
inoculation  of  \drulent  blackleg  germs.  Their  method  has  undergone 
various  modifications  both  in  regard  to  the  manufacture  of  the  vac- 
cine and  in  the  mode  of  its  application.  Kitt,  a  German  scientist, 
modified  the  method  so  that  but  one  inoculation  of  the  vaccine  was 
required  instead  of  two,  as  was  the  case  with  that  made  by  the  French 
investigators.  The  vaccine  prepared  and  distributed  by  the  Bureau 
of  Animal  Industry  combines  the  principle  of  Arloing,  Cornevin,  and 
Thomas,  and  the  modification  of  Kitt. 

By  vaccination  we  understand  the  injection  of  a  minute  amount  of 
attenuate — that  is,  artificially  weakened — blackleg  virus  into  the 
system.  This  virus  is  obtained  from  animals  which  have  died  from 
blackleg,  by  securing  the  affected  muscles,  cutting  them  into  strips, 
and  drying  them  in  the  air.  When  they  are  perfectly  dry  they 
are  pulverized  and  mixed  with  water  to  form  a  paste,  smeared  in  a 
thin  layer  on  flat  dishes,  placed  in  an  oven,  and  heated  for  six  hours 
at  a  temperature  close  to  that  of  boiling  water.  The  paste  is  then 
transformed  into  a  hard  crust,  which  is  pulverized  and  sifted  and 
.distributed  in  packages  containing  either  10  or  25  doses.  This  con- 
stitutes the  vaccine,  the  strength  of  which  is  thoroughly  tested  on 
experiment  animals  before  it  is  distributed  among  the  cattle  owners. 


462  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

This  vaccine,  which  is  in  the  form  of  a  brownish,  dry  powder,  is 
mixed  with  definite  quantities  of  sterile  water,  filtered,  and  by  means 
of  a  hypodermic  syringe  the  filtrate  injected  under  the  skin  in  front 
of  the  shoulder  of  the  animal.  The  inoculation  is  usually  followed  by 
insignificant  symptoms.  In  a  few  cases  there  is  a  slight  rise  of  tem- 
perature, and  by  close  observation  a  minute  swelling  may  be  noted  at 
the  point  of  inoculation.  The  immunity  conferred  in  this  way  m^y 
last  for  18  months,  but  animals  vaccinated  before  they  are  6  months 
old  and  those  in  badly  infected  districts  should  be  re  vaccinated  before 
the  following  blackleg  season. 

The  effect  of  the  vaccine  prepared  by  this  bureau  in  preventing 
outbreaks  of  the  disease  and  in  immediately  abating  outbreaks 
already  in  progress  has  been  highly  satisfactory,  and  it  is  not  to 
be  doubted  that  thousands  of  young  cattle  have  been  saved  to  the 
stock  owners  during  the  eighteen  and  a  half  years  in  which  the 
vaccine  has  been  distributed.  More  than  25,000,000  doses  have  been 
sent  out  during  this  period,  and  from  reports  received  it  is  safe  to 
conclude  that  more  than  20,000,000  have  actually  been  injected, 
whereby  the  percentage  of  loss  from  blackleg  has  been  reduced  from 
10  per  cent,  which  annually  occurred  before  using,  to  less  than  one- 
half  of  1  per  cent  per  annum.  With  these  figures  before  us  it  is 
plain  that  the  general  introduction  of  preventive  vaccination  must  be 
of  material  benefit  to  the  cattle  raisers  in  the  infected  districts. 
Moreover,  there  is  every  reason  to  believe  that  with  the  continued 
use  of  blackleg  vaccine  in  all  districts  where  the  disease  is  known  to 
occur,  and  an  earnest  effort  on  the  part  of  the  stock  owners  to  prevent 
the  reinfection  of  their  pastures  by  following  the  directions  given, 
blackleg  may  be  kept  in  check  and  gradually  eradicated. 

NECROTIC  STOMATITIS  (CALF  DIPHTHERIA). 

[PI.  XLIII.] 

Necrotic  stomatitis  is  an  acute,  specific,  highly  contagious  inflam- 
mation of  the  mouth  occurring  in  young  cattle,  and  characterized 
locally  by  the  formation  of  ulcers  and  caseo-necrotic  patches  and  by 
constitutional  symptoms,  chiefly  toxic. 

This  disease  has  also  been  termed  calf  diphtheria,  gangrenous 
stomatitis,  ulcerative  stomatitis,  malignant  stomatitis,  tubercular 
stomatitis,  and  diphtheritic  patches  of  the  oral  mucous  membrane. 

History. — During  the  last  few  years  farmers  and  cattlemen  in  this 
countiy,  especially  in  Colorado,  Texas,  and  South  Dakota,  have 
increasingly  noted  the  occurrence  of  enzootics  of  "  sore  mouth " 
among  the  young  animals  of  their  herds.  Instead  of  healing,  like  the 
usual  forms,  of  themselves,  these  cases,  if  untreated,  die.  Careful 
study  of  some  of  them  has  resulted  in  their  identification  with  cases 


NECROTIC    STOMATITIS.  463 

reported  in  1877  by  Dammann,  from  the  shore  of  the  Baltic ;  in  1878 
by  Blazekowic,  in  Slavonia;  in  1879  by  Yollers,  in  Holstein;  in 
1880  by  Lenglen,  in  France;  in  1881  by  Macgillivray,  in  England; 
and  in  1884  by  Loffler,  who  isolated  and  described  the  microorgan- 
ism which  produces  the  disease.  Bang  obtained  this  organism  from 
the  diphtheritic  lesions  of  calves  in  1890,  and  Kitt  likewise  recov- 
ered the  bacillus  from  similar  lesions  of  the  larynx  and  pharynx  of 
calves  and  pigs  in  1893. 

Etiology. — The  cause  of  necrotic  stomatitis,  as  demonstrated  by 
Loffler  and  since  confirmed  by  other  investigators,  is  Bacillus  necroph- 
orus,  often  spoken  of  as  the  bacillus  of  necrosis.  This  organism  varies 
in  form  from  a  coccoid  rod  to  long,  wavy  filaments,  which  may  reach 
a  length  of  100  [l;  the  width  varies  from  0.75  (jl  to  1  [i.  Hence  it  is 
described  as  polymorphic.  It  does  not  stain  by  Gram,  but  takes  the 
ordinary  anilin  dyes,  often  presenting,  especially  the  longer  forms,  a 
beaded  appearance.  A  characteristic  of  the  organism,  of  great  mo- 
ment when  we  come  to  treatment,  is  that  it  grows  only  in  the  absence 
of  oxygen,  from  which  fact  it  is  described  as  an  obligate  anaerobe. 

Very  few  organisms  exhibit  a  wider  range  of  pathogenesis.  Ac- 
cording to  clinical  observation  to  the  present  time.  Bacillus  nscroph- 
oi'us  is  pathogenic  for  cattle,  horses,  hogs,  sheep,  reindeer,  kanga- 
roos, antelope,  and  rabbits.  Experimentally  it  has  been  proved  patho- 
genic for  rabbits  and  white  mice.  The  dog,  cat,  guinea  pig,  pigeon, 
and  chicken  appear  to  be  absolutely  immune.  It  is  not  pathogenic 
for  man. 

The  importance  of  this  bacillus  is  far  beyond  even  its  relation  to 
necrotic  stomatitis.  Besides  this  disease  it  has  been  demonstrated  as 
the  causative  factor  in  foot  rot,  multiple  liver  abscesses,  disseminated 
liver  necrosis,  embolic  necrosis  of  the  lungs,  necrosis  of  the  heart,  in 
cattle;  gangrenous  pox  of  the  teats,  diphtheria  of  the  uterus  and 
vagina,  in  cows;  diphtheritic  inflammation  of  the  small  intestine  of 
calves.  Among  horses  it  is  the  agent  in  the  production  of  necrotic 
malanders,  quittor,  and  diphtheritic  inflammation  of  the  large  intes- 
tine. In  hogs  it  has  caused  necrotic  or  diphtheritic  processes  in  the 
mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth,  necrosis  of  the  anterior  wall  of  the 
nasal  septum,  and  pulmonary  and  intestinal  necrosis,  accompanying 
hog  cholera.  Abscesses  of  the  liver,  gangrenous  processes  of  the  lips 
and  nose,  and  gangrenous  affections  of  the  hoof  have  all  been  caused 
in  sheef)  by  this  organism. 

Pathology. — The  principal  lesions  in  necrotic  stomatitis  occur  in 
the  mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth  and  pharynx.  The  alterations 
may  extend  to  the  nasal  cavities,  the  larynx,  the  trachea,  the  lung,  the 
esophagus,  the  intestines,  and  to  the  hoof.  The  oral  surfaces  affected 
are,  in  the  order  of  frequency,  tongue,  cheeks,  hard  palate,  gmns, 


464  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

lips,  and  pharynx.  In  the  majority  of  cases  the  primary  infection 
seems  to  occur  in  the  tongue.     (PI.  XLIII.) 

Infection  takes  place  by  inoculation.  Some  abrasion  or  break  in 
the  continuity  of  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth  occurs.  Very 
likely  the  origin  may  be  connected  with  the  eruption  of  the  first  teeth 
after  birth,  or,  in  animals  somewhat  older,  the  entrance  of  a  sharp- 
pointed  particle  of  feed.  Gaining  an  entrance  at  this  point,  the 
bacilli  begin  to  multiply.  During  their  development  they  elaborate 
a  toxin,  or  poisonous  substance,  which  causes  the  death,  or  necrosis, 
of  the  epithelial,  or  superficial,  layer  of  the  mucous  membrane  and 
also  of  the  white  blood  cells  which  have  sallied  forth  through  the 
vessel  walls  to  the  defense  of  the  tissues  against  the  bacillary  attack. 
This  destruction  of  the  surface  epithelium  seems  to  be  the  essential 
factor  in  the  production  of  the  caseous  patch,  often  called  the  false 
membrane.  From  the  connective-tissue  framework  below  is  poured 
forth  an  inflammatory  exudate  highly  albuminous  or  rich  in  fibrin- 
forming  elements.  When  this  exudate  and  the  necrosed  cellular 
elements  come  in  contact,  the  latter  furnish  a  fibrin  ferment  which 
transforms  the  exduate  into  a  fibrinous  mass.  This  process  is  known 
as  coagulation  necrosis,  and  the  resulting  fibroid  mass,  containing  in 
its  meshes  the  necrosed  and  degenerated  epithelium  and  leucocytes, 
constitutes  the  diphtheritic  or  false  membrane.  Did  the  process  cease 
at  this  point  it  would  be  properly  called  a  diphtheritic  inflammation, 
but  it  does  not.  A  caseating  ferment  is  supplied  by  the  bacilli,  and 
this,  acting  upon  the  fibroid  patch,  transforms  it  into  a  dry,  finely 
granular,  yellowish  mass  of  tissue  detritus  resembling  cheese. 

Frequently  this  caseous  inflammation  results  in  the  formation  of 
one  or  more  ulcers  with  thickened,  slightly  reddened  borders,  sur- 
mounted by  several  layers  of  this  necrosed  tissue.  The  floor  of  the 
ulcer  is  formed  by  a  grayish-yellow,  corroded  surface,  under  which 
the  tissue  is  transformed  into  a  dry,  friable,  or  firm  cheesy  mass.  In 
the  tongue  this  may  progress  to  two  fingere'  thickness  into  the  mus- 
cular portion;  in  the  cheek  it  may  form  an  external  opening,  per- 
mitting fluids  to  escape  from  the  mouth;  upon  the  palate  it  fre- 
quently reaches  and  includes  the  bone  in  its  destructive  course ;  upon 
the  gums  it  has  produced  necrosis  of  the  tooth  sockets,  causing  loss 
of  the  teeth.  In  the  advanced  forms,  caseous  foci  may  be  seen  in  the 
lung  and  in  the  liver  and  necrotic  patches  observed  on  the  mucous 
membrane  of  the  gastrointestinal  tract. 

SymptoTTis. — Necrotic  stomatitis  is  bath  a  local  and  a  systemic 
affection.  Primarily  it  is  local.  The  local  lesion  is  the  caseo-necrotic 
patch  or  ulcer  developed  as  a  result  of  the  multiplication  of  the 
bacilli  at  the  point  of  inoculation.  The  general  affection  is  an  intoxi- 
cation, or  poisoning,  of  tlie  whole  system  produced  by  a  soluble  toxin 
elaborated  by  the  bacilli. 


Diseases  of  Cattle—  U.  S.  Dept.  of  Agr 


Plate  XLI 


tro   BALTIMORE. 


Section  of  Muscle  from  a  Blackleg  Swelling. 

a,  Gas  Bubbles. 

b.  Cavities  due  to  Gas  formation. 


Diseases  of  Cattle — U.  S.  Dept   of  Agr. 


Plate  XLIII. 


iMOENaCO   BALTIMORE. 


Necrotic  Stomatitis  (Calf  Diphtheria). 


XECKOTIC    STOMATITIS.  465 

The  stage  of  incubation  is  from  three  to  five  days.  The  first  sN'nip- 
toms  noted  are  a  disinclination  to  take  nourishment,  some  drooling 
from  the  mouth,  and  an  examination  of  the  mouth  will  show  on  some 
portion  of  its  nmcous  membrane  a  circumscribed  area  of  infiltration 
and  redness,  possibly  an  erosion.  The  latter  graduall}^  extends  in 
size  and  depth,  forming  a  sharply  circumscribed  area  of  necrotic 
inflammation.  It  may  measure  anywhere  from  the  size  of  a  5-cent 
piece  ta  that  of  a  silver  dollar  or  even  larger.  It  has  the  appearance 
of  a  corroded  surface,  under  which  the  mucous  membrane  or  muscular 
tissue  seems  transformed  into  a  dry,  friable,  or  firm  cheesy  mass.  It 
is  gra3dsh  yellow  in  color  and  is  bordered  b}^  a  zone  of  thickened 
tissue  slightly  reddened  and  somewhat  granulated.  The  necrotic 
tissue  is  ver}^  adherent  and  can  be  only  partially  peeled  off.  It  is 
homogeneous,  cheesy,  and  may  extend  two  fingers'  depth  into  the 
tissues  beneath.  The  general  sj'mptoms  are  languor,  weakness,  and 
slight  fever.  In  spite  of  plenty  of  good  feed  the  calf  is  seen  to  be 
failing.  It  stops  sucking,  or,  if  older,  altogether  refuses  to  eat.  The 
temperature  at  this  time  may  be  from  10J:°  to  107°  F.  The  slobber 
becomes  profuse,  swallowing  very  difficult,  opening  of  the  mouth 
quite  painful,  and  a  most  offensive  odor  is  exhaled.  The  tongue  is 
swollen  and  its  motion  greath?-  impaired.  Sometimes  the  mouth  is 
kept  open,  permitting  the  tumefied  tongue  to  protrude.  One  or  more 
of  the  above  symptoms  direct  the  attention  to  the  mouth  as  the  seat 
of  disease ;  or,  having  noticed  the  debility  and  disinclination  to  eat, 
an  examination  of  the  animal  may  show  a  lump  under  the  neck  or 
swelling  of  the  throat  or  head.  The  following  extract  from  a  letter 
is  characteristic: 

I  noticed  my  calves  beginning  to  fail  about  the  first  week  in  December,  but 
could  not  account  for  it,  as  tliej^  were  getting  plently  of  grain  and  hay.  My 
attention  was  first  attracted  liy  a  swelling  under  the  neck  of  one  of  the  calves. 
I  cast  the  animal  and  fo\nid  that  it  was  feed  that  had  collected  and  the  animal 
couldn't  swallow  it.  I  removed  it,  and  in  so  doing  noticed  a  large  ulcer  on  the 
tongue  and  a  very  offensive  odor.  This  was  the  first  knowledge  I  had  of 
anything  being  wrong  with  the  calves'  moiiths.  They  may  have  been  sick  for 
some  time  before  this. 

Out  of  a  herd  of  100  belonging  to  this  man,  TO  were  affected,  and 
the  letter  emphasizes  the  insidious  character  of  the  onset. 

The  general  affection  at  this  time  manifests  itself  by  dejectedness, 
extreme  weakness,  and  emaciation,  constant  h'ing  down,  with  stiffness 
and  marked  difficulty  in  standing. 

The  disease  frequenth'  extends  to  the  nasal  cavities,  producing  a 
thin,  yellowish,  or  greenish-yellow,  sticky  discharge  which  adheres 
closely  to  the  borders  of  the  nostrils.  Their  edges  also  show  caseous 
patches  similar  to  those  in  the  mouth.  "Sometimes  the  nasal  passage 
is  obstructed  by  great  masses  of  the  necrosed  exudate,  thus  causing 
extreme  difficulty  in  breathing.  When  the  caseous  process  involves 
33071°— IG 80 


466  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

the  larynx  and  trachea  there  result  cough,  "svheezing,  and  dyspnea, 
together  with  a  yellowish  mucopurulent  expectoration. 

When  life  is  prolonged  three  or  four  weeks,  caseous  foci  may  be 
established  in  the  lung,  giving  rise  to  all  the  signs  of  a  bronchopneu- 
monia. Man}'  of  these  cases  are  associated  with  a  fibrinous  pleurisy. 
The  invasion  of  the  gastrointestinal  tract  is  announced  by  diarrheal 
symptoms.  Tliis  disease  principally  attacks  sucklings  not  more  than 
6.  weeks  of  age,  but  calves  8  and  10  months  old  are  frequently  affected, 
and  seA'eral  cases  in  adult  cattle  have  been  reported  to  this  office. 

In  its  very  acute  form  many  of  the  cases  run  their  course  in  from 
five  to  eight  days.  In  these  the  local  lesions  are  not  strongly  marked, 
and  death  seems  due  to  acute  intoxication.  In  other  enzootics 
the  majority  of  the  affected  animals  live  from  three  to  five  weeks. 
These  are  cases  that  occasionally  present  the  pulmonary  and  intes- 
tinal sj'mptoms,  and  sometimes  develop  also  caseo-necrotic  lesions  in 
the  liver. 

Ordinarily  cases  show  no  tendency  to  spontaneous  cure.  Left  to 
themselves  they  die.  On  the  contrary,  if  taken  in  hand  early,  the 
disease  is  readily  amenable  to  treatment.  In  the  latter  event  the 
prospects  of  recoAery  are  excellent. 

Dlfferentml  diagnosis. — Xecrotic  stomatitis  may  be  differentiated 
from  foot-and-mouth  disease  by  the  fact  that  in  the  latter  there  is 
a  rapid  infection  of  the  entire  herd,  including  the  adult  cattle,  as 
well  as  the  infection  of  hogs  and  sheep.  The  characteristic  lesion 
of  foot-and-mouth  disease  is  the  appearance  of  vesicles  containing  a 
serous  fluid  upon  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth  and  ui)on  the 
udder,  teats,  and  feet  of  the  affected  animals.  In  necrotic  stomatitis 
vesicles  are  never  formed,  necrosis  occurring  from  the  beginning  and 
followed  by  the  formation  of  yellowish,  cheesy  patches,  principally 
found  in  the  mouth.  Mycotic  stomatitis  occurs  in  only  a  few  animals 
of  the  herd,  chiefly  the  adult  cattle,  and  the  lesions  produced  consist 
of  an  inflammation  of  the  mouth  and  lips  and  of  the  skin  between 
the  toes,  followed  in  a  few  days  by  small  irregular  ulcers  in  the 
mouth.  This  disease  appears  sporadically,  usually  in  the  early  fall 
after  a  dry  summer,  does  not  run  a  regular  course,  and  can  not  be 
inoculated. 

Prevention. — Prophylaxis  should  be  carried  out  along  three  lines: 

(1)  Separation  of  the  sick  from  the  healthy  animals. 

(2)  Close  scrutiny  and  thorough  disinfection  once  or  twice  daily 
for  fiA'e  days  of  the  mouths  and  nasal  passages  of  those  animals  that 
have  been  exposed. 

(3)  Complete  disinfection  of  all  stalls  and  sheds. 

The  disease  appears  to  break  out  in  winter  and  hold  over  to  spring. 
It  is  conceivable  that  exposure  to  cold  might  so  disturb  the  normal 
circulation  of  the  oral  tissues  as  to  make  the  mucous  membrane  an 


MALIGNANT    CATARRH.  467 

excellent  location  for  the  causative  factor  of  the  disease.  There  is 
another  possibility,  however,  which  bears  on  the  third  line  of  prophy- 
laxis. The  so-called  diphtheritic  inflammations  of  the  vagina  and 
uterus  in  cows  are  caused  by  the  same  organism  that  induces  necrotic 
stomatitis.  A  European  writer  has  recently  pointed  out  the  almost 
constant  relation  of  such  attacks  to  previous  occurrences  of  foul  foot 
or  foot  rot  in  the  same  or  other  cattle  on  the  place. 

In  all  likelihood,  in  such  cases,  the  stalls  and  sheds  are  the  harbor- 
ers  of  this  germ.  It  is  possible  that  many  of  these  outbreaks  have 
some  relation  to  preceding  cases  of  the  above-mentioned  diseases  and 
the  greater  use  in  winter  of  the  stalls  and  sheds,  thus  harboring  the 
Bacillus  necrophonis. 

Treatment. — The  treatment  consists  almost  solely  in  careful  and 
extensive  cleansing  and  disinfection  of  the  mouth  and  other  affected 
surfaces.  The  mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth  should  be  copiously 
irrigated  with  a  4  per  cent  solution  of  boracic  acid  in  warm  water  at 
least  twice  daily.  As  exposure  to  oxygen  kills  the  bacilli,  one  need 
have  no  fear  about  disturbing  or  tearing  off  the  caseous  patches  or 
necrotic  tissue  during  irrigation.  The  irrigation  of  the  sores  should 
then  be  followed  by  the  application  with  a  brush  or  rag  on  a  stick 
of  a  paste  made  with  1  part  of  salicylic  acid  and  10  parts  of  water, 
or  the  affected  areas  may  be  painted  with  Lugol's  solution  of  iodin 
(iodin,  1;  potassium  iodid,  5;  water,  200).  Frequent  injections  of 
1  per  cent  carbolic-acid  solution  into  the  mouth  make  an  excellent 
treatment.  The  internal  administration  of  2  grams  of  salicylic  acid 
and  3  grams  of  chlorate  of  potassium  three  times  a  dav  has  also 
proved  to  be  very  beneficial  when  accompanied  with  local  antiseptic 
treatment. 

MALIGNANT  CATARRH. 

Malignant  catarrh,  or  infectious  catarrhal  fever,  is  an  acute  infec- 
tious disease  of  cattle  preeminently  involving  the  respiratory  and 
digestive  tracts,  although  the  sinuses  of  the  head,  the  eyes,  and  the 
urinary  and  sexual  organs  are  very  frequently  affected.  It  is  rela- 
tively rare  in  this  country,  being  more  common  on  the  continent  of 
Europe.  Outbreaks  have  occurred,  however,  in  Minnesota,  New 
York,  and  Xew  Jersey.  So  far  the  causal  agent  of  the  disease  has 
never  been  isolated,  and  inoculation  experiments  with  the  view  of 
artificially  reproducing  the  disease  have  proved  negative  in  every 
case.  In  spite  of  the  foregoing  statements  the  consensus  of  opinion 
of  eminent  investigators  points  to  malignant  catarrh  as  being  of 
specific  origin;  that  is,  due  to  some  form  of  microorganism  the  con- 
tagious character  of  which  is  poorly  developed.  This  accounts  for 
the  slow  transmissibility  of  the  disease  from  one  animal  to  another. 
In  fact,  malignant  catarrh  is  a  type  of  that  class  of  affections  scien- 


4G8  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

tificalh^  knoAvn  as  miasmatic  diseases;  that  is,  they  remain  stationary 
in  stables  with  damp  floors,  low  ceilings,  poor  ventilation,  and  bad 
sanitary  conditions  in  general.  Snch  places  furnish  a  favorable  seat 
of  propagation  for  the  infective  material,  and  it  Avill  remain  active 
for  a  long  time,  causing  the  loss  of  a  few  animals  each  year.  One 
European  veterinarian  reports  an  instance  in  which  the  disease  re- 
mained for  25  years  on  the  same  farm,  attacking  in  all  225  animals, 
with  a  mortality  of  about  98  per  cent. 

The  disease  is  most  common  in  late  winter  and  early  spring,  at  all 
altitudes,  and  has  a  special  preference  for  young,  well-nourished 
cattle,  although  older  animals  are  not  immune.  The  time  between 
the  entrance  of  the  infective  principle  into  the  body  of  the  animal 
and  the  appearance  of  the  first  symptoms  is  relatively  very  long, 
averaging,  according  to  German  investigators,  from  20  to  30  da3's. 
Fortunately,  it  is  not  a  disease  Avhich  spreads  to  any  gi'eat  extent 
or  which  causes  severe  losses,  and  hence  legislative  enactments  do 
not  seem  to  be  necessary  for  its  restriction. 

Symptoms. — These  are  extremely  variable  according  to  the  point 
of  localization  of  the  lesions.  It  is  usually  ushered  in  with  a  chill, 
followed  by  a  marked  rise  of  temperature  (104°  to  107°  F.).  The 
head  droops,  the  skin  is  hot  and  dry,  and  the  coat  staring.  Quiv- 
ering of  the  muscles  in  various  parts  of  the  body  is  frequently 
observed.  Marked  dullness  of  the  animal,  passing,  according  to 
some  observers,  into  an  almost  stupefied  condition  later  on,  is  quite 
common.  The  secretion  of  milk  stops  in  the  beginning  of  the  dis- 
ease, and  loss  of  flesh,  invariably  associated  with  the  disease,  is 
extremely  marked  and  rapid.  The  lesions  of  the  eyes  may  best  be 
likened  to  moon  blindness   (periodic  ophthalmia)  in  horses. 

There  is  first  an  abundant  secretion  of  tears,  which  run  down  the 
face.  The  lids  are  swollen  and  inflamed,  and  indeed  this  may  be  so 
marked  as  to  cause  involuntary  eversion,  exposing  the  reddenetl 
conjunctiva  to  view.  Sunlight  is  painful,  as  is  shoAvn  by  the  fact 
that  the  animal  keeps  the  eyes  continuously  closed.  This  inflamma- 
tion may  extend  to  the  cornea,  causing  it  to  assume  a  slightly 
clouded  ai^pearance  in  mild  cases  or  a  chalky  whiteness  in  more 
severe  affection.  Cases  of  ulceration  of  the  cornea  followed  by 
perforation  and  subsequent  escape  of  the  aqueous  humor,  leading  to 
shrinking  of  the  eyeball  and  permanent  loss  of  sight,  have  been  i-e- 
corded,  but  these  are  relatively  rare,  although  slight  inflammation  of 
the  deeper  structures  of  the  eye  (iris)  are  more  frequent.  In  mihl 
cases  this  inflammation  may  undergo  complete  resolution,  but  more 
frequently  permanent  cloudliness  of  the  cornea,  either  diffuse  or  in 
spots  (leucoma),  is  the  result.  The  mucous  membrane  of  the  moutli, 
nose,  sinuses  of  the  head,  throatj  and  lower  respiratory  passages  are 


MALIGIS^ANT    CATAEEH.  469 

also  involved.  It  is  first  catarrhal  in  character,  but  soon  a  false  or 
diphtheritic  membrane  is  formed,  with  the  production  of  shallow 
ulcers.  There  is  dribbling  of  saliva  from  the  mouth  and  discharge 
from  the  nose,  at  first  watery,  becoming  thicker  and  mixed  with  blood 
and  small  masses  of  cast-off  croupous  membrane,  causing  a  ver}^  fetid 
odor.  These  croupous  areas  when  they  form  in  the  throat,  larynx,  or 
windpipe,  may  lead  to  narrowing  of  the  passages,  with  consequent 
difficult  breathing  and  even  suffocation.  Various  respiratory  mur- 
murs may  also  be  heard,  caused  by  the  to-and-fro  movement  of  mucus 
and  inflammatory  deposits  along  the  air  passages.  There  is  also 
inflammation  of  the  horn  core  with  consequent  loosening  of  the  horn 
shell,  and  the  horns  are  thus  readily  knocked  off  by  the  uneas}^,  blind 
sufferer.  The  animal  may  refuse  all  feed  from  the  time  of  the  initial 
rise  of  temperature,  or  in  less  severe  cases,  and  especially  when  the 
lesions  of  the  digestive  tract  are  not  so  marked,  the  appetite  may 
remain  until  the  disease  is  well  advanced.  Constipation  is  quite 
common  at  the  commencement  of  the  attack,  followed  by  diarrhea 
and  severe  straining,  the  evacuations  becoming  very  soft,  fetid,  and 
streaked  with  blood.  Cases  of  the  evacuation  uf  desquamated  patches 
of  diphtheritic  membrane  from  the  intestinal  mucosa  6  to  9  feet  in 
length  have  been  reported.  The  kidneys  and  bladder  are  usually 
inflamed,  the  urine  being  voided  with  difficulty  and  the  animal 
evincing  signs  of  pain.  Inflammatory  elements,  as  albumen,  casts, 
etc.,  may  be  seen  on  examination  of  the  urine.  In  cows  the  mucous 
membrane  of  the  vestibule  is  congested,  swollen,  and  inay  contain 
ulcers  and  an  excessive  quantity  of  mucus.  Abortion  during  ad- 
vanced pregnancy  is  not  infrequent,  following  a  severe  attack.  In 
connection  with  these  various  symptoms  there  may  be  much  uneasi- 
ness on  the  part  of  the  animal,  leading  in  some  cases  to  madness  and 
furious  delirium,  in  others  to  spasms  and  convulsions  or  paralysis. 
A  A'esicular  eruption  of  the  skin  may  occur,  seen  principally  between 
the  toes  and  en  the  inside  of  the  flanlc  and  in  the  armpits,  with  suId- 
sequent  less  of  hair  and  epidermis. 

Like  other  infectious  diseases,  malignant  catarrh  pursues  a  longer 
or  shorter  course  in  accordance  with  the  severity  of  the  attack.  In 
acute  cases  death  is  said  to  take  place  three  to  seven  days  after  the 
appearance  of  symptoms.  Recover}^,  if  it  occurs,  may  take  three  or 
four  Aveeks.  According  to  statistics,  from  50  to  90  per  cent  of  the 
affected  animals  die. 

If  animals  which  have  died  of  this  disease  are  examined,  in  addi- 
tion to  the  changes  of  the  mucous  membrane  of  mouth  and  nasal  cavi- 
ties referred  to  above,  shallow  ulcers  in  these  situations  will  be  found 
occasionally.  These  necrotic  processes  may  pass  beneath  the  mucous 
membrane  and  even  involve  the  underlvins:  bonv  structure.    In  severe 


470  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

cases  membranous  (croupous)  deposits  are  found  in  the  throat. 
Similar  deposits  have  been  found  upon  the  mucous  membrane  of  the 
fourth  stomach  and  intestine,  which  is  always  inflamed.  There  is 
more  or  less  inflammation  of  the  membranes  of  the  brain,  kidneys, 
and  liver,  and  some  fatty  degeneration  of  the  Aoluntary  muscles.  In 
countries  where  rinderpest  occasionally  appears  it  may  be  difficult 
to  distingl^ish  between  it  and  malignant  catarrh,  owing  to  a  general 
similarity  of  the  symptoms.  The  principal  points  to  be  observed  in 
differentiating  between  the  two  are  the  very  slight  transmissibility 
of  the  latter  as  compared  with  the  intense  contagiousness  of  the 
former,  and  the  tendency  of  malignant  catarrh  to  run  a  more  chronic 
course  than  rinderpest,  which  usually  results  fatally  in  a  very  few 
days.  Only  a  trained  veterinarian  who  takes  into  consideration  all 
the  different  symptoms  and  lesions  of  both  diseases  should  decide 
in  such  cases. 

Treatment. — There  is  no  specific  treatment  for  this  affection. 
Copious  blood  letting  in  the  earliest  stages  has  been  highly  recom- 
mended, howeA'er,  as  this  has  a  tendency  to  deplete  the  system  and 
lessen  the  exudation  of  inflammatory  products.  Antiseptic  washes, 
as  creoline,  2  to  4  per  cent  solution,  or  lysol,  5  per  cent  solution,  ap- 
plied to  the  nose,  eyes,  and  mouth  with  ice  poultices  over  the  crest 
of  the  head  and  frontal  region,  have  also  proved  efficacious.  Calomel 
should  also  be  given  in  1-dram  doses  twice  a  day  for  three  days,  and 
in  severe  cases,  involving  the  respiratory  tract,  a  powder  containing 
ferrous  sulphate,  quinin,  and  subnitrate  of  bismuth,  given  twice  a 
dav,  will  be  found  beneficial.  At  the  same  time  it  must  be  remem- 
bered that  much  greater  success  is  to  be  looked  for  in  the  preventive 
treatment.  This  consists  in  the  removal  of  the  healthy  from  the 
infected  animals  (not  vice  versa)  and  thorough  cleaning  and  disin- 
fecting of  the  contaminated  stables.  If  the  floors  are  low  and  damp, 
they  should  be  raised  and  made  dry.  If  this  can  not  be  done,  place 
a  layer  of  cement  under  the  stable  floor  to  prevent  water  from  enter- 
ing from  below.  The  stable  should  be  well  ventilated  and  the  soil  in 
the  pastures  thoroughly  drained.  If  this  is  carefully  carried  out,  tlie 
contagion  should  be  destroyed  and  the  danger  of  the  reappearance  of 
the  disease  in  a  great  measure  lessened. 

MALIGNANT  EDEMA. 

Malignant  edema,  also  termed  gangrenous  septicemia,  is  an  acute, 
inflammatory  disease  of  domestic  and  wild  animals,  resulting  from 
the  introduction  of  a  specific  organism  into  the  deep  connective  tissues 
of  a  susceptible  animal  and  proving  fatal  in  many  instances  within 
24  to  48  hours.  The  disease  may  be  inoculated  from  one  animal  to 
another,  but  only  by  inserting  the  virus  deeply  below  the  skin.     It 


MALIONAiS^T    EDEMA.  471 

is  infrequently  met  with  in  cattle,  but  may  follow  operating  wounds, 
as  roweling,  castration,  and  phlebotomy,  which  have  become  infected 
■\Aith  septic  matter,  soil,  or  unclean  instruments.  In  the  patho- 
logical laboratory  of  the  Bureau  of  Animal  Industry  the  organ- 
ism has  also  been  obtained  from  the  infected  muscles  of  a  calf 
that  was  supposed  to  have  died  of  blackleg,  and,  as  a  result,  all 
blackleg  virus  is  thoroughly  tested  before  it  is  made  into  blackleg 
vaccine  in  order  to  exclude  the  malignant-edema  organism.  The 
essential  cause  of  malignant  edema  is  a  long,  slender,  motile,  spore- 
bearing  bacillus,  resembling  the  bacillus  of  blackleg,  and  which  can 
develop  only  in  the  absence  of  the  atmosphere.  Unlike  the  bacilli  of 
anthrax  and  blackleg,  which  are  confined  to  certain  districts,  this 
organism  is  widely  distributed  and  found  in  oi'dinary  garden  soil, 
foul  water,  and  in  the  normal  intestinal  tract  of  the  herbivora.  It 
may  be  brought  to  the  surface  of  the  soil  by  growing  plants,  rains, 
winds,  or  burrowing  insects  and  rodents.  In  animals  that  haA^e  suc- 
cumbed to  the  disease  the  germ  is  confined  to  the  seat  of  infection,  but 
a  few  houi-s  after  death  it  may  migrate  through  the  blood  channels 
to  other  parts  of  the  bod5\  The  bacillus  may  attack  man,  horses, 
asses,  goats,  sheep,  pigs,  cats,  dogs,  and  poultry.  Adult  cattle,  al- 
though refractory  to  experimental  inoculation,  suffer  from  natural 
infection,  while  calves  are  susceptible  to  both  these  methods  of  ex- 
posure. (Kitt.)  The  introduction  of  the  bacillus  into  abrasions  of 
the  skin  and  superficial  sores  rarely  does  any  harm,  because  the  germ 
is  quickly  destroyed  by  contact  with  air.  If,  however,  the  organ- 
isms are  inserted  deeply  into  the  subcutaneous  tissues  of  susceptible 
animals,  they  quickly  develop,  producing  a  soluble  poison,  which  is 
the  fatal  agent. 

In  lamb-shearing  season,  or  after  docking  or  castration,  the  mor- 
tality is  higher  among  these  animals  because  of  wounds  inflicted  at 
such  times.  The  application  of  antiseptics  to  wounds  thus  made  will 
reduce  the  percentage  of  deaths  to  a  minimum. 

Symptoms. — Usually  the  first  symptoms  are  overlooked.  In  the 
early  stages  the  animal  appears  listless,  disinclined  to  move  about, 
and  lies  down  in  shady  and  quiet  places.  If  forced  to  move  about, 
the  hind  legs  are  drawn  forward  with  a  peculiar,  stiff,  dragging 
movement,  and  there  may  be  slight  muscular  trembling  over  all  the 
body,  which  becomes  more  intense  as  the  disease  progresses.  Wlien 
driven,  the  animal  shows  signs  of  fatigue,  ultimately  dropping  to 
the  ground  completely  exhausted.  Breathing  becomes  fast  and 
painful,  with  frequent  spasmodic  jerks. 

The  pulse  is  quick  and  weak  and  the  temperature  is  106°  to  107°  F. 
An  edematous,  doughy,  and  painful  swelling  appears  at  the  point  of 
infection.  This  tumefaction  spreads  more  and  more,  and  crackles 
on  pressure.     In  case  of  an  open  wound,  a  fetid  liquid  and  frothy 


472  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

discharge  is  observed.  The  center  of  the  swelling  may  appear  soft 
and  jellylike,  while  the  margin  is  tense,  hot,  and  painful.  The  symp- 
toms increase  rapidly,  resulting  in  coma  and  death. 

Lesions. — After  death  the  fat  and  subcutaneous  tissues  surround- 
ing the  infected  area  are  infiltrated  with  a  yellow  gelatinous  material 
containing  an  orange-colored  foam,  due  to  the  presence  of  gas 
bubbles. 

The  muscles  at  this  point  are  friable,  spongy,  and  of  a  uniform 
brownish  tint,  dissociated  by  gas  and  w^th  a  blood-tinged  exudate. 
This  gangrenous  tissue,  when  present  before  death,  can  be  removed 
without  pain  to  the  animal.  The  intestines  are  generally  normal, 
but,  together  with  the  peritoneum,  they  may  be  inflamed,  and  the 
lungs  are  usually  the  seat  of  an  edema.  The  spleen,  liver,  and  kid- 
neys retain  their  normal  appearance,  in  marked  contrast  with  anthrax. 

Differential  diagnosis. — Unlike  blackleg,  this  disease  never  appears 
as  an  epizootic  but  in  isolated  cases.  It  may  also  be  differentiated 
from  the  former  by  the  history  of  a  recent  parturition  or  surgical 
operation,  by  the  presence  of  an  external  injury  at  the  site  of  the 
swelling  accompanied  w-ith  a  fetid  liquid  discharge,  and  the  gan- 
grenous appearance  of  the  tumefaction.  Man  is  susceptible  to  malig- 
nant edema,  but  not  to  blackleg.  Malignant  edema  may  also  be  easily 
diiferentiated  from  anthrax  in  that  the  blood  and  spleen  are  normal  in 
appearance,  while  in  the  latter  disease  the  blood  is  dark  and  of  a 
tarlike  consistency,  and  the  spleen  appears  sw^ollen,  injected,  and 
softened.  The  local  tumor  in  malignant  edema  contains  gas  bul)bles, 
Avhich  are  absent  in  anthrax  swellings.  Inoculation  experiments  of 
guinea  pigs,  rabbits,  and  chickens  w^ill  also  disclose  the  differences 
among  the  above-mentioned  three  diseases,  since  all  these  species  are 
Icilled  by  the  germ  of  malignant  edema,  only  the  first  two  species 
by  the  anthrax  bacillus,  while  the  guinea  pig  alone  will  succumb  to 
the  blackleg  infection. 

Treat'nwu.t. — Treatment  is  chielly  surgical  and  consists  in  laying 
the  infected  areas  wide  open  by  free  incision,  followed  by  a  liberal 
application  of  a  30  per  cent  solution  of  hydrogen  dioxid  and  subse- 
quently a  5  per  cent  solution  of  carbolic  acid.  Usually  the  disease 
when  observed  has  advanced  to  such  an  extent  that  medicinal  inter- 
ference is  without  avail.  Preventi^•e  ti-eatnient  is  l)y  far  the  most 
desirable,  and  consists,  essentially,  in  a  thorough  disinfection  of  all 
accidental  and  surgical  wounds,  the  cleansing  of  the  skin,  and  the 
exclusion  of  soil,  filth,  and  bacteria  during  surgical  operations  of  any 
nature.  Sheds,  barns,  and  .stables  should  receive  a  thorough  applica- 
tion of  quicklime  or  crude  carbolic  acid  Avash  after  all  rul)l)ish  has 
been  removed  and  burned.  All  dead  animals  should  be  buiiied  or 
deepl}^  buried  and  covered  well  Avith  quicklime. 


TEXAS    FEVER.  473 

SOUTHERN  CATTLE   FEVER  (TEXAS  FEVER,  TICK  FEVER). 

[I'ls.  XLIV-XLIX.] 

This  disease,  Avhicli  is  more  commonly  known  as  Texas  fever,  and 
sometimes  as  splenetic  fever,  is  a  specific  fever  communicated  by  cattle 
Avhicli  have  recently  been  moved  northward  from  the  infected  dis- 
trict; it  is  also  contracted  l)y  cattle  taken  into  the  infected  district 
from  other  parts  of  the  world.  It  is  characterized  by  the  peculiarity 
,imong  animal  diseases  that  the  animals  which  disseminate  the  in- 
fection are  apparently  in  good  health,  while  those  which  sicken  and 
die  from  it  do  not,  as  a  rule,  infect  others. 

It  is  accompanied  with  high  fever,  greatly  enlarged  spleen,  destruc- 
tion of  the  red  blood  corpuscles,  escape  of  the  coloring  matter  of  the 
blood  through  the  kidneys,  giving  the  urine  a  deep-red  color,  with  a 
yellowness  of  the  mucous  membranes  and  fat,  which  is  seen  more 
especially  in  fat  cattle,  by  a  rapid  loss  of  strength,  and  with  fatal 
results  in  a  large  proportion  of  cases. 

This  disease  has  A'arious  names  in  different  sections  of  the  country 
where  it  frequenth^  appears.  It  is  often  called  Spanish  fcA'er,  accli- 
mation fever,  red  water,  black  water,  distemper,  murrain,  dry  mur- 
rain, yellow  murrain,  bloody  murrain,  Australian  tick  fever,  and 
tiisteza  of  South  America. 

The  earliest  accounts  we  have  of  this  disease  date  bsu-k  to  181-1, 
when  it  is  was  stated  by  Dr.  James  Mease,  before  the  Philadelphia 
Scjciety  for  Promoting  Agriculture,  tliat  the  cattle  from  a  certain 
district  in  South  Carolina  so  certainly  disease  all  othei's  with  which 
they  mix  in  their  progi-ess  to  the  North  that  they  are  prohibited  by 
the  ]:)eo]D]e  of  Virginia  from  passing  through  the  State ;  tiiat  these 
cattle  infect  others  while  they  themselves  are  in  perfect  health,  and 
that  cattle  from  Euiope  (;r  the  interior  taken  to  the  vicinity  of  the 
sea  are  attacked  by  a  disease  that  generally  proves  fatal.  Similar 
observations  have  been  made  in  regard  to  a  district  in  the  southern 
part  of  the  United  States  indicated  by  the  shaded  area  on  the  map, 
Phite  L.  The  northern  limits  of  this  area  are  changed  yearly  as  a 
result  of  the  dissemination  or  eradication  of  the  cattle  tick  along 
the  border,  but  the  infected  area  has  gradually  decreased,  owing  to 
the  successful  endeavors  pushed  forward  to  eliminate  the  ticks. 

It  was  the  frequent  and  severe  losses  following  the  driving  of  cattle 
from  the  infected  district  in  Texas  into  and  across  the  Western  States 
and  Territories  which  led  to  the  disease  being  denominated  Texas 
fever.  It  is  now  known,  however,  that  the  infection  is  not  peculiar 
to  Texas  or  even  to  the  United  States,  but  that  it  also  exists  in 
southern  Europe,  Central  and  South  America,  Australia,  South 
Africa,  and  tlie  West  Indies. 


474  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

'When  cattle  from  other  -sections  of  the  country  are  taken  into  the 
infected  district  they  contract  this  disease  usually  during  the  first 
summer,  and  if  they  are  adult  animals,  particularly  milch  cows  or  fat 
cattle,  nearl}'  all  die.  Calves  are  much  more  likely  to  survive.  The 
disease  is  one  from  which  immunity  is  acquired,  and  therefore  calves 
which  recover  are  not  again  attacked,  as  a  rule,  even  after  they  be- 
come adult. 

"When  the  infection  i-  disseminated  beyond  the  permanently  in- 
fected district,  the  roads,  pastures,  pens,  and  other  inclosures  are 
dangerous  for  susceptible  animals  until  freezing  weather.  The  infec- 
tion then  disappears,  and  cattle  may  be  driven  over  the  grounds  or 
kept  in  the  inclosures  the  succeeding  summer  and  the  disease  will  not 
reappear.  There  are  some  exceptions  to  this  rule  in  the  section  just 
north  of  the  boundary  line  of  the  infected  district.  In  this  locality 
the  infection  sometimes  resists  the  winters,  especially  if  they  are 
mild. 

In  regard  to  the  manner  in  which  the  disease  is  communicated, 
experience  shows  that  this  does  not  occur  by  animals  coming  near  or 
in  contact  with  one  another.  It  is  an  indirect  infection.  The  cattle 
from  the  infected  district  first  infect  the  pastures,  roads,  pens,  cars, 
etc.,  whence  the  susceptible  cattle  obtain  the  virus  secondhand. 
Usually  animals  do  not  contract  the  disease  when  separated  from  in- 
fected pastures  by  a  fence.  If,  however,  there  is  any  drainage  or 
washing  by  rains  across  the  line  of  fence  this  rule  does  not  hold  good. 

The  investigations  made  by  the  Bureau  of  Animal  Industry  demon- 
strate that  the  ticks  v.hich  adhere  to  cattle  from  the  infected  district 
are  the  only  known  means  of  conveying  the  infection  to  susceptible 
cattle.  The  infection  is  not  spread  by  the  saliva,  the  urine,  or  the 
manure  of  cattle  from  the  infected  district.  In  studying  the  causa- 
tion and  prevention  of  this  disease,  attention  must  therefore  be 
largely  given  to  the  tick,  and  it  now  seems  apparent  that  if  cattle 
could  be  freed  from  this  parasite  when  leaving  the  infected  district 
they  would  not  be  able  to  spread  the  malady.  The  discovery  of  the 
connection  of  the  ticks  with  the  production  of  the  disease  has  played 
a  very  important  part  in  determining  the  methods  that  should  be 
adopted  in  preventing  its  spread.  It  established  an  essential  point 
and  indicated  many  lines  of  investigation  which  have  yielded  and  are 
still  likely  to  yield  very  important  results. 

Nature  of  the  disease. — Texas  fever  is  caused  by  an  organism  which 
lives  within  the  red  blood  corpuscles  and  breaks  them  up.  It  is  there- 
fore simply  a  blood  disease.  The  organism  does  not  belong  to  the 
bacteria  but  to  the  protozoa.  It  is  not,  in  other  words,  a  microscopic 
plant,  but  it  belongs  to  the  lowest  forms  of  the  animal  kingdom. 
This  very  minute  organism  multiplies  very  rapidly  in  the  body  of  the 
infected  animal,  and  in  acute  cases  causes  an  enormous  destruction 


TEXAS    FEVER.  475 

of  red  corpuscles  in  a  few  days.  How  it  gets  into  the  red  corpuscle 
it  is  not  possible  to  state,  but  it  appears  that  it  enters  as  an  exceed- 
ingly minute  body,  probably  endowed  with  motion,  and  only  after  it 
has  succeeded  in  entering  the  corpuscle  does  it  begin  to  enlarge. 
Plate  XLV.  figure  4,  illustrates  an  early  stage  of  this  blood  para- 
site. The  red  corpuscle  contains  a  very  minute,  roundish  body  which 
is  stained  blue  to  bring  it  into  view.  The  body  is,  as  a  rule,  situated 
near  the  edge  of  the  corpuscle.  Figure  5  illustrates  an  older  stage  in 
the  growth  of  the  parasite,  in  fact  the  largest  which  has  thus  far  been 
detected.  It  will  be  noticed  that  there  are  usually  two  bodies  in  a 
corpuscle.  These  bodies  are  in  general  pear-shaped.  The  narrow 
ends  are  always  toward  each  other  when  two  are  present  in  the  same 
corpuscle.  If  we  bear  in  mind  that  the  average  diameter  of  the  red 
blood  corpuscles  of  cattle  is  from  4 (^\  ^  to  -g-oViJ  inch,  the  size  of  the 
contained  parasite  may  be  at  once  appreciated  by  a  glance  at  the 
figures  referred  to. 

The  various  disease  processes  which  go  on  in  Texas  fever,  and 
which  we  may  observe  by  examining  the  organs  after  death,  all  result 
from  the  destruction  of  the  red  corpuscles ;  this  destruction  may  be 
extremely  rapid  or  slow.  When  it  is  rapid  we  have  the  acute,  usually 
fatal,  type  of  Texas  fever,  which  is  always  w^itnessed  in  the  height 
of  the  Texas-fever  season;  that  is,  during  the  latter  w^eeks  of  August 
and  the  early  weeks  of  September.  When  the  destruction  of  corpus- 
cles is  slower,  a  mild,  usually  nonfatal,  type  of  the  disease  is  called 
forth,  which  is  onh'  witnessed  late  in  autumn  or  more  rarely  in  July 
and  the  earh'  part  of  August.  Cases  of  the  mild  type  occurring  thus 
early  usually  become  acute  later  and  terminate  fatally. 

The  acute  disease  is  fatal  in  most  cases,  and  the  fatality  is  due  not 
so  much  to  the  loss  of  blood  corpuscles  as  to  the  difficulty  which  the 
organs  have  in  getting  rid  of  the  waste  products  arising  from  this 
wholesale  destruction.  Plow  great  this  may  be  a  simple  calculation 
will  serve  to  illustrate.  In  a  steer  weighing  1,C00  pounds,  the  blood 
in  its  body  weighs  about  50  pounds,  if  we  assume  that  the  blood 
represents  one-twentieth  of  the  weight  of  the  body,  Avhich  is  a  rather 
low^  estimate.  According  to  experimental  determination  at  the 
bureau  station,  which  consists  in  counting  the  number  of  blood 
corpuscles  in  a  given  quantitv  of  blood  from  day  to  day  in  such  an 
animal,  the  corpuscles  contained  in  from  5  to  10  pounds  of  blood 
may  be  destroyed  within  24  hours.  The  remains  of  these  corpuscles 
and  the  coloring  matter  in  them  must  be  either  converted  into  bile 
or  excreted  unchanged.  The  result  of  this  effort  on  the  part  of  the 
liver  causes  extensive  disease  of  this  organ.  The  bile  secreted  by  the 
liver  cells  contains  so  much  solid  material  that  it  stagnates  in  the 
finest  bile  canals  and  chokes  these  up  completely.  This  in  turn  inter- 
feres with  the  nutrition  of  the  liver  cells  and  they  undergo  fatty  de- 


476  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

generation  and  perish.  The  functions  of  the  liver  are  thereby  com- 
pletely suspended  and  death  is  the  result.  This  enormous  destruc- 
tion of  corpuscles  takes  place  to  a  large  extent  in  the  kidneys,  ^vhere 
a  great  number  of  corpuscles  containing  the  parasites  are  always 
found  in  acute  cases.  T]iis  accounts  largely  for  the  blood-colored 
urine,  or  red  Avater,  which  is  such  a  characteristic  feature  of  Texas 
fever.  The  corpuscles  themselves  are  not  found  in  the  urine;  it  is 
the  red  coloring  matter,  or  hemoglobin,  which  leaves  them  when  they 
break  up  and  pass  into  the  urine. 

Symptoms. — After  a  period  of  exposure  to  infected  soil,  which 
may  vary  from  13  to  90  days,  and  which  will  be  more  fully  discussed 
under  the  subject  of  cattle  ticks  as  bearers  of  the  Texas-fever  para- 
site, the  disease  first  shows  itself  in  dullness,  loss  of  appetite,  and  a 
tendency  to  leave  the  herd  and  stand  or  lie  down  alone.  A  fcAv  days 
before  these  symptoms  appear  the  presence  of  a  high  fever  may  be 
detected  by  the  clinical  thermometer.  The  temperature  rises  from 
a  normal  of  101°  to  103°  F.  to  106°  and  107°  F.  There  seems  to  be 
little  or  no  change  in  temperature  until  recovery  or  death  ensues. 
The  period  of  high  temperature  or  fever  varies  considerably.  As  it 
indicates  the  intensity  of  the  disease  process  going  on  within,  the 
higher  it  is  the  more  rapid  the  fatal  end.  When  it  does  not  rise 
above  101°  F.  the  disease  is  milder  and  more  prolonged. 

The  bowels  are  niosth'  constipated  during  the  fever;  toward  the 
end  the  feces  may  become  softer  and  rather  deeply  tinged  with  bile. 
The  urine  shows  nothing  abnormal  during  the  course  of  the  disease 
until  near  the  fatal  termination,  when  it  may  be  deeply  stained  with 
the  coloring  matter  cf  the  blood.  (Hemoglobinuria;  see  PI.  XLV, 
fig.  3.)  Although  this  symptom  is  occasionally  observed  in  animals 
which  recover,  yet  it  may  generally  be  regarded  as  an  indication  of 
approaching  death.  The  pulse  and  respiration  are  usually  unich 
more  rapid  than  during  health. 

Other  symptoms  in  addition  to  those  mentioned  have  been  de- 
scribed by  observers,  but  they  do  not  seem  to  be  constant,  and  only 
those  described  above  ai-e  nearly  always  present.  As  the  end  ap- 
proaches emaciation  becomes  very  marked,  the  blood  is  very  thin 
and  watery,  and  the  closing  of  any  wound  of  the  skin  by  clots  is  re- 
tarded. The  animal  manifests  increasing  stupor  and  may  lie  down 
much  of  the  time.  Signs  of  delirium  have  been  observed  in  some 
cases.    Death  occurs  most  frequently  in  the  night. 

The  duration  of  the  disease  is  very  variable.  Death  may  ensue 
in  from  three  da3^s  to  several  weeks  after  the  beginning  of  the  fe\  er. 
Those  that  recover  ultimately  do  so  very  slowly,  owing  to  the 
great  povei'ty  of  the  blood  in  red  coi'puscles.  The  fltv^h  is  regained 
but  vei-y  gi-adually,  and  the  animal  may  be  subjected  to  a   second. 


TEXAS   FEVER.  477 

though  mild,  attack  hiter  on  in  the  autumn,  which  pushes  the  full 
recovery  onward  to  the  beginning  of  winter. 

In  the  mild  type  of  the  disease,  which  occurs  in  October  and  Xo- 
vember,  sj^mptoms  of  disease  are  well-nigh  absent.  There  is  little 
if  any  fever,  and  if  it  were  not  for  loss  of  flesh  and  more  or  less  dull- 
ness the  disease  may  pass  unnoticed,  as  it  undoubtedly  does  in  a 
majority  of  cases.  If,  however,  the  blood  corpuscles  are  counted  from 
time  to  time  a  gradually  diminishing  number  will  be  found,  and 
after  several  weeks  only  about  one-fifth  or  one-sixth  of  the  normal 
number  are  present.  It  is  indeed  surprising  how  little  impression 
upon  the  animal  this  very  impoverished  condition  of  the  blood  ap- 
pears to  make.  It  is  probable,  however,  that  if  two  animals  kept 
under  the  same  conditions,  one  healthy  and  the  other  at  the  end  of 
one  of  these  mild  attacks,. are  weighed,  the  difference  would  be  plainly 
.shown. 

Pathological  changes_  ohservahle  after  death. — In  the  preceding 
pages  some  of  these  have  already  been  referred  to  in  describing  the 
nature  of  the  disease.  It  is  very  important  at  times  to  determine 
whether  a  certain  disease  is  Texas  fever  or  some  other  disease,  like 
anthrax,  for  example.  This  fact  can,  as  a  rule,  be  determined  at 
once  by  a  thorough  microscopic  examination  of  the  blood.  The 
necessary  apparatus  and  the  requisite  qualifications  for  this  task 
leave  this  method  entirely  in  the  hands  of  experts.  There  are,  how- 
ever, a  considerable  number  of  changes  caused  by  this  disease  vrhich 
may  be  detected  by  the  naked  eye  when  the  body  has  been  opened. 
Put  together  they  make  a  mistake  quite  impossible.  The  presence  of 
small  ticks  on  the  skin  of  the  escutcheon,  the  thighs,  and  the  udder 
is  a  very  important  sign  in  herds  north  of  the  Texas- fever  line,  as  it 
indicates  that  they  have  been  brought  in  some  manner  from  the  South 
and  have  carried  the  disease  with  them,  as  will  be  explained  later. 
Another  very  important  sign  is  the  thin,  watery  condition  of  the 
blood,  either  just  before  death  or  when  the  fever  has  been  present  for 
four  or  five  days.  A  little  incision  into  the  skin  will  enable  any  one 
to  determine  this  point.  Frequently  the  skin  is  so  poor  in  blood  that 
it  may  require  several  incisions  to  draw  a  drop  or  more. 

The  changes  in  the  internal  organs,  as  found  on  post-mortem  ex- 
aminations, are  briefly  as  follows :  The  spleen,  or  milt,  is  much  larger 
than  in  healthy  animals.  It  may  weigh  three  or  four  times  as  much. 
When  it  is  incised  the  contents  or  pulp  is  blackish  (see  PI.  XLIV, 
fig.  1),  and  may  even  well  out  as  a  disintegrated  mass.  The  mark- 
ings of  the  healthy  spleen  (fig.  2)  are  all  effaced  by  the  enormous 
number  of  blood  corpuscles  which  have  collected  in  it,  and  to 
which  the  enlargement  is  attributable.  Next  to  the  spleen  the  liver 
will  arouse  our  attention.     (See  PI.  XLV,  fig.  2.)     It  is  larger  than 


478  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

in  the  healthy  state,  has  lost  its  natural  brownish  color  (fig.  1),  and 
now  has  on  the  surface  a  paler,  yellowish  hue.  When  it  is  incised' 
this  yellowish  tinge,  or  mahogany  color,  as  it  has  been  called  by 
some,  is  still  more  prominent.  This  is  owing  to  the  large  quantity  of 
bile  in  the  finest  bile  capillaries,  and  as  these  are  not  uniformly  filled 
with  it  the  cut  surface  has  a  more  or  less  mottled  appearance.  This 
bile  injection  causes  in  many  cases  a  fatty  degeneration  of  the  liver 
cells,  which  makes  the  organ  appear  still  lighter  in  color. 

In  all  cases  the  gall  bladder  should  be  examined.  This  is  dis- 
tended with  bile,  which  holds  in  suspension  a  large  number  of 
yellow  flakes,  so  that  when  it  is  poured  into  a  tall  bottle  to  settle 
fully  one-half  or  more  of  the  column  of  fluid  will  be  occupied  by  a 
layer  of  flakes.  If  mucus  is  present  at  the  same  time,  the  bile  may 
become  so  viscid  that  when  it  is  poured  from  one  glass  to  another  it 
forms  long  bands.  The  bile  in  health  is  a  limpid  fluid,  containing 
no  solid  particles. 

If  the  animal  during  life  has  not  been  observed  to  pass  urine 
colored  with  blood  or  red  water,  the  bladder  should  be  opened.  This 
quite  invariably,  in  acute  cases,  contains  urine  which  varies  in  color 
from  a  deep  port  wine  to  a  light  claret.  In  many  cases  the  color  is 
so  dense  that  light  will  not  pass  through  e^en  a  thin  layer.  (PI. 
XLV,  fig.  3.)  The  kidneys  are  always  found  congested  in  the  acute 
attack.  The  disease  exerts  but  little  effect  on  the  stomach  and 
intestines  beyond  more  or  less  reddening  of  the  mucous  membrane; 
hence  an  examination  of  them  may  be  safely  omitted.  The  lungs 
are,  as  a  rule,  not  diseased.  The  heart  usually  shows  patches  of 
blood  extravasation  on  the  inside  (left  ventricle)  and  less  markedly 
on  the  outer  surface. 

We  have  observed  jaundice  of  the  various  tissues  but  very  rarely. 
It  has  been  observed  by  some  quite  regularly,  however. 

During  the  hot  season  about  90  per  cent  of  the  susceptible  mature 
animals  from  a  noninfected  district  die,  but  later,  in  the  cool  weather, 
the  disease  assumes  a  milder  type,  with  a  consequent  decrease  in  the 
number  of  deaths. 

The  cattle  tick,  Margaropus  annulatus,  as  the  carrier  of  Texas 
fever.  (Pis.  XLVI,  XL^^I,  and  XL VIII.)— The  cattle  tick  is,  as 
its  name  indicates,  a  parasite  of  cattle  in  the  southern  ixirt  of  the 
United  States.  It  belongs  to  the  group  of  Arthropoda  and  to  the 
genus  Margaropus  (or  Boophilus),  which  is  included  in  the  order 
Acarina.  Its  life  history  is  quite  simple  and  easily  traced  from  one 
generation  to  another.  It  is  essentially  a  parasite,  attaching  itself  to 
the  skin  (PL  XL VIII)  and  drawing  the  blood  of  its  host.  It  is 
unable  to  come  to  maturity  and  reproduce  its  kind  unless  it  becomes 
attached  to  the  skin  of  cattle,  whence  it  may  obtain  its  food. 


TEXAS   FEVER.  479 

The  eggs  laid  on.  the  ground  after  the  female  has  dropped  from, 
the  hoet  begin  to  develop  at  once.  When  the  embryo  is  fully  formed 
within  the  shell  it  ruptures  this  and  gains  its  freedom.  The  time 
required  from  the  laying  of  the  eggs  to  their  hatching  varies  consid- 
erably, according  to  the  temperature.  In  the  laboratory  in  the  heat 
of  midsummer  this  was  accomjjlished  in  about  13  days.  In  the  late 
fall,  under  the  same  conditions,  it  required  from  four  to  six  weeks. 
The  larva  after  emerging  from  the  egg  is  very  minute,  six-legged, 
and  is  just  visible  to  the  naked  eye.  (PI.  XL VI,  fig.  3.)  If  these 
larvae  are  kept  on  a  layer  of  moist  sand  or  earth  in  a  covered  dish, 
they  may  remain  alive  for  months,  but  there  is  no  appreciable  in- 
crease in  size.  So  soon,  however,  as  they  are  placed  upon  cattle 
growth  begins. 

On  pastures  these  little  creatures  soon  find  their  waj^  on  to  cattle. 
They  attach  themselves  by  preference  to  the  tender  skin  on  the 
escutcheon,  the  inside  of  the  thighs,  and  on  the  base  of  the  udder. 
Yet  when  they  are  very  numerous  they  may  he  found  in  small  num- 
bers on  various  parts  of  the  body,  such  as  the  neck,  the  chest,  and 
the  ears.     (PI.  XLYIII  and  PL  XLIX,  fig.  1.) 

The  changes  which  they  undergo  during  their  parasitic  existence 
were  first  studied  by  Dr.  Cooper  Curtice,  of  the  Bureau  of  Animal 
Industry,  in  1889.  The  young  tick  molts  within  a  week,  and  the  sec- 
ond or  nymphal  stage  of  the  parasite's  life  is  thus  ushered  in.  After 
this  change  it  has  four  pairs  of  legs.  Within  another  week  another 
molt  takes  place  by  which  the  tick  passes  from  the  nymphal  to  the 
sexual,  or  adult,  stage.  Impregnation  now  takes  place,  and,  with  the 
development  of  the  ova  in  the  body,  the  tick  takes  an  increased  quan- 
tity of  blood,  so  that  in  a  few  days  it  becomes  very  much  larger. 
That  the  rapid  growth  is  due  to  the  blood  taken  in  may  be  easily 
proved  by  crushing  one.  The  intestine  is  distended  with  a  thick, 
tarry  mass  composed  of  partly  digested  blood.  When  the  female  has 
reached  a  certain  stage  of  maturity  she  drops  to  the  ground  and 
begins  to  lay  a  large  number  of  eggs,  which  hatch  in  the  time  given 
above. 

The  life  of  the  cattle  tick  is  thus  spent  largely  on  cattle,  and 
although  the  young,  or  larvje,  may  live  for  a  long  time  on  the 
ground  in  the  summer  season,  they  can  not  mature  except  as  para- 
sites on  cattle  and  horses.  We  have  purposely  omitted  various  details 
of  the  life  history,  including  that  of  the  male,  as  they  are  not  neces- 
sary to  an  understanding  of  our  present  subject — Texas  fever.  How 
this  is  transmitted  we  will  proceed  to  consider.  Before  the  enforce- 
ment of  the  Federal  quarantine  southern  cattle  sent  north  during  the 
spring  and  summer  months  carried  on  their  bodies  large  numbers  of 
the  cattle  ticks,  which,  when  matured,  would  drop  off  and  lay  their 


480  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

eggs  in  the  northern  pastures.  After  hatching,  the  young  ticks  would 
soon  get  upon  any  northern  cattle  which  happened  to  be  on  the  pas- 
ture. So  soon  as  they  attached  themselves  to  the  skin  they  inocu- 
lated the  cattle,  and  Texas  fcAer  would  break  out  a  Aveek  or  more 
thereafter.  For  many  years  there  had  been  a  growing  suspicion  that 
the  cattle  tick  was  in  some  way  concerned  in  the  spread  of  Texas 
fever,  and  the  facts  which  supported  this  supposition  finally  became 
so  numerous  and  convincing  that  a  series  of  experiments  Avas  inaugu- 
rated by  the  Bureau  of  Animal  Industry  wdiich  served  to  show  that 
the  tick  is  abundantly  able  to  carry  the  disease  to  a  herd  of  healthy 
cattle,  and,  in  fact,  is  probably  the  only  agent  concerned  in  the  trans- 
mission of  the  disease  from  southern  cattle  to  susceptible  northern 
animals. 

Injurious  ejfecU  of  cattle  tkl^s. — Unfortunately  many  cattle  owners 
who  have  always  been  accustomed  to  see  both  ticks  and  ticlr^  cattle 
on  their  farms  are  not  inclined  to  attach  much  importance  to  these 
parasites,  and,  as  a  rule,  through  lack  of  appreciation  of  their  dam- 
aging effects,  placidly  consider  them  as  of  little  consequence.  That 
ticks  may  be  detrimental  to  their  hosts  in  several  ways  has  probably 
not  suggested  itself  to  these  stockmen,  who  are  most  vitally  affected, 
and  it  therefore  seems  necessary  to  emphasize  the  fact  that,  in  ad- 
dition to  their  relation  to  Texas  fever,  they  may  also  be  injurious 
to  cattle  as  external  parasites.  While  the  power  of  transmitting 
Texas  fever  is  undoubtedly  the  most  dangerous  property  possessed 
by  the  cattle  tick  and  is  the  principal  cause  for  adopting  stringent 
measures  looking  to  its  complete  eradication,  nevertheless  there  still 
remain  other  good  reasons  for  the  accomplishment  of  this  achieve- 
ment. These  secondary  objections  to  tlie  presence,of  ticks  on  cattle 
consists  in  the  physical  harm  they  do  to  the  host  aside  from  the  pro- 
duction of  the  specific  disease  of  Texas  fever.  True,  a  few  parasites 
may  remain  on  cattle  indefinitely  Avithout  causing  any  noticeable 
effect,  but  it  is  not  uncommon  to  notice  bovine  animals  on  pastures 
with  their  hides  heavily  infested  with  these  pests.  In  such  cases  it 
can  readily  be  seen  that  the  continuous  sucking  of  blood  causes  more 
or  less  impoverishment  of  the  circulation.  The  animal  must  there- 
fore be  fed  more  in  order  to  meet  the  demands  of  the  parasites  in 
addition  to  the  ordinary  needs  of  the  host.  If  the  ticks  are  removed 
from  the  body,  the  bites  inflicted  are  often  distingiiished  by  small, 
inflamed  or  reddened  areas  somewhat  swollen,  with  perforations  of 
the  skin  which  may  allow  the  entrance  of  various  kinds  of  disease 
germs,  and  showing  that  more  or  less  irritation  of  the  hide  is  pro- 
duced by  these  parasites.  This  condition,  together  with  the  loss  of 
blood,  frequently  induces  an  irritable  state  and  evidence  of  uneasiness 
commonly  known  as  "  tick  worry,"  whidi  results  in  the  loss  of  energy 
and  other  derangements  of  the  animal's  healtli.    It  may  in  some  cases, 


TEXAS   FEVER.  481 

especially  in  liot  weather,  become  so  pronoimced  that  the  animal  will 
lose  flesh  in  spite  of  good  pasturing,  thereby  reducing  the  vitality 
and  rendering  it  more  susceptible  to  the  inroads  of  disease.  More- 
over, if  the  infestation  of  ticks  is  not  controlled,  the  cattle  may  be  so 
reduced  in  condition  that  growth  is  retarded,  and,  in  the  case  of 
young  animals,  they  may  never  become  fully  developed,  but  remain 
thin,  w^eak,  and  stunted — a  condition  that  has  been  termed  "  tick  pov- 
erty"— and  easily  succumb  to  other  diseases  as  a  result  of  lowered 
vitality.  In  milch  cows  this  debilitating  influence  of  the  numerous 
ticks  is  shown  in  a  greatly  reduced  milk  supply.  This  should  not 
appear  strange  when  it  is  considered  that  some  animals  harbor  several 
thousand  of  the  bloodsucking  parasites.  If  these  parasites  are 
crushed,  it  will  be  found  that  their  intestines  are  completely  filled 
with  a  dark,  thick  mass  of  blood  abstracted  from  the  animal  host 
and  containing  nutriment  that  should  go  to  the  formation  of  milk, 
flesh,  and  the  laying  on  of  fat.  In  some  rare  cases  the  large  number 
of  bites  on  a  limited  area  of  skin  may  be  followed  by  infection  with 
pus-producing  organisms,  giving  rise  to  small  abscesses  which  may 
terminate  in  ulcers.  The  discharge  from  these  sores,  or  in  some  cases 
the  mere  oozing  of  blood  serum  through  the  incision  made  by  the 
mouth  parts  of  the  ticks,  keeps  the  hair  moist  and  matted  together, 
and  the  laying  and  hatching  of  fly  eggs  in  these  areas  give  rise  to 
infestation  with  destructive  maggots,  causing  ulcers  and  other  com- 
plications that  require  medical  treatment.  These  statements  regard- 
ing the  secondary  injurious  effects  of  cattle  ticks  also  apply  to  those 
ticks  which  have  been  previously  spoken  of  as  harmless  so  far  as 
Texas  fever  is  concerned,  and,  in  fact,  to  all  external  parasites.  There- 
fore, it  is  just  as  important  to  eradicate  the  cattle  ticks  for  reasons 
other  than  those  associated  with  Texas  fever  as  it  is  to  exterminate 
lice,  fleas,  and  other  vermin.  Furthermore,  cattle  ticks,  aside  from 
the  losses  sustained  by  their  purely  parasitic  effects,  are  the  greatest 
menace  to  the  profitable  raising  and  feeding  of  cattle  in  the  South, 
because  they  are  an  obstacle  to  cattle  traffic  between  the  infected  and 
noninfected  districts. 

Loss  occasioned  hy  cattle  ticks. — The  economic  aspect  of  the  tick 
problem  is  unquestionably  of  the  greatest  practical  interest,  since 
the  fundamental  importance  of  all  the  other  questions  which  sur- 
round it  depends  upon  the  actual  money  value  involved.  It  would 
therefore  seem  advisable  to  furnish  a  few  statistics  showing  the 
financial  loss  sustained  by  the  country  as  a  result  of  the  presence  of 
this  parasite.  It  is  well  known  that  those  animals  coming  from  an 
infected  district  and  sold  in  the  "  southern  pens  "  of  northern  stock- 
yards bring  about  one-half  a  cent  less  per  pound  than  the  quoted 
market  price.  The  handicap  that  is  placed  on  the  southern  cattle 
raiser  as  a  result  of  this  decrease  in  value  of  his  stock  will  average 
33071°— 16 31 


482  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

at  this  figure  $3  per  head,  allowing  an  individual  weight  of  600 
pounds  for  all  classes  of  animals,  so  that  the  loss  on  approximately 
2,000,000  southern  cattle  from  the  quarantined  area,  including  stock, 
beef,  and  dairy  animals,  marketed  yearly  under  these  conditions 
will  sum  up  a  loss  of  $6,000,000  per  annum.  Carrying  this  estimate 
still  further,  it  will  be  found  that  this  decreased  value  reacts  and 
fixes  the  valuation  of  all  cattle  which  remain  in  the  infected  territory, 
thereby  reducing  the  assets  of  the  cattle  industry  of  that  section  by  this 
ratio  per  head  for  the  11,000,000  cattle  which  are  at  this  time  (Janu- 
ary, 1916)  estimated  to  be  below  the  quarantine  line;  or,  altogether, 
the  enormous  shrinkage  in  value  of  $33,000,000  directly  chargeable 
to  the  cattle  tick.  This  last  sum,  however,  should  not  be  considered  in 
determining  the  yearly  devastation  caused  by  the  cattle  tick,  but 
rather  as  an  unnecessary  reduction  in  the  assets  of  the  infected 
country.  This  loss  does  not  include  the  decrease  in  flesh  and  lack  of 
development  of  southern  cattle  occasioned  by  the  parasitic  life  of 
the  ticks  from  without  and  by  the  blood-destroj'ing  and  enervating 
properties  of  the  protozoan  parasites  from  within,  an  additional  loss 
which  is  so  very  great  that  a  conservative  estimate  would  place  it 
at  not  less  than  $20,000,000  for  the  cattle  annually  marketed. 

The  presence  of  the  tick  among  the  cattle  of  the  South  not  only 
lessens  the  value  of  the  cattle  on  the  hoof  but  causes  the  gradings  of 
hides  that  have  been  infested  with  ticks  as  No.  4  quality.  The  same 
hide,  if  free  from  tick  marks,  would  grade  No.  2.  The  difference 
in  price  between  these  two  grades  of  hides  is  3  cents  a  pound.  As 
the  hide  of  a  southern  steer  weighs  about  42  pounds,  the  presence  of 
the  tick  in  the  hide  causes  a  loss  in  the  hide  alone  of  more  than  $1.26 
a  hide.  It  has  been  shown  that  the  cost  of  tick  eradication  is  only 
about  50  cents  a  head,  so  that  if  the  counties  make  a  systematic  cam- 
paign to  eradicate  the  tick,  the  increase  in  value  of  the  hide  alone 
would  pay  for  the  cost  of  tick  eradication  and  leave  the  farmer  a 
net  profit  of  about  76  cents  a  hide. 

The  shrinkage  in  the  milk  production  of  cattle  harboring  many 
ticks  will  average  1  quart  a  day,  and  the  loss  occasioned  thereby  at 
3  cents  a  quart  for  the  875,000  ticky  dairy  cattle  out  of  more  than 
3,000,000  dairy  cattle  below  the  quarantine  line  would  amount  to 
$26,250  a  day,  or,  counting  300  milking  days  for  each  cow  to  the 
year,  $7,875,000  per  annum.  The  damage  resulting  to  the  soutliern 
purchaser  of  northern  pure-bred  or  high-grade  cattle  is  another  item 
of  no  small  moment.  About  10  per  cent  of  all  such  cattle  taken  into 
the  South  die  of  Texas  fever,  even  after  they  are  immunized  by 
blood  inoculations,  and  about  60  per  cent  of  them  succumb  to  Texas 
fever  when  not  so  treated.  As  they  are  usually  very  expensive  ani- 
mals and  of  a  highly  valued  strain  of  blood,  the  loss  in  certain 
cases  is  excessive  and  in  othere  almost  irreparable,  owing  to  the 


TEXAS   FEVER.  483 

possible  extinction  of  some  particular  type  especially  selected  for 
the  improvement  of  the  herd. 

Another  instance  in  which  it  is  difficult  to  figure  the  injury  done 
by  the  ticks  is  in  the  case  of  death  of  nonimmune  cattle  in  the  tick- 
free  pastures  of  the  South.  Such  animals  are  as  susceptible  to  Texas 
fever  as  nonimmune  northern  cattle,  and  inasmuch  as  there  is  in 
many  States  only  one  out  of  every  four  farms  infested  with  ticks,  the 
cattle  on  the  remaining  farms  will  in  many  cases  contract  Texas 
fever  when  exposed  to  the  fever  tick.  These  losses  can  scarcely  be 
computed,  as  the  death  rate  depends  so  much  on  the  season  of  the 
year  when  exposure  occurs  and  on  the  age  of  the  animal  affected. 
However,  the  deaths  among  such  cattle  are  considerable,  although 
this  fact  is  little  appreciated  or  understood  by  many  outside  the  in- 
fected area.  Thus,  if  we  consider  one-tenth  of  the  cattle  below  the 
line  as  nonimmunes  which  contract  the  disease  on  exposure  to  ticks, 
and  if  we  figure  on  the  death  rate  of  25  per  cent  of  these  animals — 
a  conservative  estimate — the  loss  would  amount  to  275,000  animals, 
which,  at  an  estimated  value  of  $20  a  head,  would  amount  to  a  loss 
of  $5,500,000  per  annum.  This  sum,  excessive  as  it  may  seem,  rep- 
resents a  smaller  percentage  of  loss  on  the  total  valuation  of  neat 
cattle  than  has  been  determined  by  several  of  the  infected  States. 

On  rare  occasions  a  small  outbreak  of  Texas  fever  occurs  north 
of  the  quarantine  line  as  a  result  of  improperly  disinfected  cars,  of 
unscrupulous  dealers  breaking  the  quarantine  regulations,  or  of 
some  accidental  condition.  Such  damage,  however,  is  slight,  but 
should  be  considered  in  summing  up  the  loss  occasioned  by  the  fever 
tick. 

The  advertisement  which  a  breeder  obtains  and  the  sales  which  are 
made  by  having  his  stock  in  the  show  ring  are  usually  lost  to  the 
southern  cattle  raiser  who  aspires  to  display  his  animals  in  the 
North,  as  they  are  barred  from  most  of  these  exhibitions.  On  the 
other  hand,  the  southern  farmer  is  not  given  an  opportunity  to  see 
and  be  stimulated  by  the  fine  specimens  of  northern  cattle  which 
might  be  shown  at  southern  stock  exhibits,  for  the  reason  that  the 
danger  of  contracting  Texas  fever  is  too  patent  to  warrant  such 
exposure.  The  expense  incurred  by  the  Government  and  the  States 
in  enforcing  the  regulations  that  apply  to  the  quarantine  line  reaches 
about  $65,000  per  annum. 

Another  loss  which  is  indirectly  sustained  by  the  southern  cattle 
industry  through  increased  freight  rates  is  the  cost,  to  the  railroad 
companies,  of  cleaning  and  disinfecting  the  cars  that  carry  cattle 
and  in  providing  separate  pens  for  them  at  various  places.  This 
sum  may  be  calculated  at  not  less  than  $29,000  per  annum. 

If  all  the  above-mentioned  losses  are  added  it  will  be  found  that  the 
Texas-fever  tick  is  responsible  for  about  $40,000,000  of  loss  annually 


484  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

to  the  people  of  the  infected  coimtrj",  and  that  it  also  lowers  the 
assets  of  the  South  by  an  additional  $33,000,000.  These  figures 
are  not  given  as  accurate  in  any  particular,  but  they  are  sufficiently 
close  to  indicate  that  the  loss  to  the  quarantined  section  from  the 
cattle  tick  is  something  enormous.  Such  a  series  of  encumbrances  as 
those  recorded  could  be  carried  by  the  cattle  industry  of  no  other 
section  of  the  country  than  the  South,  whose  excellent  pastures, 
rich  soil,  and  salubrious  climate  are  the  only  reasons  for  its  ability 
to  overcome  such  obstacles  in  meeting  the  competition  of  the  West; 
and  it  is  the  inherent  capacity  of  the  South  for  greatly  increasing  its 
herds  and  enlarging  its  pasture  lands  that  makes  the  actual  loss 
even  secondary  to  the  potential  loss  from  restrictions  necessitated  by 
the  presence  of  the  cattle  tick.  This  potential  loss  may  be  described 
as  the  difference  between  the  value  of  the  cattle  industry  of  the  South 
to-day  and  the  extent  to  which  this  industry  would  be  increased  if 
farmers  and  ranchmen  were  assured  that  their  lands  and  cattle  would 
not  become  infested  with  fever  ticks.  Could  this  assurance  be  given, 
the  beneficial  effects  would  extend  over  the  entire  country,  because 
the  market  of  the  northern  breeder  Avould  thereby  become  greatly 
extended. 

These  appalling  losses  and  annual  sacrifices  of  the  cattle  raisers  of 
the  infected  district  can  be  entirely  effaced,  and  this  at  a  small  pro- 
portionate cost;  for,  with  enthusiastic  stockmen,  satisfactory  State 
legislation,  sufficient  money,  and  a  corps  of  trained  inspectors,  the 
cattle  tick  may  be  exterminated,  and  every  dollar  expended  in  this 
work  will  be  returned  many  fold  during  each  succeeding  year. 

The  so-called  period  of  incubation. — After  the  young  ticks  have 
attached  themselves  to  cattle  the  fever  appears  about  10  days  there- 
after, in  midsummer.  When  the  weather  is  cool,  as  in  autumji,  this 
period  may  be  a  little  longer.  The  actual  period  of  incubation  may 
be  shorter,  for  if  blood  from  a  case  of  Texas  fever  is  injected  into 
the  blood  vessels  of  healthy  cattle  the  fever  may  appear  within  five 
days.  When  cattle  graze  upon  pastures  over  which  southern  cattle 
have  passed,  the  time  when  the  disease  appears  varies  within  wide 
limits.  Wh^n  the  animals  have  been  put  upon  pastures  immediately 
after  southern  cattle  have  infected  them  with  ticks,  it  may  take  from 
30  to  60  days,  or  even  longer,  before  the  disease  appears.  This  will 
be  readily  understood  when  we  recall  the  life  history  of  ticks.  The 
southern  cattle  leave  only  matured  ticks  which  haA^e  dropped  from 
them.  These  must  lay  their  eggs  and  the  latter  must  be  hatched 
before  any  ticks  can  get  upon  native  cattle.  The  shortest  period  is 
thus  not  less  than  30  days  if  we  include  10  days  for  the  period  of 
incubation  after  the  young  ticks  have  attached  themseh'es  to  native 
cattle.     When  the  infection  of  pastures  with  ticks  has  taken  place 


TEXAS   FEVEK.  485 

early  in  the  season,  or  when  it  is  cold,  the  period  is  much  longer, 
because  it  takes  longer  for  the  eggs  to  hatch. 

If  native  cattle  are  placed  upon  pastures  which  have  been  infected 
with  ticks  some  time  before,  the  disease  will  appear  so  much  sooner, 
because  the  young  ticks  may  be  already  hatched  and  attack  the  cattle 
at  once.  It  will  be  evident,  therefore,  that  the  length  of  time  between 
the  exposure  of  native  cattle  on  infected  fields  and  the  appearance 
of  the  disease  depends  on  the  date  of  original  infection,  and  on  the 
weather,  whether  cold  or  hot.  AVhen  native  cattle  are  placed  upon 
fields  on  which  young  ticks  are  already  present,  they  will  show  the 
fever  in  13  to  15  days  if  the  season  is  hot. 

The  fever  appears  before  the  ticks  have  matured.  In  fact,  the}'  are 
still  small  enough  to  be  overlooked.  In  any  case  very  careful  search 
should  be  made  for  them  in  those  places  which  they  prefer — the 
thighs,  escutcheon,  and  udder.  After  the  acute  stage  of  the  fever  has 
passed  the  ticks  begin  to  swell  up  and  show  very  plainly.  (PI.  XLYI, 
figs.  6  and  7.) 

Prevention. — It  is  generally  accepted  that  if  southern  cattle  are 
entirely  free  from  that  species  of  tick  known  as  Mm^garopus  annu- 
latus  they  can  be  allowed  to  mingle  with  the  most  susceptible  animals 
without  danger.  Furthermore,  it  has  been  learned  from  the  study 
of  the  life  history  of  the  cattle  tick  and  from  that  fact  that  this  tick 
infests  pastures  only  transiently,  never  permanently,  and  will  not 
mature  except  upon  cattle  or  equines,  that  its  extermination  is 
possible,  and  that  the  disease  it  causes  may  be  prevented.  Therefore 
the  various  methods  with  these  results  in  view  should  be  directed 
toward  the  destruction  of  ticks  on  cattle  as  well  as  their  eradication 
from  the  pastures. 

The  details  of  these  methods  of  eradication  will  not  be  discussed 
here,  as  this  subject  is  fully  treated  in  Farmers'  Bulletin  498, 
"  Methods  of  Exterminating  the  Texas-fever  Tick,"  which  may  be 
obtained  free  upon  application  to  the  Department  of  Agriculture, 
Washington,  D.  C. 

METHODS   OF  ERADICATING  THE   TICKS. 

In  undertaking  measures  for  eradicating  the  tick  it  is  evident  that 
the  pest  may  be  attacked  in  two  locations,  namely,  on  the  pastiu-e 
and  on  the  cattle. 

In  freeing  pastures  the  method  followed  may  be  either  a  direct  or 
an  indirect  one.  The  former  consists  in  excluding  all  cattle,  horses, 
and  mules  from  pastures  until  all  the  ticks  have  died  from  starvation. 
The  latter  consists  in  permitting  the  cattle  and  other  animals'to  con- 
tinue on  the  infested  pasture  and  treating  them  at  regular  intervals 
with  agents  destructive  to  ticks  and  thus  preventing  engorged  females 
from  dropping  and  reinfesting  the  pasture.     The  larva?  on  the  pas- 


486 


DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 


ture,  or  those  which  hatch  from  eggs  laid  by  females  already  there, 
will  all  eventually  meet  death.  Such  of  these  as  get  upon  the  cattle 
from  time  to  time  will  be  destroyed  by  the  treatment,  while  those 
which  fail  to  find  a  host  will  starve  in  the  pasture. 

Animals  may  be  freed  of  ticks  in  two  ways.  They  may  be  treated 
with  an  agent  that  will  destroy  all  the  ticks  present,  or  they  may  be 
rotated  at  proper  intervals  on  tick-free  fields  until  all  the  ticks  have 
dropped. 

PASTUEE   ROTATION,    ETC. 

Time  required  to  hill  ticks  hy  starvation. — The  time  required  for 
the  ticks  to  die  out  after  all  animals  have  been  removed  from  infested 
fields  and  pastures  varies  considerably,  depending  principally  on 
climatic  and  weather  conditions.  The  dates  when  pastures  will  be 
free  of  ticks,  beginning  during  each  month  of  the  year,  are  given  in 
the  following  table : 

T'nnr  required  to  free  pastures  from  ticks  hy  starvation. 


Dale  of  removal  of  all  animals 
from  pasture. 


Julyl 

Aug.l 

Sept.l 

Oct.  1  to  Nov.  1,  inclusive 
Dec.  1 


Date  when  pas- 
ture will  be  free 
from  ticks. 


Mar.  1. 
May  1. 
July  1. 
Aug.  1. 
Aug.  15. 


Date  of  removal  of  all  animals 
from  pasture. 


Dec.  15  to  Mar.  15,  inclusive 

Apr.  1 

Apr.  15 

May  1  to  June  15,  inclusive. 


Date  when  pas- 
ture will  be  free 
from  ticks. 


Sept.  1. 
Sept.  15. 
Oct.  15. 
Nov.  1. 


The  table  above  is  based  on  investigations  b}''  Hunter  and  Hooker  ^ 
at  Dallas,  Tex.,  and  by  Graybill  ^  at  Auburn,  Ala.  All  the  periods 
obtained  bj^  Newell  and  Dougherty  (1906)^  in  work  carried  on  at 
Baton  Rouge,  La.,  which  is  much  farther  south,  are  shorter.  The 
periods  above  should  be  found  ample  for  all  localities  lying  no  far- 
ther north  than  Dallas,  Tex.,  or  Auburn,  Ala.  For  many  localities 
in  the  southern  part  of  the  infested  region  the  periods  necessary  to 
starve  out  an  infestation  are  no  doubt  somewhat  shorter  than  those 
gi^'en  above.  In  general,  moisture  and  cold  prolong  and  dryness  and 
heat  shorten  the  duration  of  an  infestation.  If  various  portions  of 
the  same  pasture  differ  with  regard  to  temperature  and  moisture,  as  is 
frequenth'^  the  case,  some  parts  become  free  of  ticks  before  others  do. 
Other  things  being  equal,  high,  dry,  unshaded  land  becomes  tick 
free  sooner  than  low,  damp,  shady  land. 

The  simplest  and  safest  plan  in  most  cases,  however,  is  to  follow 
the  foregoing  table  in  the  region  indicated  for  it.    It  is  probable  that 

^Bulletin  72,  Bureau  of  EntomoloKy,  TJ.  S.  Department  of  A{;iicnlture. 
'Bulletin  l.TO,   Bureau  of  Animal  Industry,  U.   S.   Department  of  Agriculture. 
'  Circular  10,  State  Crop  Pest  Commission  of  Louisiana. 


TEXAS   FEVER. 


487 


the  periods  given  in  the  table  should  be  lengthened  a  little  for  the 
northern  part  of  the  infested  region.  The  experiments  conducted 
thus  far  in  various  places  indicate  this,  and  it  will  place  the  eradica- 
tion work  in  that  region  on  the  safe  side.  For  example,  E.  C. 
Cotton^  obtained  at  Knoxville,  Tenn.,  records  for  September  and 
April  somewhat  longer  than  those  given  above.     They  are  as  follows : 

Cattle  removed  April  15;  pasture  free  of  ticks  November  13. 
Cattle  removed  September  15 ;  pasture  free  of  ticks  July  IS. 

In  localities  with  temperature  and  other  conditions  similar  to  those 
at  Knoxville,  Tenn.,  these  periods  should  l)e  followed. 

Time  required  to  render  cattle  free  of  ticks  'ichen  placed  on  unin- 
fested  fields. — Before  discussing  plans  for  rendering  farms  tick  free, 
involving  the  use  of  the  information  given  in  the  foregoing  table,  it 
will  be  necessary  to  indicate  how  animals  may  be  entirely  freed  from 
ticks  by  placing  them  on  uninfested  fields.  This  is  based  on  the  fact 
that  the  female  tick  must  drop  from  the  host  to  the  groimd  before 
eggs  can  be  laid  and  before  young  ticks  will  develop. 

The  shortest  time  in  which  seed  ticks  Avill  appear  after  engorged 
females  have  been  dropped  is  20  days.  Consequently  cattle  placed 
on  a  tick-free  field  during  the  warmer  part  of  the  year  are  not  in 
danger  of  becoming  infested  again  with  yoimg  ticks  until  20  days 
have  elapsed.  The  time  required  for  all  the  ticks  to  drop  after  cattle 
have  been  placed  on  uninfested  land  varies  with  the  temperature, 
being  much  longer  during  the  Avinter  than  during  the  summer.  The 
time  required,  beginning  at  various  times  of  the  3'ear,  is  given  in  the 
following  table : 

Tune  requirerJ  for  all  ficl-s  to  ciroi)  fro)>i  cattle  placed  on  tick-free  land. 


When  tickv  cattle  are  pl!ice<1.  oa 
tick-free  land  during — 


All  ticks  will 
have  dropped 


August Six  weeks. 

September Do. 

October  !  Eight  weeks. 

November j  Nine  weeks. 

January Ten  weeks. 

February \  Seven  weeks. 


M'hen  ticky  cattle  are  placed  on 
tick-free  land  during — 


i  March. 
I  April.. 
I  May... 
I  June. . 
i  July... 


All  ticks  will 

have  dropped 

in— 


Seven  weeks. 
Six  weeks. 

Do. 

Do. 
Fi\e  weeks. 


Freeing  cattle  of  ticks  hy  rotation  on  tick-free  land. — The  plan  of 
freeing  cattle  of  ticks  by  rotating  them  from  one  lot  or  field  to  an- 
other is  as  follows:  Beginning  at  any  time  from  Februar}'^  to  Sep- 
tember, inclusive,  the  cattle  are  removed  from  the  tick-infested  pas- 
ture to  a  tick-free  lot  or  field  and  kept  there  for  not  more  than  20 
days.  During  this  time  a  considerable  number  of  ticks  will  drop. 
In  order  to  prevent  the  cattle  from  becoming  reinfested   (by  seed 


*  Bulletin  81,  AgricuUiiral  Experiment  Station  of  the  University  of  Tennessee. 


488  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

ticks  resulting  from  eggs  laid  by  females  that  have  dropped),  the 
herd  is  then  changed  to  a  second  tick-free  inclosure  for  20  days 
longer,  and  if  they  are  not  free  of  ticks  by  that  time  they  are  placed 
in  a  third  tick-free  inclosure  for  20  days  more.  Should  the  two 
changes  after  intervals  of  20  days  have  been  made.  60  days  will  have 
elapsed,  which  is  ample  time  for  all  ticks  to  have  dropped  during 
the  portion  of  the  year  indicated,  and  the  animals  are  then  ready 
to  be  i^laced  on  a  tick-free  pasture  or  field  without  danger  of  be- 
coming reinfested.  The  periods  to  free  cattle  (given  in  the  above 
table)  are  believed  to  be  ample.  It  will,  however,  be  a  wise  precau- 
tion to  make  a  careful  examination  of  the  cattle  for  ticks  before 
placing  them  in  the  noninfested  field  they  are  to  occup)^ 

During  the  part  of  the  year  from  October  to  February,  inclusiA-e, 
the  time  required  for  seed  ticks  to  appear  after  females  have  dropped 
is  much  longer  than  the  time  necessary  for  all  the  ticks  to  drop  from 
cattle;  consequently,  if  it  is  desired,  the  herd  ma}^  be  continued  on 
the  same  field  for  the  required  length  of  time  without  danger  of 
becoming  reinfested. 

Freeing  hoth  cattle  and  pastures  of  tkhs  hy  the  rotation  method. — 
The  particular  scheme  of  rotation  to  be  followed  on  a  farm  depends 
much  on  the  conditions  which  have  to  be  met.  In  figures  1  to  4  four 
plans  of  rotation  are  represented.  In  these  diagrams  no  attempt, 
except  in  a  very  rough  way,  has  been  made  to  indicate  the  relative 
size  of  the  fields,  as  this  depends  on  the  number  of  cattle  and  on 
various  conditions  of  a  more  or  less  local  nature.  It  rests  with  the 
farmer  to  select  his  fields  with  regard  to  location  and  size  so  as  to 
carry  out  properly  and  successfully  the  plan  which  he  adopts. 

The  matter  of  the  dissemination  of  ticks  deserves  particular  atten- 
tion in  considering  rotation  methods.  The  engorged  females  which 
drop  on  a  pasture  will  crawl  at  most  oiAy  a  few  feet.  The  same  may 
be  said  of  the  larva?  or  seed  ticks.  It  is  possible,  however,  for  seed 
ticks  to  be  passively  carried  considerable  distances  at  times.  Dogs, 
cats,  and  other  animals  which  ordinarily  pass  unhindered  over  farms 
may  become  covered  with  seed  ticks  while  going  through  one  field, 
and  later  some  of  them  maA'  be  brushed  off  the  animal  while  passing 
through  the  herbage  of  an  adjoining  field.  Even  though  the  danger 
of  ticks  being  spread  in  this  manner  is  not  great,  it  will  be  Avell,  when 
p]-acticable,  to  take  precautions  against  it. 

Again,  engorged  females,  eggs,  and  seed  ticks  may  be  carried  by 
running  water  from  a  pasture  Avithout  injury  in  any  way.  The  dan- 
ger from  this  source  is  probably  greatest  where  there  are  many  small 
streams  subject  to  frequent  floods  of  short  duration  and  on  hillsides 
Avhere  the  Avater  runs  off  Avith  groat  force  during  lieavy  rains.  This 
will,  no  doubt,  in  some  localities  present  a  rather  serious  probk^n  in 
tick  eradication. 


TEXAS    FEVER. 


489 


Ticks  may  crawl  from  the  edge  of  one  pasture  into  an  adjoining 
pasture,  or  engorged  females  may  drop  from  the  heads  of  animals 
reaching  through  a  dividing  fence.  These  difficulties  are  best  over- 
come by  consti-ucting  a  double  fence  with  an  intervening  space  of 


FIELD  N0.2B. 
OCT.  12.  MOVE  THE  HERD. 
TO    FIELD  N0.3. 


OATSrOiLOWED  BY 

FOR/1  ce. 


fHEM 


FIELD  NO. 2 /I. 
SEPT22.M0VETHE 
HEFtD  TO  FIELD 
NO  2  B. 


FIELD   NO. 3. 
CORN. 

COlVPE/fS. 


NO  I/.  I.  MOVE  THE  HERD  TO 
FIELD  NO.  I A 


FIELD  NO.  4-. 
COTTON. 
HYE  OR  CRIMSON 

CLOVE  n 


HOUSE 


P/ISrURE:     BERMUO/1  ,VET,CH,flND    BUR  CLOVER 


FIELD  NO.I  B. 
SETFT  2.  MOVE  THE  HERD  TO  FIELD 
NO. 2/1.    KEEP  OUT  ALL  RNIM/iLS 
UNTIL   JULY  I,  WHEN  THIS  FIELD 
WILL  BE  FREE  OFTICt^iS  AND  THE 
TEMPOnmY  DOUBLE  FENCE  MfiV  BE 
REMO\yEO. 


FIELD  NO.  I  /?. 
JUNE  15.  MOVE  THE  HERD  TO  FIELD 
NO.IB.    KEEP  OUT ^LLflNIMffLS 
FROM  THISD/)TE  UNTIL   NOV.I.I^HEN 
THI^    FIELD  UJILL  BE  FHEE  OFTWn^. 


Fn:.   1. — I'lan  for  freeini^  cattlt>  and  pasturos  from   ticks  by  rotation,   r<■(lvlirin^'  four  and 

one-lialf  months. 

15  feet.  Such  a  fence,  if  the  land  does  not  slope  greatly,  also  greatly 
reduces  the  danger  of  ticks  being  washed  by  rain  from  one  pasture  to 
the  other. 

Plan  requiring  four  and  one-half  months. — The  plan  of  rotation 
represented  in  figure  1  requires  four  and  a  half  months  for  its  com- 


490  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

pletion.  Some  time  during  the  spring  the  pasture  is  divided  in  the 
middle  by  two  lines  of  temporary  fence  15  feet  apart.  The  herd  is 
first  confined  in  field  No.  lA.  On  June  15  it  is  moved  from  this  por- 
tion of  the  pasture  to  the  other  portion,  designated  field  No.  IB,  and 
on  September  2  is  moved  to  field  No.  2A.  The  cattle  are  permitted 
to  remain  20  days  on  each  of  the  fields  designated  2A,  2B,  and  3. 
At  the  end  of  this  time  (Nov.  1)  all  the  ticks  on  the  cattle  have 
dropped,  and  the  herd  is  returned  to  field  No.  lA,  which  in  the 
meantime  has  become  free  of  ticks.  Later,  if  it  is  desired,  the  cattle 
may  be  placed  in  field  No.  4.  Tliey  should  not,  however,  be  returned 
to  any  of  the  other  fields  or  driven  across  them,  as  these  are  infested 
with  ticks.  Field  No.  IB  will  be  free  from  ticks  July  1  of  the  fol- 
lowing year,  at  which  time  the  temporary  double  fence  may  be  re- 
moved and  the  cattle  allowed  to  graze  over  the  entire  pasture.  The 
rest  of  the  farm  will  be  free  of  ticks  by  August  1.  If  found  desirable, 
the  herd  may  be  continued  longer  in  field  No.  3,  even  as  late  as  Feb- 
ruarj^  15,  the  only  objection  to  this  being  that  it  will  break  the  crop 
rotation  by  preventing  the  sowing  of  oats  in  the  fall. 

It  is  well,  when  practicable,  to  have  double  fences  with  an  inter- 
vening space  of  15  feet  between  the  difi^erent  fields  in  order  to  pre- 
vent the  ticks  from  getting  from  one  field  to  another.  If  this  is  not 
possible  on  account  of  the  expense  and  time  required  to  build  the 
extra  line  of  fence,  the  next  best  thing  is  to  plow  several  furrows  on 
each  side  of  the  dividing  fences. 

When  there  are  streams  running  through  the  farm  or  the  slope  of 
the  land  is  considerable,  so  that  ticks  maj^  be  washed  from  one  field 
to  the  other  during  rains,  the  fields  should  be  so  arranged  or  selected 
that  the  drainage  is  from  field  No.  lA  to  No.  IB,  and  from  field  No. 
3  toward  fields  Nos.  2A  and  2B. 

Plan  requiring  eight  tnonths. — The  plan  indicated  in  figure  2  Is 
begun  fifteen  days  later  than  the  preceding  one  and  requires  eight 
months  for  its  completion.  The  pasture  is  divided  as  before.  The 
herd  is  moved  July  1  from  field  No.  lA  to  No.  IB,  and  on  October 
15  is  moved  from  there  to  field  No.  2.  The  herd  may  be  continued 
on  fields  Nos.  2  and  3  until  February  15  in  any  way  found  most 
convenient,  as  there  is  no  danger  of  young  ticks  hatching  during 
that  time.  The  herd  is  moved  not  later  than  February  15  to  field 
No.  4.  All  the  ticks  on  the  cattle  will  have  dropped  by  December 
20,  consequently  the  herd  may  be  moved  to  field  No.  4  as  early  as 
that  date,  if  found  desirable. 

By  March  1  the  original  pasture  is  free  and  the  cattle  are  returned 
there.  Field  No.  IB  will  be  free  of  ticks  by  August  1,  at  which  time 
the  double  fence  separating  the  two  parts  of  the  pasture  may  be 
removed.     The  re.st  of  the  farm  will  not  be  certainlv  free  of  ticks 


TEXAS   FEVEB. 


491 


until  September  1.     The  drainage  in  general  should  be  from  field  No. 
lA  toward  No.  IB,  and  from  field  No.  4  toward  field  No.  2. 

Plan  requiring  four  months^  with  a  new  pasture. — The  plan  of 
rotation  represented  in  figure  3  involves  changing  the  location  of  the 


HELD  NO.  2. 

0/fT3. 

COU/PEAS  AND 
ei/RCLOV/ER. 

FIELD  N0.3. 

CORN. 

FIELD  NO.^. 

COTTON. 
HYE  flNO 
h/INTEFt  LEGUMEo. 

MOVE  HffiO  TO  FietO 
NO.  3. 

C/iULC  l^tLLBE  FREE 
OFTICK^S  BY  DEC.  20 
BETWEEN  THIS  DATE 
AND  FEBR.I5  MOVE  THE 
HERO  TO  FIELD   NO.'h 

nflR.I.  MOVE  THE  HERD 
TO  FIELQ  NO.  IB. 

IMMIM 

1 

I 

•     —      ■-       1      r  ■- 
PEFiMfiNENT  I      1  P/iSTURE. 
1      « 

OCT.  15.  MC 

FIELD    NO.I 

?l/£  THE  HERl 

NO.  2.. 

:>  TO  FIELD     '       \iJUlYl.MQ\JEH 

\      \KEEP  ALL  A 

1  FIELD  UNTIL 

1  FFiEE  or  TIC 

1 

1       1 

FIELD  NO.  1  /?. 
ERD  TO  PASTURE  NO.I 
NIMflLS  OUT  OnHIS 
NRR.I.IrJUEN  IT.MLL 
AS. 

B. 
BE 

Fig. 


-Plan  for  frepinr  catlle  and  pastures  from  ticks  by  rotation,   roqiiirinsc  eight 
months. 


pasture.  The  oat  field  (field  No.  4)  after  the  grain  has  been  har- 
vested is  reserved  for  this  purpose.  It  should  be  sown  in  cowpeas, 
Bermuda  grass,  and  bur  clover.  The  herd  is  moved  October  15 
from  the  original  pasture,  field  No.  1,  to  field  No.  2.  where  it  may  be 


492 


DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 


kept  for  a  month  or  two,  or  until  the  feed  becomes  short,  then  moved 
to  field  No.  3,  where  it  is  kept  until  February  15,  when  it  is  moved 
to  the  new  pasture,  field  No.  4.  The  old  pasture  may  be  planted  in 
oats.     The  drainage  should  be  from  field  No.  4  toward  field  No.  2. 


FIELD  N0.2. 

CORN. 

COt^PEflS. 


MOVE  THE  HERD  FROM 

THI6  FIELD  TO  FIELD 

N0.3. 


FIELD  N0.3. 

COTTON  FOLLOWED 
0y  CRIMSON  CLOVEH,  VETCH, 
BUR  CLOVER   OR  R^E. 


FEBFI.  I5.M0VETHCHERD 
TO  FIEUD  NO.  4-. 


FIELD  NO.^. 

ORT^., 

COU/PE/IS, 
BERMUD/I, 

BUR  cLoi/en. 


BECOMES  THE  NEW 
P/ISTU8E. 


FIELD  NO.  I. 
P/ISTUnE. 
OCT  I5:M01/£  HERD  TO  FIELD  NO.Z. 
PL/INT   IN    O/IT'5    fiNO    FOLLOW  l^/ITH    COl^PEfl^. 


Fi.;. 


-Plan  for  fi-p(':i)s  cattle  and  pastures  from  ticks  by  rotation,   requiring'   four 
luonths,  witli  aew  pasture. 


The  feed-lot  or  so'dhuj  m-etlwdy  requb-inr/  fom-  and  oiie-h(df 
months. — In  the  plan  given  in  figure  4  the  feed-lot  or  soiling  method 
is  made  use  of  to  free  the  cattle  of  ticks.  In  the  spring  fi<dd  No.  '^B, 
located  near  the  farmyard,  is  sown  in  corn  for  a  soiling  crop.  The 
area  devoted  to  corn  should  be  sufficient  to  supply  feed  for  the  herd 


TEXAS    FEVER. 


493 


for  five  or  six  Aveeks.  Field  No.  3A,  after  the  oats  are  harvested, 
should  be  sown  in  sorghum  and  cowpeas  or  millet  and  cowpeas,  and 
should  be  large  enough  to  furnish  feed  for  the  herd  until  November 
1.  These  fields  should  not  have  had  cattle  on  them  for  at  least  10 
months. 


FIELD  N0.4r 
COFfN. 


FIELD  NO.3/1.  , 

O^T^S.  r 

SOPGHUM  AND  COh^PEJIS.  I 

OR  ' 

MILLET  /I ND COl^P£/IS. 


NOULnETUBN HERD  TO  PASTURE 


FIELD  N0.3B. 
DRILLED  CORN  FOR  SOILING  CROP. 


FIELD  NO. 2. 
COTTON. 
COWPEfld. 


HOUSE 


FIELD     NO.  I. 
^  P/JSTURE. 

JUNE  15.  MOI/E  HERD  TO  LO  T  NO.  I. 
KEEP /ILL /INIM/ILS  OUT  OF  THI6  FIELD  UNTI L  NOL^.  I,IVHEN  IT  IVILL 
BE  FREE   OF  TICK^. 


Fig.  4.- 


-I'lan  for  freeing  cattle  and  pasluros  from  ticks  by  rotation;  feed-lot  or  soillnj 

method. 


Prior  to  June  15  three  lots,  each  large  enough  to  accommodate 
the  herd,  are  fenced  off  in  field  No.  3B.  These  lots  should  not  be 
on  a  stream,  and  the  drainage  should  be  from  field  Xo.  3A  toward 
field  No.  3B.  There  should  be  a  space  of  15  feet  or  more  between 
the  lots.    On  June  15  the  herd  is  moved  to  lot  No.  1,  and  afterwards 


494  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

to  lots  Nos.  2  and  3  at  intervals  of  20  days.  After  the  cattle  have 
spent  the  required  time  in  lots  Nos.  1  and  2,  if  it  is  found  after  a 
careful  examination  made  bj''  some  one  familiar  with  such  work  that 
the  cattle  are  free  of  ticks,  they  may  be  turned  directly  into  field 
No.  3A.  If  they  are  not  free  they  should  be  placed  in  lot  No.  3 
until  they  are  free,  or,  if  this  can  not  be  determined  with  certainty, 
until  15  or  20  days  more  have  elapsed,  which  will  be  much  longer 
than  ncessary  for  all  ticks  to  drop  during  July  and  August. 

If  desirable,  the  corn  in  each  lot  may  be  cut  and  removed  before 
the  cattle  are  placed  in  it.  As  soon  as  possible  after  the  cattle  are 
removed  from  a  lot  the  female  ticks  and  eggs  present  on  the  ground 
should  be  plowed  under  and  the  ground  along  the  fence  sprayed 
with  crude  petroleum  or  some  other  disinfectant  to  prevent  any  seed 
ticks  which  may  hatch  from  getting  beyond  the  area  of  the  lot. 
Another  valuable  precaution  will  be  to  use  for  feed,  so  far  as  pos- 
sible, the  corn  opposite  or  in  advance  of  the  lot  in  which  the  cattle 
are  located,  as  this  is  less  liable  to  harbor  seed  ticks. 

The  pasture  will  be  free  of  ticks  by  November  1,  and  the  cattle 
may  then  be  returned  there  if  desired.  The  herd  may,  however,  be 
kept  on  field  No.  3A  as  long  after  that  date  as  the  forage  lasts,  or, 
in  case  of  a  shortage  of  feed  before  November  1,  it  ma)''  be  moved 
to  either  field  No.  2  or  4,  provided  one  of  them  is  ready  for  pastur- 
age. These  fields  may  be  used  for  fall  and  winter  pasturage  in  any 
way  that  may  be  found  desirable. 

DIPPING,    SPRAYING,    AND    HAND    DRESSING. 

Ticlvs  upon  cattle  may  be  destroyed  by  using  various  "  tickicides," 
such  as  oils,  arsenic,  etc.  These  may  be  applied  in  three  ways, 
namely,  by  hand,  by  the  use  of  spray  pumps,  and  by  means  of  the 
dipping  vat. 

Hand  application  is  practicable  only  when  a  few  animals  are  to  be 
treated.  The  substances  of  value  in  this  method  are  a  mixture  of 
lard  and  kerosene,  cotonseed  oil,  or  a  half-and-half  mixture  of 
cottonseed  oil  and  kerosene,  and  finally,  crude  petroleum.  Any  of 
these  may  be  applied  with  a  mop  or  a  good-sized  paint  brush,  but 
unless  great  pains  are  taken  this  method  of  treatment  is  not  thor- 
ough, and  even  at  the  best  some  portions  of  the  body  where  ticks 
may  be  located  will  be  missed.  If  crude  petroleum  is  used,  care  must 
be  observed  in  its  application,  as  cattle  are  liable  to  be  injured  by  it, 
particularly  in  hot  weather. 

Spraying  is  advisable  only  in  cases  in  which  there  are  but  a  few 
animals  to  be  treated,  and  when  impossible  to  obtain  facilities  for 
dipping  them.     The  arsenical  mixture  or  the  crude  petroleum  or 


TEXAS   FEVER.  495 

emulsions  of  the  same  may  be  applied  by  means  of  an  ordinary  pail 
spraying  pump.     (Fig.  5.) 

Dipping  in  a  vat  is  on  the  whole  the  best  and  cheapest  method  of 
treating  cattle  for  the  destruction  of  ticks. 

Dipping  in  a  vat. — Farms  and  pastures  may  be  freed  of  ticks  by 
treating  all  cattle  regularly  every  two  to  three  weeks  with  an  effective 


Fig.  5. — Pail  spraying  pump  for  small  herds. 


tick-destroj'ing  agent.  If  the  treatment  is  applied  with  such  suc- 
cess as  to  destroy  all  ticks  that  reach  the  cattle  from  time  to  time, 
thus  preventing  any  engorged  females  from  dropping  on  the  pasture 
after  the  beginning  of  the  treatment,  the  pasture  will  become  free 
of  ticks  after  the  same  period  of  time  has  elapsed  as  would  have  been 
required  if  all  animals  had  been  excluded,  beginning  on  the  same 
date;  that  is,  a  perfectly  successful  treatment  would  be  practically 


496  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

the  same  as  the  complete  exchision  of  the  herd.  The  dates  on  which 
the  starving  out  of  an  infestation  will  be  effected  when  begun  at 
various  times  of  the  year  have  already  been  given  in  the  table  on 
page  486.  In  actual  practice,  however,  as  some  ticks  may  escape 
and  reinfest  the  pasture,  the  time  necessary  to  accomplish  eradication 
may  be  somewhat  prolonged  beyond  the  periods  indicated  in  the 
table.  This  method  offers  the  advantage  that  the  pasture  may  be 
used  continuously,  and  is  the  one  usually  followed. 

Many  efforts  have  been  made  to  discover  a  practical  method  for 
dipping  cattle  to  destroy  ticks  without  injury  to  the  cattle,  and  the 
bureau  has  experimented  for  years  with  this  object  in  view.  Numer- 
ous kinds  of  dips  have  been  used,  and  many  failures  have  been 
recorded,  but  finally  a  very  satisfactory  dip  has  been  discovered  in 
an  arsenical  solution,  and  arsenical  dips,  in  fact,  are  now  the  only 
kind  used  in  tick  eradication. 

Preparation  and  vse  of  arsenical  dips} — The  formula  commonly 
used  in  making  an  arsenical  dip  is  as  follows : 

Sodium  carbonate   (sal  soda) pounds__  24 

Arsenic  trioxid   (wliite  arsenic) do —  8 

Pine  tar sallon__  1 

Water  sufficient  to  make  500  gallons. 

Put  25  gallons  of  water  into  a  kettle  or  tank  of  40  to  50  gallons 
capacity,  heat  to  boiling,  and  add  the  sal  soda.  When  this  has  dis- 
solved add  the  white  arsenic,  then  boil  and  stir  for  15  minutes  or 
longer,  until  the  white  arsenic  has  entirely  disappeared.  Cool  to 
140°  F.  (by  the  addition  of  cold  water  if  desired),  then  pour  in  the 
pine  tar  in  a  thin  stream  while  constantly  and  vigorousl}'  stirring  the 
.solution.  Immediately  empty  the  liquid  into  the  dipping  vat,  which 
has  already  been  three-fourths  filled  with  water,  and  stir  thoroughly. 

A  by-product  of  the  action  of  sodium  carbonate  on  white  arsenic 
is  the  gas  carbon  dioxid.  The  escape  of  this  gas  is  attended  with  con- 
siderable foaming  of  the  solution,  so  the  kettle  must  be  generously 
large,  and  the  operation  of  boiling  must  liaA'e  constant  watching  to 
prevent  the  liquid  from  frothing  over  the  edge  of  the  kettle. 

The  kettle  or  tank,  utensils,  and  materials  must  be  perfectly  free 
from  all  greasy  or  oily  substances,  as  a  small  quantity  of  such  matter 
is  sufficient  to  form  a  coating  OA^er  the  arsenic,  and  thus  to  prevent 
or  delay  its  solution. 

The  boiled  dip  may  be  made  perfectly  well  with  very  hard  water, 
but  in  that  case  some  residue  of  a  fine  white  or  gray  powder  will  be 
left  undissolved  after  boiling.  This  residue  carries  no  arsenic,  but 
arises  from  the  action  of  the  sodium  carbonate  upon  compounds, 
chiefly  of  lime,  in  the  water.     Examination  of  the  liquid  after  boil- 

1  Tor  fuller  information  relative  to  tlio  proparation  of  arsonie  dips,  soo  Farmers' 
Bulletin  603. 


TEXAS    FEVEK.  497 

ing  for  a  few  minutes  with  the  soda  before  the  arsenic  has  been  added 
will  show  how  much  residue  may  be  expected  from  this  source. 

In  order  that  dipping  in  arsenic  may  be  both  efficacious  in  destroy- 
ing ticks  and  also  harmless  to  the  cattle  at  all  times,  it  is  of  the 
greatest  importance  that  the  dij)  be  of  the  proper  strength,  and  that 
so  far  as  practicable  it  be  maintained  at  that  strength.  Due  care  in 
making  the  dip  and  in  calculating  the  capacity  of  the  vat  will,  of 
course,  assure  the  correct  initial  strength  of  the  dip.  Providing  the 
vat  with  a  waterproof  cover  will  do  much  to  maintain  the  dip  at  its 
proper  strength  by  preventing,  on  the  one  hand,  concentration  by 
evaporation,  and,  on  the  other  hand,  dilution  by  rains.  A  cover  will 
also  reduce  the  risk  of  cattle  being  poisoned  between  dippings,  espe- 
cially when  the  vat  is  not  protected  by  a  fence.  During  rains  the 
water  from  the  draining  pen  and  chute  should  not  be  permitted  to 
run  into  the  vat  and  dilute  the  dip. 

Precautions  in  the  use  of  arsenic. — Because  of  the  fact  that  arsenic 
is  a  poison,  great  care  should  be  observed  in  caring  for  it  after  it  is 
purchased  from  the  druggist,  in  order  that  persons  and  animals  may 
not  be  accidentally  poisoned.  The  dip  at  the  time  it  is  being  made 
a^d  also  after  it  is  diluted  should  be  handled  and  protected  as  a 
poison.  Unless  such  precautions  are  observed  accidents  are  very 
liable  to  occur.  When,  however,  arsenic  is  handled  with  the  proper 
care,  there  is  no  more  danger  in  its  use  on  the  farm  than  in  the  use 
of  a  number  of  other  poisons  that  are  commonly  and  regularly  used 
by  farmers  for  destroying  insect  pests  of  plants  and  obnoxious 
rodents. 

Persons  using  the  dip,  especially  with  the  spray  pump,  should  not 
subject  their  hands  and  other  portions  of  the  body  (by  permitting 
their  clothing  to  become  wet)  to  the  action  of  the  dip  any  more  than 
is  necessary,  and  it  is  well  to  wash  the  hands  thoroughly  after  each 
spraying,  especially  when  they  are  frequently  exposed  to  the  dip. 
At  the  time  the  dip  is  being  prepared,  care  should  be  observed  not  to 
inhale  the  vapor  arising  from  the  caldron  or  kettle,  and  during 
spraying  the  same  precaution  should  be  exercised  against  the  inhala- 
tion of  the  spray. 

In  making  the  dip,  weights  and  measures  should  not  be  guessed  at, 
and  the  arsenic  especially  should  be  weighed  with  the  greatest  care. 

Cattle  should  always  be  watered  a  short  time  before  they  are 
dipped.  After  they  emerge  from  the  vat  they  should  be  kept  on  a 
draining  floor  until  the  dip  ceases  to  run  from  their  bodies ;  then  they 
should  be  left  in  a  yard  free  of  vegetation  until  they  are  entirely 
dry.  If  cattle  are  allowed  to  drain  in  places  where  pools  of  dip 
collect,  from  which  they  may  drink,  or  if  they  are  turned  at  once  on 
the  pasture,  where  the  dip  will  run  from  their  bodies  on  the  grass 
and  other  vegetation,  losses  are  liable  to  result.  Crowding  the  ani- 
33071°— 16 32 


498  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

mals  before  they  are  dry  should  also  be  prevented,  and  they  should 
not  be  driven  any  considerable  distance  within  a  week  after  dipping, 
especially  in  hot  weather.  If  many  repeated  treatments  are  given, 
the  cattle  should  not  be  treated  of  tener  than  every  two  weeks. 

In  addition  to  properly  protecting  vats  containing  arsenical  dip 
when  not  in  use,  caution  must  also  be  observed  when  vats  are  to  be 
emptied  for  cleaning.  The  dip  should  not  be  poured  or  allowed  to 
flow  on  land  and  vegetation  to  which  cattle  or  other  animals  have 
access.  The  best  plan  is  to  run  the  dip  into  a  pit  properly  protected 
by  fences.  The  dip  should  also  not  be  deposited  where  it  may  be 
carried  by  seepage  into  wells  or  springs  which  supply  water  used  on 
the  farm. 

Crude  petroleuTn. — Various  kinds  of  crude  petroleum  and  emulsions 
of  it  have  been  used  with  more  or  less  success  in  destroying  ticks,  but 
on  account  of  the  difficulty  of  obtaining  suitable  grades  of  oil  and  the 
liability  of  injury  to  cattle,  their  use  has  been  practically  abandoned. 

Method  of  dipping. — The  method  usually  adopted  in  dipping  cattle 
is  to  construct  a  narrow  swimming  tank  with  a  chute  at  one  end  for 
the  entrance  of  the  cattle,  and  a  sloping  exit  at  the  other  end  when 
the  cattle  emerge  after  passing  through  the  vat.  (SeePl.  XLIX,fig. 
2. )  A  drip  chute,  or  floor,  is  connected  with  the  exit,  Avhere  the  excess 
of  dip  is  allowed  to  drip  off  the  animals  and  to  drain  into  the  vat. 
Plans  and  specifications  for  installing  dipping  plants  are  published 
in  Bureau  of  Animal  Industry  Circular  207,  which  may  be  obtained 
from  this  department. 

IMMUNIZATION  OF  SUSCEPTIBLE   CATTLE. 

By  hlood  inocyZation. — It  is  often  desirable  to  ship  well-bred  cattle 
into  infested  districts  that  they  may  be  used  to  improve  the  quality 
of  the  native  cattle  already  there.  Prior  to  the  discovery  of  the  cause 
of  Texas  fever  it  was  found  to  be  well-nigh  impossible  to  introduce 
purebred  cattle  from  the  North  into  any  of  the  infected  regions 
without  suffering  great  loss — sometimes  as  high  as  90  per  cent — 
within  a  few  months  of  their  arrival  at  their  southern  destination. 
At  first  it  was  thought  that  the  fatalities  were  due  to  climatic 
changes,  but  later  the  discovery  was  made  that  Texas  fever  was  caus- 
ing these  numerous  deaths. 

It  has  now  been  found  practicable  to  immunize  this  class  of  cattle 
so  perfectly  that  the  losses  which  follow  their  transportation  to  a 
tick-infested  region  are  reduced  to  a  minimum.  So  far  as  possible, 
young  animals  6  to  15  months  old  should  be  selected  for  this  pur- 
pose, as  they  are  more  readily  immunized  than  adults,  are  more  easily 
handled,  and  the  dangers  which  may  arise  from  pregnancy  while 
undergoing  the  immunizing  treatment  are  thus  avoided. 


TEXAS   FEVER.  499 

Immunity  in  these  cattle  is  obtained  by  introducing  the  micro- 
parasite  of  the  blood  into  their  systems.  It  may  be  done  by  direct 
artificial  inoculation  or  by  placing  virulent  young  ticks  upon  the 
nnimals  and  allowing  them  to  perform  the  inoculation  in  the  natural 
manner.  The  subcutaneous  injection  of  a  small  quantity  of  defibri- 
nated  virulent  blood  has  been  found,  by  means  of  prolonged  experi- 
ment, the  preferable  method,  as  the  number  of  microorganisms  in- 
troduced can  be  more  accurately  gaged  from  the  syringe  than  by 
allowing  the  infection  to  be  produced  by  bites  of  ticks.  Two  or  three 
inoculations,  if  repeated  after  proper  intervals,  are  accomplished 
with  greater  safety  to  the  animal  than  would  be  possible  by  means  of 
a  single  inoculation.  The  quantity  first  injected  should  be  small  and 
then  gradually  increased  in  the  succeeding  treatments. 

The  inoculation  always  results  in  a  more  or  less  serious  attack  of 
Texas  fever.  Besides  having  a  fever,  there  is  great  diminution  of 
red  blood  corpuscles,  and  in  about  3  per  cent  of  the  cases  a  fatal 
termination ;  but  the  proportion  of  deaths  resulting  from  the  inocu- 
lation is  small  when  compared  with  the  fatalities  among  untreated 
animals  taken  into  infested  districts.  To  this  number  should  be 
added  those  animals  (less  than  7  per  cent)  that  do  not  receive  sufficient 
immunity  by  this  method  and  which  succumb  when  exposed  to  in- 
fested pastures.  Combining  these  failures  it  will  be  seen  that  by  this 
method  of  immunization,  instead  of  a  loss  of  90  per  cent  among 
breeding  stock  taken  South  more  than  90  per  cent  can  be  saved.  The 
animals  should  be  carefully  nursed  through  the  attack  and  their 
symptoms  treated  as  indicated  on  page  502, 

Immunizing  inoculations  are  now  being  made  by  the  veterinarians 
of  most  of  the  agricultural  experiment  stations  of  the  Southern 
States  without  cost  for  the  services  rendered,  a  charge  being  made 
merely  for  the  actual  value  of  food  consumed  and  attendants'  wages. 
These  veterinarians  have  also  issued  station  bulletins  which  describe 
fully  the  necessary  steps  to  be  taken  in  obtaining  the  blood  and  in- 
jecting it  into  the  animals  to  be  immunized,  so  that  the  stock  owner 
may  follow  the  instructions  with  prospects  of  getting  good  results. 

This  operation  is  not  a  difficult  one,  and  excellent  results  will  fol- 
low when  absolute  cleanliness  and  ordinary  care  have  been  used,  but 
undoubtedly  the  best  results  will  be  obtained  by  those  who  have 
thoroughly  familiarized  themselves  with  the  nature  of  the  disease 
and  are  experienced  in  extracting  blood  from  animals.  Two  methods 
are  in  use  and  will  be  described  separately.  One  consists  in  drawing 
the  blood  from  the  jugular  vein  of  an  immune  animal  and  immedi- 
ately injecting  it  into  the  cattle  to  be  immunized.  It  is  compara- 
tively simple,  requires  few  instruments,  and  can  be  satisfactorily 
carried  out  when  a  small  number  of  animals  are  to  be  immunized 
and  if  a  suitable  immune  animal  is  close  at  hand.    First,  select  an 


500  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

immune  animal  which  is  in  good  health  and  which  is  infested  with 
fever  ticks  or  had  them  the  preceding  year.  Fasten  the  animal  se- 
curely, either  by  tying,  throwing,  or  by  placing  in  a  chute.  Clip  the 
hair  from  a  space  about  4  inches  in  diameter  over  the  jugular  vein 
on  the  upper  third  of  the  neck,  wash  the  skin  thoroughly  with  a.  5 
per  cent  solution  of  carbolic  acid,  and  then  fasten  a  strap  or  rope 
around  the  neck  below  the  hairless  area  and  draw  it  tight  in  order 
that  the  blood  in  the  vein  may  be  stopped,  causing  distension.  With 
a  large,  hypodermic-syringe  needle,  previously  sterilized  in  a  5  per 
cent  carbolic-acid  solution,  puncture  the  vein  at  a  slight  angle,  direct- 
ing the  point  forward.  When  the  needle  enters  the  vein  the  point 
can  be  rotated  freely  in  contrast  to  the  restricted  movements  if  still 
in  the  tissues,  and  the  blood  will  either  drop  or  flow  from  the  opening 
in  the  needle.  Attach  the  disinfected  syringe  to  the  needle  with 
piston  in  and  gradually  draw  out  the  piston  until  the  chamber  of 
the  syringe  is  full  of  blood,  when  the  needle  is  withdrawn.  The 
blood,  before  it  has  had  time  to  clot,  is  immediately  injected  into  the 
animals  to  be  immunized  and  which  have  been  previously  tied  or 
restrained,  the  hair  clipped,  and  the  skin  disinfected  at  the  seat  of 
injection  in  the  region  of  the  shoulder.  From  a  yearling  in  fair  con- 
dition a  pint  of  blood  may  be  taken  without  harm,  while  double  this 
quantity  may  be  taken  from  a  2-year-old,  and  four  or  five  times  as 
much  from  a  3-year-old  or  upward.  Inject  then  from  1  to  3  cubic 
centimeters,  according  to  the  age  of  the  animal,  under  the  skin  of 
each  animal  until  the  blood  is  exhausted.  When  more  animals  are 
to  be  inoculated  than  one  syringeful  will  inject,  the  operation  may  be 
repeated  in  the  same  manner.  The  only  objection  to  this  method  is 
the  possibility  of  the  blood  clotting  in  the  sja-inge,  but  with  practice 
and  promptness  this  can  easily  be  prevented. 

The  second  method  is  better  suited  for  the  inoculation  of  a  large 
number  of  cattle  or  where  the  immune  animal  is  at  a  distance  from 
the  cattle  to  be  immunized. 

The  preliminar}''  steps — the  clipping  of  the  hair,  disinfection  of 
the  skin,  placing  the  rope  around  the  neck  to  distend  the  jugular 
vein,  and  restraining  the  animal — are  the  same  as  for  the  first  method. 
In  puncturing  the  vein  it  is  advisable  to  use  a  small  trocar  and  can- 
nula after  sterilizing  in  a  5  per  cent  carbolic-acid  solution,  and,  when 
the  vein  has  been  entered,  to  draw  out  the  trocar,  allowing  the  blood 
to  flow  through  the  cannula  attached  to  a  rubber  tube  into  a  perfectly 
clean  and  sterile  vessel  containing  a  5  per  cent  solution  of  citrate  of 
potassium  or  sodium,  to  prevent  the  coagulation  of  the  blood.  The 
quantity  of  citrate  solution  in  the  container  should  be  one-twentieth 
of  the  quantity  of  blood  which  it  is  desired  to  collect.  After  sufficient 
blood  has  been  drawn  for  the  animals  to  be  injected,  a  cork  is  phu^ed 
in  the  top  of  the  bottle  through  which  passes  a  long  rubber  tubing. 


TEXAS    FEVER.  501 

At  the  other  end  of  this  tubing  is  a  needle  and  in  the  middle  is  a  T 
joint  with  a  syringe  at  the  stem,  of  the  T.  By  the  use  of  valves  at 
this  joint  the  withdrawal  of  the  syringe  piston  pulls  the  blood  from 
the  bottle,  and  the  insertion  of  the  piston  with  closure  of  the  opposite 
valve  ejects  the  blood  from  the  needle.  The  citrated  blood  is  inocu- 
lated under  the  disinfected  skin  of  the  animals  to  be  immunized,  as 
in  the  first  method.  This  blood  may  be  kept  in  a  dark,  cool  place 
for  one  or  more  months  without  deteriorating  and  may  be  shipped  to 
other  points  for  use. 

The  i^lace  where  this  injection  is  made  is  immaterial,  but  for  con- 
venience a  point  just  behind  the  shoulder  is  usually  chosen.  The  dose 
and  number  of  injections  vary  with  the  individual  animals.  "When 
a  large  number  of  cattle  are  to  be  inoculated  a  special  form  of  syringe 
devised  by  Pound,  of  Queensland,  may  be  used.  The  syringe  is  so 
arranged  by  means  of  tubes  and  valves,  that  by  simply  pulling  out 
the  piston  of  the  syringe  and  pushing  it  in  again  the  correct  amount 
of  blood  is  drawn  up  from  the  bottle  and  injected  through  the  needle 
into  the  animal,  thus  obviating  the  necessity  of  continually  filling  the 
syringe  and  measuring  out  the  dose. 

As  a  rule  it  maybe  stated  that  1  cubic  centimeter  should  be  injected 
into  an  old  animal  coming  into  the  infested  district,  2  cubic  centi- 
meters for  a  2-year-old,  and  3  cubic  centimeters  for  an  animal  9  to 
15  months  old.  It  will  be  observed  that,  unlike  the  usual  custom  of 
applying  treatment,  the  older  animals  take  less  than  the  young  ones, 
owing  to  their  greater  susceptibility  to  the  disease.  When  an  animal 
has  reacted  well  to  a  first  injection  and  shows  a  very  high  tempera- 
ture, great  reduction  of  red  blood  cells,  or  other  symptoms  indicative 
of  reaction,  it  will  not  be  necessary  to  repeat  the  injection,  but  in  those 
cases  in  which  the  reaction  is  slight,  a  second  injection  should  follow 
after  an  interval  of  40  days,  and,  if  need  be,  a  third  injection  after 
a  similar  lapse  of  time,  always  increasing  the  size  of  dose  50  per 
cent.  A  thermometer,  to  indicate  the  course  and  severity  of  the 
disease,  is  indispensable  in  this  work.  Usually,  after  3  to  10  days, 
sometimes  longer,  the  inoculated  animals  show  a  mild  type  of  Texas 
fever,  which  runs  a  course  of  from  6  to  8  days  and  is  followed  in 
about  30  days  after  the  injection  with  a  second  attack  of  a  milder 
character  than  the  first.  After  40  days,  when  the  animal  has  entirely 
recovered  from  the  inoculation,  a  second  injection  may  be  given 
to  increase  its  immunity.  In  some  cases  a  very  severe  type  of  fever 
follows  the  first  inoculation,  requiring  careful  nursing  and  treatment, 
as  suggested  above.  A  second,  milder  attack  follows  usually  in  about 
30  to  40  days,  after  which  the  animal  need  have  no  further  inocula- 
tions. It  is  advisable  to  prevent  any  ticks  from  getting  on  the  cattle 
until  60  days  after  their  inoculation  or  until  they  have  fully  recov- 
ered, at  which  time  a  few  ticks  may  be  placed  upon  them  in  order  to 


502  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

reenforce  their  immunity.  Naturally  this  time  varies  according  to 
the  type  of  the  attack.  As  the  best  results  with  these  immunizing 
experiments  have  been  obtained  in  cool  weather  and  with  young 
cattle,  it  is  recommended  that  animals  from  6  to  15  months  old  be 
selected  for  inoculation,  and  that  they  be  immunized  late  in  the  fall 
or  winter,  in  order  that  they  may  enter  tick-infested  pastures  in  the 
spring  without  danger. 

By  infesting  with  ticks. — Immunity  may  also  be  induced  in  suscep- 
tible animals  by  placing  limited  number  of  fever  ticks  upon  their 
bodies  in  order  to  produce  the  disease  naturally.  For  this  purf)ose 
only  animals  less  than  1  year  of  age  should  be  used,  as  the  method  is 
not  applicable  for  older  and  more  susceptible  animals.  Upon  the 
bodies  of  these  young  cattle  from  25  to  50  seed  ticks  should  be 
placed,  which  in  the  course  of  about  10  days  will  occasion  a  rise 
of  temperature  and  a  mild  form  of  Texas  fever.  When  the  animal 
has  entirely  recovered  from  this  attack,  a  second  crop— double  the 
number  first  used — should  be  applied  to  the  animal  in  order  to  in- 
crease its  power  of  resistance  when  pastured  on  infested  soil.  In 
order  to  carry  out  this  method  successfully,  a  constant  supply  of  seed 
ticks  must  be  at  hand.  This  can  be  accomplished  by  placing  the 
mature  females  in  a  Mason  fruit  jar  among  some  dirt  and  leaves  and 
keeping  them  in  a  warm  place.  In  a  few  weeks  the  eggs  will  have 
been  laid  and  hatched,  and  a  number  of  seed  ticks  will  be  present  for 
use  in  infesting  the  cattle  to  be  immunized.  By  placing  a  few  adult 
females  in  the  jar  every  two  months  there  will  always  be  a  supply  of 
these  young  ticks.  This  method  of  producing  immunity  by  controlled 
tick  infestation  is  not  so  safe  as  blood  inoculation,  as  the  number  of 
germs  injected  can  be  more  accurately  regulated  by  means  of  a 
syringe. 

TREATMENT. 

When  Texas  fever  has  broken  out,  all  animals,  the  sick  as  well  as 
the  healthy,  should  at  once  be  removed  to  a  noninfected  pasture. 
While  this  may  not  cut  short  the  disease,  it  may  save  the  lives  of 
some  by  removing  them  from  the  possibility  of  attack  by  more  young 
ticks.  Removal  from  infected  pastures  likewise  prevents  a  second 
attack,  in  October  or  early  in  November,  which  is  caused  by  another 
generation  of  ticks.  It  is  true  that  sick  natives  infect  with  a  new 
generation  of  ticks  the  pasture  to  which  they  are  removed,  but  these 
usually  appear  so  late  that  they  have  but  little  opportunity  to  do  any 
damage;  hence,  sick  natives  do  not,  as  a  rule,  cause  visible  disease 
in  other  natives. 

It  is  of  importance  to  remove  all  ticks,  so  far  as  this  is  possible, 
from  sick  animals,  since  they  abstract  a  considerable  quantity  of 
blood  and  thereby  retard  the  final  recovery. 


TEXAS    FEVER.  503 

Medical  treatment  of  the  sick  has  generally  been  unsatisfactory, 
although  in  chronic  cases  and  those  occurring  late  in  the  fall  bene- 
ficial results  have  followed.  If  the  animal  is  constipated,  a  drench 
containing  1  pound  of  Epsom  salts  dissolved  in  1  quart  of  water 
should  be  administered,  followed  by  sulphate  of  quinin  in  doses 
of  30  to  90  grains,  according  to  the  size  of  the  animal,  four  times  a 
day  until  the  system  is  well  saturated  with  it.  Tincture  of  digitalis 
one-half  ounce  and  whisky  or  alcohol  2  ounces  may  be  combined  with 
the  quinin,  according  to  indications  of  individual  cases.  An  iron 
tonic  containing  reduced  iron  2  ounces,  pow^dered  gentian  4  ounces, 
powdered  nux  vomica  2  ounces,  powdered  rhubarb  2  ounces,  and 
potassium  nitrate  6  ounces  will  be  found  beneficial  in  the  convales- 
cent stage  when  the  fever  has  run  its  course.  This  tonic  should  be 
given  in  heaping  teaspoonful  doses  three  times  a  day  in  the  feed. 
Good  nursing  is  essential  in  treating  these  cases,  and  the  animal 
should  be  given  a  nutritious,  laxative  diet  with  j)lenty  of  clean  and 
cool  drinking  "water  and  allowed  to  rest  in  a  quiet  place.  If  the 
stable  or  pasture  is  infested  with  ticks,  the  animal  should  be  placed 
in  a  tick-free  inclosure  to  prevent  additional  infestation  w^ith  these 
parasites  and  the  introduction  of  fresh  infection  into  the  blood. 
Furthermore,  all  ticks  that  can  be  seen  should  be  removed  from  the 
sick  cattle,  as  they  keep  weakening  the  animal  by  withdrawing  a 
considerable  quantity  of  blood,  and  thereby  retard  recovery. 

QUARANTINE   REGULATIONS. 

The  sanitary  regulations  issued  by  the  Department  of  Agriculture 
for  the  control  of  cattle  shipments  from  the  infected  districts  have 
for  their  initial  purpose  the  prevention  of  the  transportation  of 
ticks  from  infected  regions  to  those  that  are  not  infected,  either 
upon  cattle  or  in  stock  cars  or  other  conveyer.  They  are  based  upon 
the  fact  that  Texas  fever  is  carried  north  only  by  the  cattle  tick, 
and  the  exclusion  of  this  parasite  from  the  noninfected  territory  has 
in  every  instance  been  found  a  certain  method  of  excluding  Texas 
fever.  The  regulations  governing  the  movement  of  cattle  from 
below  the  quarantine  line  are  made  yearly  by  the  Secretary  of  Agri- 
culture, and  they  define  the  boundary  of  infected  districts.  The 
infected  area  as  now  determined  includes  the  territory  south  of  an 
imaginary  line  which  commences  on  the  Atlantic  coast  on  the  Vir- 
ginia-North Carolina  boundary  and  passes  in  a  westerly  direction 
through  Virginia,  Xorth  Carolina,  Georgia,  Alabama,  Mississippi, 
Arkansas,  Oklahoma,  and  the  western  part  of  Texas  to  the  Rio 
Grande  and  the  Mexican  border,  whence  it  passes  along  the  southern 
boundary  of  New  Mexico  and  Arizona  and  across  a  portion  of 
San  Diego,  County,  California,  to  the  Pacific  slope.     (See  PI.  L.) 


SOUTHERN  CATTLE  FEVER  (TEXAS  FEVER,  TICK  FEVER). 

DESCRIPTION     OF    PLATES. 

Plate  XLIV.  Normal  spleen  and  spleen  affected  by  Texas  fever. 

Fig.  1.  Spleen  of  an  acute,  fatal  case  of  Texas  fever.  The  narrow  end  of 
the  spleen  is  here  represented. 

Fig.  2.  Spleen  of  healthy  steer.    Though  the  latter  animal  weighed  one-half 
more  than  the  former,  the  weight  of  the  diseased  spleen  (6|  pounds) 
was  nearly  three  times  that  of  the  healthy  spleen  (2§  pounds). 
Plate  XLV.  Texas  fever. 

Fig.  1,  The  cut  surface  of  a  healthy  liver  taken  from  a  steer  slaughtered 
for  beef. 

Fig.  2.  The  cut  surface  of  the  liver  in  Texas  fever. 

Fig.  3.  Appearance  of  the  urine  in  an  acute,  fatal  case  of  Texas  fever. 

Fig.  4.  Red  corpuscles,  magnified  1,000  diameters,  containing  the  parasite  of 
Texas  fever.  This  appears  as  a  blue  point  a  near  the  edge  of  the 
corpuscle.  The  blood  was  taken  from  a  skin  incision.  The  case  was 
nonfatal  and  occurred  late  in  the  fall. 

Fig.  5.  Red  corpuscles  from  the  blood  of  an  acute,  fatal  case,  20  hours  be- 
fore death.  The  Texas  fever  microbes  a  are  shown  as  pear-shaped 
bodies,  stained  with  methylene  blue,  within  the  red  corpuscles.  The 
larger  body  on  the  right  ft  is  a  white  blood  corpuscle,  also  stained  with 
methylene  blue.  (Magnified  1,000  diameters.) 
Plate  XLYI.  The  cattle  tick  (Margaropus  anmilatus) ,  the  carrier  of  Texas 
fever. 

Fig,  1.  A  series  of  ticks,  natural  size,  from  the  smallest,  just  hatched  from 
the  egg,  to  the  mature  female,  ready  to  drop  off  and  lay  eggs. 

Fig.  2.  Eggs,  magnified  5  times. 

Fig.  3.  The  young  tick  just  hatched  (magnified  40  times). 

Fig.  4.  The  male  after  the  last  molt  (magnified  10  times). 

Fig.  5.  The  female  after  the  last  molt  (magnified  10  times). 

Fig.  6,  A  portion  of  the  skin  of  the  udder,  showing  the  small  ticks.  From 
a  fatal  case  of  Texas  fever  produced  by  placing  young  ticks  on  the 
animal.     (Natural  size.) 

Fig.  7.  A  portion  of  the  ear  of  the  same  animal,  sliowing  same  full-grown 
ticks  ready  to  drop  off.     (Natural  size.) 
Plate  XLVII.  The  cattle  tick  {Margaropus  annulatus). 

Fig.  1.  Dorsal  view  of  male.      (Greatly  enlarged.     Original.) 

Fig.  2.  Ventral  view  of  male.     (Greatly  enlarged.     Original.) 

Fig.  3.  Dorsal  view  of  replete  female.     (Greatly  enlarged.    Original.) 

Fig.  4,  Ventral  view  of  same, 
Plate  XLVIII,  Portion  of  a  steer's  hide,  showing  the  Texas  fever  tick   {^[ar^ 

garopus  annulatus) .     (Natural  size.    Original.) 
Plate  XLIX.  Fig.  1,  Tick-infested  steer. 

Fig.  2.  Dipping  cattle  to  kill  ticks. 
Plate  L.  Map  of  the  United  States,  showing  region  infected  with  Texas 
fever  of  cattle.  The  heavy  line  shows  the  boundary  of  the  tick-infested 
area  at  the  beginning  of  the  work  of  tick  eradication  in  1906.  White 
areas  below  the  line  show  territory  that  has  been  freed  from  ticks  and 
released  from  quarantine.  Shaded  areas  remain  tick  infested  and 
imder  quarantine  (April  1,  1916)!  As  a  general  rule,  cattle  may  not  be 
shipped  interstate  from  the  shaded  area  except  for  immediate  slaughter. 
As  the  quarantined  area  is  subject  to  change  at  any  time,  this  map 
should  be  compared  with  the  latest  regulations,  which  may  be  obtained 
at  any-  time  on  application  to  the  Secretary  of  Agriculture. 
504 


Diseasei  of  Cattle — U.  S.  Dept    of  Agr 


Plate  XLIV. 


C/5     O)     I" 

;5    ?    CO 


Diseases  of  Cattle — U.  S.  Dept.  of  Agr 


Plate  XLV. 


yis.  1 


Fig.  3 


Fig.  2 


Fig.  4 


(% 


Texas  Fever. 


^P 


€t  Fig.  5 


J  ftCO   BALTIMORE. 


Diseases  of  Cattle — U.  S.  Dept.  of  Agr. 


Plate  XLVI. 


«  a  4  $ 


<i         ^       ^ 


Fig.  1 


Fig.  2 


Fig.  3 


Fig.  4 


Fig.  5 


Fig.  6 

Fig.  7 

The  Cattle  Tick  (Margaropus  annulatus),  the  Carrier  of  Texas  Fever. 


AHOEN&CO  BALTIMORE. 


Oiteates  of  Cattle — U.  S.  Dept.  of  Agr. 


Plate  XLVII. 


hOENacO   BALTIMORE. 


The  Cattle  Tick  cMargaropus  Annulatus). 

Figs.  1  and  2    Dorsal  and  ventral  views  of  Male. 

Figs.  3  aud  -1    Dorsal  and  ventral  views  of  replete  Female, 
(greatly  enlarged.) 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  XLVIII. 


Portion  of  a  Steer's  Hide,  Showing  the  Texas-Fever  Tick  (Marqaropus  annulatus) 
OF  the  United  States.    Natural  Size.    Original. 


Diseases  of  Cattle. 


Plate  XLIX. 


Fig.  1.— Tick-Infested  Steer. 


FlQ.  2.— Dipping  Cattle  to  Kill  Ticks. 


Diseases  or  Cattle. 


Plate  L. 


TEXAS    FEVEE.  505 

In  consequence  of  the  enforcement  of  these  quarantine  regulations, 
Texas  fever  has  been  practically  prevented  in  the  noninfected  dis- 
tricts for  several  years,  and  little  or  no  hardship  has  been  caused  to 
stockmen  handling  cattle  from  the  infected  areas.  Prior  to  the 
adoption  of  these  regulations  the  tick-infested  district  was  rapidly 
extending  northward,  but  since  the  quarantine  line  was  established 
and  rational  regulations  enforced  it  has  gradually  been  moved  farther 
south.  This  problem  of  still  further  reducing  the  infested  area  is  of 
the  greatest  importance  to  the  cattlemen  of  the  South — in  fact,  to 
those  on  both  sides  of  the  line — and  one  which  is  receiving  special 
consideration  by  this  department  as  well  as  by  many  of  the  interested 
States. 

TICK  ERADICATION. 

Systematic  cooperative  work  by  the  Federal  Government  and  the 
affected  States  for  the  eradication  of  the  cattle  ticks  which  transmit 
Texas  fever  was  begun  in  the  summer  of  1906  under  authority  given 
by  Congress  in  the  appropriation  act  for  the  Department  of  Agricul- 
ture. The  first  Federal  appropriation  for  the  fiscal  year  ended  June 
30,  1907,  was  $82,500,  and  for  the  fiscal  year  1908  an  appropriation 
of  $150,000  was  made,  then  for  several  years  $250,000,  and  this  has 
been  increased  to  $388,800  for  1916.  Funds  have  also  been  provided 
by  States  and  counties. 

The  original  infected  area  amounted  to  728,543  square  miles.  Of 
this  territory  there  has  been  released  from  quarantine  as  a  result  of 
the  work  above  mentioned  284,521  square  miles  (up  to  April  1,  1916). 
In  other  words,  38  per  cent  of  the  area  has  been  freed  from  ticks 
in  a  little  over  nine  years. 

Great  improvement  has  already  resulted  from  this  work  in  the 
released  territory.  More  cattle  are  being  raised,  and  a  better  grade 
of  breeding  stock  is  being  introduced ;  calves  grow  faster,  and  cattle 
put  on  flesh  more  rapidly  during  the  grazing  season  and  go  into  the 
winter  in  better  condition  because  of  the  absence  of  the  ticks;  they 
can  be  marketed  without  quarantine  restrictions,  and  higher  prices 
are  being  obtained;  dairy  cows  give  a  larger  yield  of  milk;  and 
yalues  of  farm  lands  are  enhanced. 

The  difference  between  the  prices  realized  for  cattle  from  the  tick- 
infested  region  and  the  prices  of  cattle  of  similar  grades  from  above 
the  quarantine  line  ranges  from  $2.25  to  $5  a  head  at  the  principal 
northern  live-stock  markets,  without  taking  into  account  the  im- 
provement in  quality  and  weight  of  cattle  because  of  the  eradication 
of  the  ticks.  As  from  800,000  to  1,000,000  cattle  from  the  quarantined 
area  are  annually  sold  in  these  markets,  it  can  easily  be  seen  that  the 
extermination  of  the  ticks  means  an  annual  increase  of  at  least 
$3,000,000  in  the  prices  obtained  for  southern  cattle  sold  in  northern 


506  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

markets.  In  addition  to  this,  the  increase  in  prices  of  cattle  sold 
locally  in  the  South  would  represent  a  large  sum.  This  local  increase 
has  already  been  found  to  amount  to  from  $3  to  $15  a  head  in  tlie 
territory  recently  freed  from  ticks.  An  agricultural  official  of  one 
of  the  Southern  States  reports  that  calves  in  the  tick- free  area  bring 
just  double  the  prices  that  can  be  obtained  for  similar  calves  in  the 
tick-infested  region. 

Heretofore  it  has  been  impracticable  to  improve  the  quality  of 
southern  cattle  by  introducing  fine  breeding  animals  from  other  sec- 
tions, because  such  animals  were  liable  to  contract  Texas  fever  and 
die  unless  protected  by  inoculation.  Furthermore,  it  is  impossible 
for  animals  to  attain  good  growth  and  to  thrive  when  they  are 
heavily  infested  with  ticks.  With  the  eradication  of  the  ticks,  how- 
ever, the  southern  farmers  are  enabled  to  introduce  good  breeding 
animals  and  to  improve  the  grade  of  their  stock. 

There  is  no  longer  any  doubt  that  it  is  entirely  practicable  to 
exterminate  the  ticks  throughout  the  entire  region,  and  the  accom- 
plishment of  this  result  will  be  of  tremendous  economic  advantage 
not  only  to  the  South  but  to  the  whole  country.  The  rate  of  progress 
depends  mainly  on  two  factors — the  amounts  appropriated  by  the 
Federal  and  State  Governments,  and  the  cooperation  of  the  people. 

CHRONIC  BACTERIAL  DYSENTERY. 

Chronic  bacterial  dysentery  is  a  chronic  infectious  disease  of 
bovines  caused  by  an  acid-fast  bacillus  simulating  the  tubercle 
bacillus  and  characterized  by  marked  diarrhea,  anemia,  and  emacia- 
tion, terminating  in  death. 

Eecently  this  disease  has  been  observed  in  the  United  States  for 
the  first  time  by  Pearson  in  Pennsylvania  cattle,  and  later  by  Mohler 
in  Virginia  cattle,  and  in  an  imported  heifer  from  the  island  of 
Jersey  at  the  Athenia  quarantine  station  of  the  Bureau  of  Animal 
Industry. 

The  former  has  proposed  the  name  chronic  bacterial  dysentery  for 
this  affection,  and  it  has  also  been  termed  Johne's  disease,  chronic 
bacterial  enteritis,  chronic  hypertrophic  enteritis,  and  chronic  bovine 
pseudotuberculosis  enteritis  by  various  European  investigators.  The 
disease  w^as  first  studied  in  1895  by  Johne  and  Frothingham  in  Dres- 
den, but  they  were  inclined  to  attribute  to  the  avian  tubercle  bacillus 
the  cause  of  the  peculiar  lesions  of  enteritis  which  they  observed.  In 
1904  Markus  reported  this  disease  in  Holland,  and  subsequently  it 
was  observed  in  Belgium,  Switzerland,  Denmark,  and  Great  Britain. 

Cause. — The  bacillus,  which  has  been  invariably  demonstrated  in 
the  intestinal  lesions  and  mesenteric  lymph  glands  in  this  disease,  is 
a  rod  about  2  to  3  microns  long  and  0.5  micron  wide.  It  stains  more 
or  less  irregularly,  like  the  tubercle  bacillus,  and  moreover  the  simi- 


CHRONIC    BACTERIAL    DYSENTERY.  507 

larity  goes  further,  in  that  the  organism  is  also  strongly  acid-fast, 
which  facts  led  Johne  and  P^rothingham  to  surmise  that  the  disease 
was  caused  by  avian  tubercle  bacilli.  However,  it  has  now  been 
plainly  demonstrated  that  the  bacillus  of  chronic  bacterial  dysentery 
is  readily  distinguished  from  the  latter  organisms,  for  while  it  resem- 
bles the  tubercle  bacillus  in  form  and  staining  qualities,  no  one  has 
succeeded  in  growing  it  in  culture  media  or  in  reproducing  the  dis- 
ease by  injecting  experiment  animals. 

Symptoms. — Probably  the  first  symptom  noticed  is  that  the  animal 
is  losing  condition  despite  the  fact  that  its  appetite  is  good  and  the 
food  nourishing.  This  is  soon  followed  by  a  diarrhea  which,  while 
moderate  at  first,  soon  becomes  excessive  and  may  be  either  irregular 
or  persistent,  the  feces  being  of  the  consistency  of  molasses  and  passed 
frequently.  In  the  meantime  the  hair  becomes  dry  and  harsh  and 
the  animal  falls  off  considerably  in  weight.  The  temperature,  how- 
ever, remains  about  normal.  The  appetite  does  not  seem  to  be  greatly 
impaired  until  the  last  few  weeks  of  life,  but  nevertheless  emaciation 
continues,  the  animal  becomes  more  and  more  anemic,  great  mus- 
cular weakness  and  exhaustion  are  manifested,  and  death  follows, 
apparently  as  the  result  of  the  persistent  diarrhea  and  great  emacia- 
tion. The  disease  may  continue  for  four  or  five  weeks  or  may  last 
for  a  year,  or  even  longer,  before  death  intervenes. 

Lesions. — The  lesions  observed  on  post-mortem  are  remarkably 
slight  and  are  out  of  all  proportion  to  the  severity  of  the  symptoms 
manifested.  The  disease  appears  to  start  in  the  small  intestines,  es- 
pecially in  the  lower  portion,  where  the  lesions  are  usually  the  most 
marked,  but  it  also  involves  the  large  intestines,  including  the  rectum. 
The  mucous  membrane  may  alone  be  affected,  although  usually  in  the 
long-standing  cases  the  submucosa  is  also  invaded  and  the  entire 
intestinal  wall  is  then  much  thicker  than  normal  and  the  tissue 
infiltrated  with  an  inflammatory  exudate.  The  mucous  membrane 
or  inside  lining  membrane  is  markedly  wrinkled  or  corrugated, 
showing  large,  coarse  folds  with  more  or  less  reddening  or  hemor- 
rhagic patches  or  spots  on  the  summits  of  the  ridges,  especially 
noticeable  in  the  large  intestines.  The  mesenteric  lymph  glands  are 
usually  somewhat  enlarged  and  appear  watery  on  section.  The  other 
organs  do  not  appear  to  be  affected  except  from  the  anemia  present 
in  the  later  stages  of  the  disease. 

Di-fferential  diagnosis. — The  principal  disease  with  which  bacterial 
dysentery*  may  be  confused  is  tuberculosis,  but  the  application  of  the 
tuberculin  test  will  readily  diagnose  the  latter  disease,  while  no  reac- 
tion will  be  noted  in  case  the  injected  animal  is  suffering  with  the 
former  affection.  The  disease  may  also  be  mistaken  for  the  parasitic 
affections  resulting  from  stomach  worms  (verminous  gastritis)  and 
intestinal  parasites,  especially  uncinariasis,  but  a  microscopic  exami- 


508  DISEASES   OP   CATTLE. 

nation  of  the  feces  is  necessary  in  order  to  establish  definitely  the 
diagnosis. 

Treatment. — As  with  all  other  forms  of  infectious  disease,  it  is 
advisable  to  separate  immediately  the  diseased  and  suspected  cattle 
from  the  healthy  animals.  The  feces  passed  by  the  former  animals 
should  be  placed  on  cultivated  soil  where  healthy  cattle  will  not 
be  exposed  to  them,  as  the  bacilli  producing  the  disease  are  readily 
found  in  such  manure.  The  stalls,  stables,  and  barnyards  should 
also  be  thoroughly  disinfected,  as  has  been  described  under  "  Tuber- 
culosis," in  this  chapter,  special  attention  being  given  to  those  places 
which  have  been  soiled  by  feces.  The  administration  of  medicines 
has  thus  far  been  quite  unsatisfactory,  although  treatment  should  be 
directed  toward  disinfecting  the  intestines  with  intestinal  antisep- 
tics, such  as  creolin  in  2  teaspoonful  doses  twice  daily  or  tannopin  in 
1  dram  doses  twice  daily,  and  strengthening  the  animal  by  the  use 
of  stimulants  such  as  strychnin  in  half-gi'ain  doses  given  twice  daily 
hypodermically.  Salol,  turpentine,  or  subnitrate  of  bismuth  in  a 
starch  or  wheat-flour  gruel  may  also  give  temporary  relief,  but  the 
diarrhea  is  likely  to  reappear  and  cause  the  death  of  the  animal.  In 
all  cases  the  feed  must  be  carefully  selected  to  assure  good  quality, 
and  should  consist  preferably  of  nutritious  dry  feed. 

NAGANA. 

Nagana,  also  called  tsetse-fly  disease,  is  an  infectious  fever  occur- 
ring chiefly  in  horses  and  cattle,  characterized  by  alternating  par- 
oxysims  and  intermissions  and  produced  by  a  specific  flagellate  proto- 
zoan {Trypanosoma  hrucei)  in  the  blood.  It  is  probably  transmitted 
from  animal  to  animal  solely  by  the  bites  of  the  tsetse  fly.  This 
insect  is  something  like  a  large  house  fly,  and  when  it  settles  on  a 
diseased  animal,  sucks  the  blood  and  infects  its  proboscis,  it  is  enabled 
on  biting  a  second  animal  to  infect  the  latter  by  direct  inoculation. 
This  disease  is  found  throughout  a  large  portion  of  central  and 
southern  Africa,  along  the  low-lying  and  swampy  valleys.  It  has 
never  occurred  in  the  United  States,  nor  is  it  known  to  be  present  in 
the  Philippines,  but  its  relation  to  surra  and  the  possibility  of  its 
appearance  in  one  of  our  island  dependencies  are  the  reasons  for 
including  a  few  remarks  at  this  time. 

SymjytoTns. — The  chief  symptoms  in  addition  to  the  fever,  which  is 
usually  about  104°  to  105°  F.,  are  the  muscular  wasting,  progi-essive 
anemia,  and  loss  of  power,  together  with  the  edema  most  marked 
about  the  head,  legs,  abdomen,  and  genital  organs.  The  urine  is 
yellow  and  tubid,  and  occasionally  contains  albumin  and  blood. 
There  is  paralysis  of  one  or  both  of  the  hind  legs,  difficult  urination 
and  defecation,  labored  breathing,  discharge  fi'om  the  eyes  and  nose, 
extreme  thirst,  and  gradual  extension  of  paralysis  to  other  parts  of 


NAGANA CATTLE  FAECY.  509 

the  body.  The  disease  runs  a  chronic  course,  lasting  from  three  to 
six  weeks  in  horses,  and  from  one  to  six  months  in  cattle.  Besides 
these  animals,  the  mule,  ass,  buffalo,  antelope,  hyena,  camel,  and 
dog  contract  the  disease  naturally,  and  sheep,  goats,  cats,  and  small 
laboratory  animals  succumb  to  artificial  inoculation. 

Lesions. — The  spleen  and  lymphatic  glands  are  enlarged.  There 
are  sero-fibrinous  exudates  in  the  body  cavities,  the  liver  is  enlarged 
and  engorged,  heart  flabby,  and  a  catarrhal  condition  is  present  in 
the  respiratory  passages.  Pathological  changes  occur  in  the  spinal 
cord.  The  finding  of  the  trypanosoma  by  microscopic  examination 
of  the  blood  will  be  conclusive  evidence  for  diagnosis. 

Treatment. — Treatment  has  not  proved  satisfactory.  Quinin, 
arsenic,  methylene  blue,  and  other  drugs  have  been  used,  but  with- 
out success.  Endeavors  thus  far  made  to  produce  immunity  from 
this  disease  have  likewise  been  unavailing. 

CATTLE  FARCY. 

This  is  a  chronic  disease  of  cattle  occurring  in  France  and  the 
island  of  Guadeloupe,  West  Indies.  It  is  characterized  by  caseating 
nodular  swellings,  first  of  the  skin  and  afterwards  of  the  superficial 
lymphatic  vessels  and  glands,  finally  proving  fatal  within  a  year  by 
extension  to  the  viscera.  The  swellings  rupture  and  discharge  a 
purulent  yellowish  fluid,  which  contains  the  causative  organism. 
This  affection,  called  farcin  du  bceuf  by  the  French,  resembles  cuta- 
neous glanders  or  farcy  of  horses,  but  is  caused  by  an  entirely 
different  organism,  the  streptothrix  of  Nocard.  Moreover,  cattle  are 
immune  from  glanders,  and  for  this  reason  the  name,  unfortunately 
applied  to  this  disease,  should  not  lead  to  any  confusion  with  the 
cutaneous  glanders  or  farcy  of  horses.  Although  the  disease  has  been 
described  as  occurring  only  in  Guadeloupe  and  France,  the  pos- 
sibility of  its  occurrence  in  American  possessions  warrants  its  men- 
tion in  this  chapter. 

Treatnfient. — Treatment  consists  in  making  incisions  into  the  swell- 
ings and  syringing  them  out  with  2  per  cent  compound  cresol  solution. 
The  cavities  may  then  be  packed  with  cotton,  soaked  in  5  per  cent 
zinc  chlorid  solution.  The  swollen  lymphatics  may  also  be  bathed  or 
covered  with  cloths  wrung  out  in  this  solution. 

OTHER  INFECTIOUS  DISEASES. 

The  following  are  also  infectious  diseases  of  cattle,  a  discussion  of 
which  will  be  found  in  previous  chapters : 

Page. 

Contagious  abortion 165 

White  scour  of  calves 259 

Infectious  ophthalmia  (pink  eye) 343 


THE  ANIMAL  PARASITES  OF  CATTLE. 

By  B.  H.  Ransom,  Ph.  D., 
Chief  of  Zoological  Division,  Bureau  of  Animal  Industry. 

The  animal  parasites  of  cattle  comprise  more  than  a  hundred 
different  species,  belonging  to  various  groups  of  the  animal  Idng- 
dom.  Fortunately  not  all  these  parasites  occur  in  this  country — 
many  are  uncommon,  and  many  are  comparatively  harmless.  Some 
forms,  however,  occur  frequently,  and  some  are  of  distinct  impor- 
tance to  the  American  stockman  on  account  of  the  damage  for  which 
they  are  responsible.  It  is  these  parasites  particularly  which  will 
be  referred  to  in  the  present  article,  and  although  some  forms  are 
discussed  which  are  rare  or  apparently  of  little  economic  importance, 
most  of  the  minor  and  unusual  parasites  and  species  not  found  in 
this  country  have  been  omitted  from  consideration. 

FLIES.' 

Of  the  various  species  of  flies  which  infest  cattle  some  are  inju- 
rious on  account  of  the  annoyance,  pain,  and  loss  of  blood  due  to 
their  bites,  and  sometimes  also  on  account  of  diseases  or  parasites 
which  are  thus  transmitted  from  the  blood  of  diseased  animals  to 
that  of  healthy  cattle,  while  others,  which  in  the  winged  adult  state 
do  not  bite,  are  injurious  because  they  live  parasitic  on  cattle  during 
their  larval  stages. 

Remedies  for  flies.^ — Most  remedies  used  for  protecting  cattle 
from  the  attacks  of  flies  have  to  be  applied  frequently,  and  few,  if 
any,  will  keep  flies  away  for  more  than  a  day  or  two  following  their 
application.  The  numerous  proprietary  fly  repellents  to  be  found 
on  the  market  are  usually  more  expensive,  and  often  less  efficacious 
than  homemade  mixtures. 

At  the  Minnesota  experiment  station  rancid  lard  1  pound  and 
kerosene  one-half  pint,  mixed  thoroughly  until  a  creamy  mass  forms, 
was  found  to  give  excellent  results  as  a  fly  repellent,  lasting  for  two 
or  three  days,  when  rubbed  not  too  thickly  with  a  cloth  or  with  the 
bare  hand  over  the  backs  of  cows.     Mixtures  of  cottonseed  oil  and 

'^  Further  information  may  be  found  in  a  very  full  report  on  "  Insects  Affecting 
Domestic  Animals,"  issued  as  Bulletin  5,  new  series,  of  the  Bureau  of  Entomology  of  this 
department. 

2  Further  informatiou  on  fly  repellents  may  be  found  in  Bulletin  131  of  the  l>epartment 
of  Agriculture. 

510 


ANIMAL  PARASITES  OF  CATTLE.  511 

pine  tar  containing  from  10  to  50  per  cent  of  the  latter  substance 
were  found  by  investigations  in  the  Bureau  of  Animal  Industry  to 
have  a  marked  repellent  action  against  flies  when  applied  lightly 
every  day.  A  too  free  application  of  tar  mixtures  and  other  prepara- 
tions containing  phenols  is  liable  to  cause  poisoning;  hence  care 
should  be  observed  in  this  regard. 

Jensen  (1909)  recommends  the  following  formula,  which  is  said 
to  protect  cows  for  a  week : 

Common  laundry  soap 1  pound. 

Water 4  gallons. 

Crude   petroleum 1  gallon. 

Powdered  naphthalin 4  ounces. 

Cut  the  soap  into  thin  shavings  and  dissolve  in  water  by  the  aid  of 
heat ;  dissolve  the  naphthalin  in  the  crude  oil,  mix  the  two  solutions, 
put  them  into  an  old  dasher  churn,  and  mix  thoroughly  for  15 
minutes.  The  mixture  should  be  applied  once  or  twice  a  week  with 
a  brush.    It  must  be  stirred  well  before  being  used. 

THE  STABLE  FLY   (STOMOXYS  CALCITRANS).i 

This  fly  very  closely  resembles  the  house  fly,  but,  unlike  the  latter, 
it  is  a  biting  fly.  It  is  common  about  stables  and  often  enters 
dwellings,  especially  in  cloudy  weather.  According  to  Noe,  it  is  the 
agent  of  transmission  of  a  parasitic  roundworm  of  cattle  {Setaria 
labiato-papillosa^  see  p.  531).  This  fl}^  has  been  shown  capable 
of  transmitting  anthrax  from  diseased  to  healthy  animals,  and  under 
some  conditions  it  may  transmit  surra,  a  disease  caused  by  a  blood 
parasite  which  affect's  horses,  cattle,  and  other  live  stock. 

The  annoyance  suffered  by  cattle  and  horses  from  stable  flies  is 
much  lessened  if  the  stables  are  darkened. 

The  screening  of  doors  and  windows,  however,  is  preferable,  as 
ventilation  is  not  interfered  with  as  it  is  in  darkening  stables.  For 
milch  cows  coverings  made  from  burlap  (double  thickness),  includ- 
ing trouserlike  coverings  for  the  legs,  may  be  used  when  the  flies  are 
very  numerous  and  troublesome.  One  of  the  fly  repellents  men- 
tioned above  may  be  applied  to  cattle  to  protect  them  from  stable 
flies.  The  Hodge  flytrap  fitted  to  the  windows  of  dairy  barns  is  a 
useful  means  of  destroying  stable  flies. 

The  stable  fly  breeds  in  moist  accumulations  of  straw,  chaff,  cow 
or  horse  manure,  and  various  fermenting  vegetable  substances.  The 
debris  collecting  in  and  under  outdoor  feed  troughs,  and  the  remains 
of  straw  stacks  are  favorable  breeding  places  for  the  stable  fly. 
Under  the  most  favorable  conditions  about  three  weeks  are  required 
for  development  from  the  Qgg,  to  the  adult  stage. 

1  For  further  information  consult  Farmers'  Bulletin  540. 


512 


DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 


THE  HORNFLY   (LYPEROSIA  IRRITANS).i 

This  fly,  now  found  nearly  everywhere  in  the  United  States,  was 
introduced  into  this  country  from  Europe  about  the  year  1885. 
Hornflies  have  the  habit  of  clustering  about  the  base  of  the  horn 
(fig.  7) ,  whence  the  name  by  which  they  are  popularly  known.  They 
do  not  damage  the  horn,  and  congregate  there  only  to  rest. 

In  view  of  the  general  practice  of  dehorning  cattle,  the  name  horn- 
fly  is  less  distinctive  than  it  once  was.  Moreover,  hornflies  rest  on 
other  parts  of  the  body  as  well  as  the  horns. 

When  resting,  their  wings  are  held  down  close  to  the  body  (fig.  6)  ; 
when  feeding,  their  wings  are  held  out  nearly  at  right  angles,  ready 
for  flight.     They  puncture  the  skin  and  suck  blood,  usually  attacking 

the  upper  parts  of  the  body, 
particularly  those  which 
are  out  of  reach  of  the  ani- 
mal's head  ot  tail.  Unlike 
most  flies,  they  remain  on 
the  animal  more  or  less  con- 
stantly, day  and  night.  Ow- 
ing probably  to  the  irrita- 
tion and  annoyance  caused 
by  these  flies,  cattle  often 
do  not  thrive  as  they  should 
during  seasons  when  the 
flies  are  numerous.  The 
hornfly  has  also  been 
charged  with  transmitting 
diseases,  such  as  anthrax. 
The  fly  lays  its  eggs  in 
freshly  dropped  cow  ma- 
nure. They  hatch  in  about 
21  hours,  and  the  larviie  or 
maggots  in  four  or  five  days  develop  to  the  pupal  stage,  which  lasts 
a  week  or  10  days.  From  the  pupal  stage  the  mature  fly  emerges. 
The  entire  process  of  development  from  the  deposition  of  the  egg  to 
the  appearance  of  the  mature  fly  therefore  may  be  completed  in  tAvo 
Aveeks,  or  even  in  a  shorter  time.  To  protect  cattle  from  attacks 
of  the  hornfly  they  may  be  treated  Avith  one  of  the  remedies  men- 
tioned above  (p.  510).  Dipping  cattle  in  a  vat  provided  Avith  splash- 
boards set  at  the  proper  angle  destroys  most  of  the  hornflies  present 
on  the  animals.  Unless  the  splashboards  arc  used  all  but  a  fcAV  of  the 
flies  succeed  in  escaping  as  the  cattle  plunge  into  the  bath  and  Inter 


Pio.  6 
tion, 


-Hornfly  (Lifperosia  irritans)  in  resting  posi 
Enlarged.     (From  Bureau  of  Entomology.) 


1  For  fnrtlier  information  consult  Circular  115  of  tlic  Bureau  of  Entomology. 


ANIMAL   PARASITES   OF    CATTLE, 


513 


return  to  them.    Scattering  the  droppings  of  cattle  with  a  shovel,  or 
with  brush  dragged  over  pastures,  in  order  to  insure  the  rapid  drying 


Fig.  7. — Hornflies  (Lyperosia  irritans)  on  cow  horn.      (From  Bureau  of  Entomology.) 

of  the  manure  and  consequent  destruction  of  the  larvse,  is,  when 
practicable,  an  efficient  means  of  reducing  the  number  of  these  flies. 

BUFFALO   GNATS. 

These  small  flies,  also  known  as  black  flies,  are  about  one-eighth  of 
an  inch  long  and  have  a  characteristic  "humped"  back  (fig.  8). 
They  breed  in  running  water  and 
appear  in  swarms  during  spring  and 
summer,  often  in  enormous  numbers, 
causing  great  annoyance  to  stock  and 
human  beings,  on  account  of  their 
bites  and  their  entrance  into  the  eyes, 
nose,  mouth,  and  other  openings  of 
the  body.  Their  bites  appear  to  be 
poisonous  and  in  seasons  especially 
favorable  to  the  gnats  heavy  losses  of 
horses  and  cattle  often  occur. 

Buffalo  gnats  are  more  trouble- 
some in  bright,  sunny  weather  than 
when  it  is  cloudy,  and  animals  which 
have  not  shed  their  winter  coats  suf- 
fer more  from  their  attacks  than 
those  with  smooth  coats.  Cattle  kept 
in  darkened  stables  are  not  molested. 
The  application  of  one  of  the  fly  re- 
pellents already  mentioned  (p.  510) 
will  help  to  protect  animals  from  buffalo  gnats.  The  burning  of 
smudges  is  also  a  useful  means  of  protecting  stock  from  the  attacks  of 
these  flies. 


Fig.  8. 


-Buffalo  guat.    Enlarged.    (From 
Bureau  of  Entomology.) 


33071°— IG- 


-33 


514 


DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 


SCREW  WORMS. 


back    (thorax). 


Fig.  9. — Screw  worm  (larva  of  Cluy- 
somyia  maceUaria).  Enlarged. 
(From  Bureau  of  Entomology.) 


Screw  worms  (fig.  9)  are  the  maggots  of  a  fly  {Chrysom/yia  mdcel- 
laria) ,  so  called  from  their  fancied  resemblance  to  a  screw.  The  adult 
fly  (fig.  10)  is  about  one-third  of  an  inch  long,  with  a  bluish-green 
body,  red  eyes,  and  with  three  dark  longitudinal  stripes  on  the 
Attracted  by  odors  of  decay  it  deposits  its  eggs, 
300  to  400  at  a  time,  in  cuts,  sores, 
castration  wounds,  etc.  The  crush- 
ing of  a  tick  on  the  skin  commonly 
results  in  screw-worm  infection  at 
that  point.  The  eggs  hatch  in  a 
few  hours  and  the  larvae  or  mag- 
gots, or  so-called  screw  worms,  be- 
gin to  burrow  into  the  flesh  and  continue  burrowing  and  feeding 
from  three  to  six  days,  after  which  they  leave  the  wound  and  crawl 
into  the  earth,  there  transforming  into  the  quiescent  pupal  stage. 
After  this  stage  has  lasted  for  one  to  two  weeks,  the  mature  fly 
appears.  From  two  to  three  weeks  are  therefore  required  for  the 
entire  life  cycle,  although  under  certain  conditions  it  is  possible 
for  the  fly  to  undergo  its  full  de- 
velopment in  as  short  a  time  as 
nine  days. 

Besides  cattle,  the  screw-worm 
fly  attacks  sheep,  horses,  dogs,  and 
man.  In  the  case  of  hogs  it  is  gen- 
erally the  ears  which  are  affected. 
The  fly  also  breeds  in  dead  ani- 
mals, and  all  carcasses  should 
therefore  be  buried  deeply  or 
burned. 

Treatment  for  screw  wonns. — 
For  proper  treatment  an  animal 
suffering  from  screw  worms  should 
be  caught  and  thrown.  Chloro- 
form should  be  poured  into  the 
wound,  taking  care  that  it  pene- 
trates thoroughly  into  all  the  burrows  of  the  screw  worm,  if  necessary 
using  a  slender  stick  or  a  small  bunch  of  twisted  hay  as  a  probe.  The 
animal  should  be  held  for  several  minutes  in  order  to  insure  the  con- 
tinued action  of  the  chloroform.  Instead  of  chloroform,  gasoline  may 
be  used.  Finally  the  wound  should  be  dressed  with  a  carbolic  or 
cresylic  ointment  to  promote  healing  and  thus  prevent  further  infec- 
tion, or  the  wound  may  be  painted  with  pine  tar.  Dipping  in  the 
arsenical  dips  used  for  destroying  cattle  ticks  is  a  convenient  method 
of  treatment  if  many  animals  are  involved. 


Fig.  10. — Scrcw-worm  fly  (Chrysomyia 
maceUaria).  Enlarged.  (From  lUiroau 
of  Entomology.) 


ANIMAI.  PARASITES   OF    CATTLE. 
GRUBS,  WARBLES,  BOTS. 


515 


The  common  parasites  known  as  grubs,  warbles,  bots,  etc.  (fig  11), 
found  under  the  skin  of  the  backs  of  cattle,  where  they  form  more  or 
less  conspicuous  lumps  during  the  latter  part  of  w^inter  and  spring, 
are  the  larvae  of  a  fly  known  as  the  heel  fly  or  warble  fly.  This  fly 
{Tlypoderma  lineatum)  is  about  one-half  inch  long,  very  hairy,  and 
somewhat  resembles  a  small  black  bee.    The  flies  appear  early  in  the 


Fig.  11. — The  warble  fly  (Hypodcrma  lineatum)  :  a,  adult  female;  t,  eggs  attached  to  a 
hair,  X  25  ;  c^  larva  as  seen  in  egg ;  d,  larva  from  esophagus  of  au  ox  ;  e,  next  stage  of 
larva  from  beneath  the  skin  of  the  back ;  f,  larva  at  the  stage  when  it  leaves  the  back 
of  cattle  and  falls  to  the  ground — all  enlarged   (after  Riley). 

summer  and  are  more  or  less  prevalent  until  the  beginning  of  cold 
weather.  They  deposit  their  eggs  on  the  skin  of  cattle,  fastening 
them  to  the  hairs.  The  eggs  are  often  deposited  on  the  heels  above 
the  hoofs,  hence  the  name  "  heel  fly." 

Although  the  flies  are  unable  to  bite,  cattle  seem  to  be  much  afraid 
of  them,  and  often  at  their  approach  make  violent  efforts  to  escape, 
sometimes  falling  over  precipices  or  becoming  mired  in  water  holes 
in  the  course  of  their  headlong  flight. 


516  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

As  a  result  of  recent  studies  by  various  investigators  it  appears 
that  the  tiny  grubs,  newly  hatched  from  the  eggs,  may  gain  entrance 
to  the  body  by  penetrating  directly  tlirough  the  skin.  Many  ob- 
servers, however,  have  held  that  the  eggs  or  newly-hatched  larvie 
are  taken  into  the  mouth  by  the  cattle  licking  themselves.  It  is 
possible,  as  in  the  case  of  several  other  parasites,  that  both  modes  of 
infection  may  occur  and  that  the  larvae  may  gain  entrance  to  the 
body  either  by  penetrating  the  skin  or  by  being  swallowed.  From 
the  evidence  at  present  available  it  seems  likely  that  the  usual  mode 
of  entrance  is  through  the  skin.  Irrespective  of  the  mode  of  infec- 
tion, the  larvae  evidently  wander  extensively  through  the  tissues  of 
the  body,  developmental  stages  being  found  in  considerable  numbers 
in  the  wall  of  the  esophagus  during  the  fall  of  the  year.  They  have 
also  been  found  in  the  spinal  canal  and  in  various  other  locations. 
Finally,  about  January  they  appear  beneath  the  skin  of  the  back, 
forming  the  well-known  swellings.  The  posterior  end  of  the  grub  is 
near  the  small  opening  in  the  hide,  through  which  the  grub  breathes 
and  discharges  its  excrement,  and  through  which,  when  its  develop- 
ment is  complete,  it  finally  escapes.  The  anterior  end  of  the  grub  is 
at  the  bottom  of  the  tumor,  where  the  mucus  collects  upon  which  it 
feeds.  By  spring  or  early  svimmer  the  grub  is  full  grown  and  forces 
its  way  out  of  the  skin,  falling  to  the  ground,  into  which  it  burrows 
for  a  short  distance  and  transforms  into  the  pupal  stage.  In  about  a 
month  the  mature  fly  emerges. 

It  has  lately  been  discovered  that  a  second  species  of  warble  fly 
{Uypoderma  hovis)  common  in  Europe  is  of  not  uncommon  occur- 
rence in  Canada  and  the  northern  part  of  the  United  States,  whereas 
it  was  formerly  supposed  that  the  ox  warbles  of  this  country  were 
all  of  the  one  kind.  The  general  appearance,  life  history,  and  effects 
(  f  the  European  species  are  much  the  same  as  those  of  the  American 
form. 

Grubs  weaken  cattle,  cause  them  to  fall  off  in  flesh  and  milk,  and 
decrease  the  value  of  the  hide.  The  beef  in  the  immediate  vicinity 
rf  a  grub  becomes  slimy  and  of  a  greenish  color,  and  is  known  to  the 
butchers  as  "  licked  beef." 

The  total  loss  to  this  country  on  account  of  the  warble  fly  is  esti- 
mated at  $35,000,000  to  $50,000,000  a  year,  at  the  least,  and  may 
amount  to  considerably  more. 

Treatment  for  warhles. — During  the  winter  and  spring  examine 
the  cattle  for  the  presence  of  warbles.  By  passing  the  hand  over  the 
backs  of  the  animals  the  swellings  marking  the  location  of  the  grubs 
may  be  readily  found.  Pressure  properly  applied  to  the  swellings 
will  cause  the  grubs  to  "  pop  out "  if  they  have  reached  a  late  stage 
of  development.     They  may  be  more  easily  removed  by  means  of 


ANIMAL  TARASITES  OF  CATTLE.  517 

slender  forceps  inserted  into  the  opening  of  the  warbles,  and  a  still 
more  certain  method  of  removing  them,  particularly  if  the  lumps  are 
still  very  small,  is  to  cut  into  the  swellings  with  a  sharp  knife  or 
bistoury,  after  which  they  may  be  pressed  out.  Care  should  be  taken 
to  crush  all  gTubs  removed,  so  as  to  prevent  the  possibility  cf  their 
further  development  and  transformation  into  flies.  In  order  that 
none  may  escape  it  is  advisable  to  examine  the  cattle  every  two 
weeks  during  the  late  winter  and  spring,  at  each  examination  remov- 
ing the  grubs  which  have  developed  sufficiently  to  cause  perceptible 
swellings. 

Another  method  of  treatment  is  to  force  grease  or  oil  into  the  open- 
ings of  the  warbles,  which  kills  the  grubs.  This  method  is  less  cer- 
tain than  that  of  removing  the  grubs,  and  has  the  further  objection 
that  the  dead  grubs  remain  beneath  the  skin. 

Cattle  may  be  treated  during  the  summer  with  fly  repellents  (p. 
610)  to  keep  off  warble  flies.  The  efficacy  of  repellents  against  these 
flies  is  probably,  however,  not  very  gi^eat. 

In  localities  where  the  character  of  the  cattle  industry  is  such  as 
to  render  practicable  the  systematic  examination  of  cattle  and  the 
removal  of  the  grubs — that  is,  where  the  herds  are  comparatively 
small  and  subject  to  the  close  supervision  of  the  owners — it  is  pos- 
sible, by  the  exercise  of  a  little  care  and  with  very  little  effort  on  the 
part  of  the  cattle  owners,  provided  they  work  together,  each  doing 
his  share  by  seeing  to  the  removal  of  grubs  from  his  own  cattle,  so 
that  as  few  as  possible  survive  to  transform  into  flies,  to  reduce  the 
number  of  grubs  within  one  or  two  seasons  almost,  if  not  entirely,  to 
the  point  of  extinction. 

Investigations  not  yet  completed  indicate  that  grub  eradication 
may  be  accomplished  by  the  use  of  arsenical  dips,  which  are  exten- 
sively used  at  the  present  time  for  destroying  cattle  ticks.  (See 
page  473.)  It  is  not  unlikely  that  the  destructive  action  of  arsenical 
dips  upon  w^arbles  is  more  or  less  dependent  upon  the  fact  that 
arsenic  is  stored  up  in  small  quantities  in  and  upon  the  skin  of  cattle 
that  are  repeatedly  dipped  in  arsenical  dips.  The  arsenical  dip  ap- 
pears to  act,  not  upon  the  well-developed  grub  beneath  the  skin,  but 
upon  the  eggs  or  the  newly-hatched  larvte,  probably  the  latter.  Ac- 
cordingly the  dipping  of  cattle  to  destroy  grubs  should  be  carried 
out  during  the  fly  season  and  repeated  treatments  should  be  given 
every  tAvo  or  three  weeks,  as  in  dipping  cattle  to  eradicate  ticks. 

LICE.^ 

Cattle  are  affected  by  three  species  of  lice,  two  of  them  sucking 
lice  {Ilaviatojnmis  eurysternus,  the  short-nosed  cattle  louse,  and 
Linognathu^  vituU,  the  long-nosed  cattle  louse),  commonly  known 

1  For  further  information  see  Bulletin  5,  new  series,  Bureau  of  Entomolo.^y. 


518 


DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 


as  blue  lice,  and  one  biting  louse  {Tnchodectes  scalaris),  commonly 
known  as  the  red  louse. 

The  blue  lice  (figs.  12  and  13)  suck  the  blood  of  cattle  and  are  more 
injurious  than  the  red  lice  (fig.  14).  Unless  very  abundant  the  latter 
cause  little  injury.  If  numerous  they  irritate 
and  worry  their  host  probably  more  by  their 
sharp  claws  than  by  their  bites,  as  their  food 
seems  to  consist  entirely  of  particles  of  hair  and 
dead  skin. 

Cattle  lice  reproduce  by  means  of  eggs  or  nits 
(fig.  15)  which  they  fasten  to  the  hair.  The  blue 
lice  infest  chiefly  the  neck  and  shoulders ;  red  lice, 
when  present,  may  be  found  almost  anywhere  on 
the  body,  but  are  usually  most  numerous  on  neck, 
shoulders,  and  at  the  ro(!t  of  the  tail. 

On  account  of  the  itching  caused  by  the  lice, 
infested  cattle  rub  against  posts,  trees,  etc.,  and 
lick  themselves,  the  hair  sometimes  coming  out 
and  the  skin  becoming  thickened  so  that  mange 
may  be  suspected. 

Treatment  for  lice. — Cattle  infested  with  lice 
should  be  dipped  in  the  spring  and  again  in  the  fall,  using  a  cresol  or 
nicotin  dip  (see  p.  521),  or  Beaumont  oil  emulsion  (see  p.  522).  The 
arsenical  dip  (see  p.  473)  is  also  another  remedy  which  may  be  effect- 
ively used  against  lice.  Wlien  possible  a 
second  dipping  should  be  given  after  the 
lapse  of  10  to  11  days,  and  in  some  cases 
several  treatments  may  be  necessary  before 
the  lice  are  brought  under  control.  The 
dips  mentioned  are,  as  a  rule,  more  effica- 
cious against  lice  than  lime-sulphur  dip. 
Though  lime-sulphur  is  an  excellent  mange 
remedy,  it  is  less  .satisfactory  for  lice,  espe- 
cially blue  lice.  If  only  a  few  cattle  are  to 
be  treated  the  dip  may  be  applied  with  a 
brush  or  cloth,  or  with  a  small  spray  pump, 
or  a  mixture  of  kerosene  one-half  pint  and 
lard  1  pound  may  be  smeared  on  the  body. 


Fig.  12. — Short-nosed 
blue  louse  (Ilwma- 
top  inus  eury  stern  us ) 
of  ciittle.  Enlarged. 
( From  Bureau  of 
Entomology.) 


/■f 


Fig.  1.1. — Long  -  nosed  lihio 
louse  (Linoijnathits  viiuli) 
of  cattle.  Enlarged.  (From 
Bureau  of  Entomology.) 


MANGE,  ITCH,  SCAB.* 

Cattle  are  subject  to  four  kinds  of  mange,  of  which  common  mange 
or  psoroptic  mange  is  the  most  important. 

1  For  a  fuller  discussion  see  Farmers'   Bulletin  152,  issuocl  by  tlic  TTnlted  States  De- 
IKirtnii'ut  of  Agriculture. 


ANIMAL  PARASITES   OF   CATTLE. 


519 


PSOROPTIC   MANGE. 

Psoroptic  mange  of  cattle  is  caused  by  small  mites  (fig.  16)  which 
multiply  rapidly  and  are  spread  from  diseased  to  healthy  cattle 
by  bodily  contact,  or  by  pens,  stables,  railroad  cars,  etc.,  recently 
occupied  by  mangy  cattle.  Tlie  mites  attack 
the  skin  and  cause  it  to  become  thickened  and 
covered  with  crusts  and  scabs,  with  a  conse- 
quent loss  of  hair.  Intense  itching  accom- 
panies the  disease,  and  affected  cattle  are 
more  or  less  constantly  rubbing  and  licking 
themselves.  Psoroptic  mange  commences  at 
the  root  of  the  tail,  or  on  the  neck,  or  withers, 
and  gradually  extends  over  the  back  up  to 
the  head,  over  the  sides,  and  may  finally  af- 
fect nearly  the  entire  body  except  the  legs. 
In  serious  cases  the  skin  may  become  ulcer- 
ated; the  animals  are  greatly  weakened  and 
emaciated,  and  finally  die.  By  taking  scrap- 
ings from  the  edges  of  scabby  patches  and 
placing  them  on  a  piece  of  black  paper  in  a 
warm  place  the  mites  may  be  seen  as  tiny 
white  objects  crawling  over  the  paper,  more 
distinctly  if  a  magnifying  glass  is  used. 
Mange  may  be  confused  with  lousiness,  ring- 
worm, or  with  any  condition  in  which  there 

is  itching  or  loss  of  hair,  but  if  mites  are  found  there  is  no  question 
of  the  diagnosis.  The  disease  is  worse  during  cold,  w^et  weather. 
Mangy  cattle,  when  on  good  pasture  during  the  summer  often  seem 

to  recover,  but  in  the  fall  the  disease  again 
appears  in  a  severe  form. 

Treatment. — The  most  generally  used  and 
most  satisfactory  method  of  treating  cattle 
mange  consists  in  dipping  the  animals  in  a 
^at  filled  w^ith  a  liquid  of  such  nature  that 
it  will  kill  the  parasites  without  injuring 
the  cattle.  Yats  for  dipping  cattle  are  built 
of  wood,  stone,  or  concrete,  and  vary  in 
length  from  30  to  100  feet  or  more.  They 
vary  in  width  from  3  to  7  feet  at  the  top, 
and  1^-  to  3  feet  at  the  bottom,  and  the  depth 
may  be  from  7  to  10  feet.  A  narrow  chute 
through  which  the  cattle  are  driven  leads 
to  one  end  of  the  vat,  where  a  steep  slide  pitches  the  cattle  into  the 
dipping  fluid,  through  which  they  swim,  and  climb  out  of  the  vat  at 
the  other  end,  which  is  built  sloping  and  provided  with  cross  cleats  to 


Fig.  14. — Red  louse  (Tric7w- 
dectes  scalat-ls)  of  cattle. 
Enl.nrged.  (From  Bureau 
of  Entomology.) 


Fig.  15. — Egg  of  short- 
nosed  blue  louse  (Hwma- 
topinus  eurystermis)  at- 
tached to  a  hair.  Enlarged. 
(Prom  Bureau  of  Ento- 
mology.) 


£20 


DISEASES   OP   CATTLE. 


give  the  animals  a  foothold.  A  draining  pen  with  floor  sloping  back 
toward  the  vat  is  generally  provided.  The  dip  should  be  used  warm, 
100°  to  105°  F.,  and  the  cattle  should  be  held  in  the  vat  for  two 
minutes  to  insure  thorough  action  of  the  dip.  The  head  of  each 
animal  should  be  ducked  at  least  once.  Care  should  be  taken  that 
the  vat  contains  a  sufficient  depth  of  fluid  to  swim  the  animals  to 

be  dipped.  The  dip- 
ping fluid  may  be 
heated  from  a  steam 
boiler  by  pipes  or 
hose,  or  water  heated 
in  large  iron  caul- 
drons or  tanks  may 
be  used  for  charging 
the  vat,  and  hot 
water  with  a  proper 
quantity  of  dip 
added  from  time  to 
time  as  the  dipping 
fluid  becomes  cool. 
The  vat  for  use  in 
tick  eradication  (de- 
scribed in  Bureau  of 
Animal  Industry 
Circular  207)  if  sup- 
plied with  heating 
facilities  may  be  used 
in  treating  cattle  for 
mange,  but  should 
be  of  greater  length 
if  many  cattle  are  to 
be  treated. 

If  Beaumont  oil 
emulsion  is  used,  one 
treatment  will  be  sufficient  and  the  dip  may  be  used  cold.  Beaumont 
oil  and  similar  crude  petroleums,  however,  are  difficidt  to  obtain  and 
are  rarely  used.  With  ether  dips  two  treatments  are  required,  the 
second  treatment  being  given  10  days  after  the  first.  The  second 
treatment  is  necessary  to  kill  the  few  parasites  which  sometimes  escape 
at  the  first  treatment,  either  in  the  egg  stage  or  as  fecundated  females. 


Fig  16. — Mite  which  causes  psoroptic  scab  of  sheep — 
enlarged  about  100  times.  The  mite  of  psoroptic  cattle 
mauge  is  almost  identical  in  appearance. 


LIME-STTLPHUK   DIP. 


The  lime-sulphur  dip  is  made  in  the  proportion  of  12  pwinds  of 
unslaked  lime  (or  16  pounds  oi  commercial  hvdrnted  lime — not  air- 


ANIMAL   PARASITES    OF    CATTLE.  521 

slaked  lime),  24  pounds  of  floAvers  of  sulphur,  and  100  gallons  of 
water. 

DirectioTis  for  preparing  100  gallons  of  dip. — Weigh  out  the  lime, 
12  pounds  (or  hydrated  lime,  16  pounds),  and  sulphur,  24  pounds. 
Place  the  unslaked  lime  in  a  shallow,  water-tight  box  similar  to  a 
mortar  box,  or  some  other  suitable  vessel,  and  add  water  enough  to 
slake  the  lime  and  form  a  lime  paste  or  lime  putty.  Sift  into  this 
paste  the  flowers  of  sulphur  and  stir  well ;  then  place  the  lime-sulphur 
paste  in  a  kettle,  boiler,  or  tank  containing  30  gallons  of  water,  the 
water  being  first  heated  nearly  to  the  boiling  point.  Boil  the  mixture 
for  two  hours  at  least,  stirring  frequently;  add  water  occasionally 
to  maintain  the  original  quantity.  AIIoav  the  mixture  to  settle  in  the 
tank  or  draw  the  entire  contents  of  the  kettle  or  boiling  tanlc  into  a 
large  tub  or  barrel  placed  near  the  dipping  vat  and  provided  with  a 
bunghole  about  4  inches  from  the  bottom,  and  then  allow  ample  time 
to  settle — from  two  to  three  hours  or  more  if  necessary.  When  fully 
settled,  draw  off  the  clear  liquid  into  the  dipping  vat,  taking  care 
not  to  allow  any  of  the  sediment  to  accompany  it,  as  the  sediment  is 
liable  to  render  the  dip  unnecessarily  caustic.  The  clear  liquid  thus 
obtained  only  requires  the  addition  of  sufficient  clear  warm  water  to 
bring  the  total  up  to  100  gallons.  Flowers  of  sulphur  must  be  used, 
and  the  lime  must  be  of  good  quality. 

The  dipping  bath  should  be  used  at  a  temperature  of  100°  to  105° 
F.,  and  for  official  dippings  must  be  maintained  at  all  times  at  a 
strength  of  not  less  than  2  per  cent  of  "  sulphid  sulphur  "  as  indi- 
cated by  the  Bureau  of  Animal  Industry  field  test  for  lime-sulphur 
baths. 

NICOTIN    DIP. 

The  nicotin  dip  is  made  with  sufficient  extract  of  tobacco,  or 
nicotin  solution,  to  give  a  mixture  containing  not  less  than  five 
one-hundredths  of  1  per  cent  nicotin  and  2  per  cent  flowers  of  sul- 
phur. Sufficient  nicotin  would  therefore  be  furnished  for  96  gallons 
(about  800  pounds)  of  dip  by  1  pound  of  a  40  per  cent  solution  of 
nicotin.  The  formula  for  this  dip  would  be:  Nicotin,  four-tenths  of 
a  pound ;  flowers  of  sulphur,  16  pounds ;  water,  96  gallons. 

To  calculate  how  much  nicotin  solution  or  extract  of  tobacco 
should  be  used  for  96  gallons  of  water,  divide  the  quantity  of  nicotin 
required  in  the  dip  by  the  proportion  of  nicotin  in  the  extract.  For 
example,  suppose  the  nicotin  solution  contains  25  per  cent  nicotin, 
we  have  0.40^-0.25=1.6.  Therefore  in  this  case  it  would  require  1.6 
pounds  of  nicotin  solution  for  the  96  gallons  of  dip.  Or,  if  a  tobacco 
extract  is  used,  having  for  example  2.4  per  c«nt  of  nicotin,  the  for- 
mula would  be  as  follows:  0.40-^-0.024=16.66,  and  therefore  16.66 
pounds  would  be  required  for  96  gallons  of  dip.     Do  not  use  any 


522  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

preparation  the  strength  of  which  is  not  given  on  the  outside  of  the 
package. 

In  preparing  these  dips  the  nicotin  solution  and  sulphur  should 
be  mixed  together  with  water  before  adding  them  to  the  water  in  the 
dipping  vat.  On  no  account  should  the  dip  be  heated  above  110^  F. 
after  the  nicotin  solution  is  added,  as  heat  is  liable  to  evaporate  the 
nicotin  and  weaken  the  dip. 

For  ojSicial  dippings  the  dipping  bath  should  be  used  at  a  tem- 
perature of  100°  to  105°  F.  and  at  all  times  must  be  maintained  at 
a  strength  of  not  less  than  five  one-hundredths  of  1  per  cent  nicotin 
as  indicated  by  a  field  test  approved  by  the  Bureau  of  Animal  In- 
dustry. 

A  homemade  nicotin  dip  may  be  prepared  as  follows : 

For  each  100  gallons  of  dip  desired,  take  21  pounds  of  good,  pre- 
pared tobacco  leaves;  soak  the  leaves  in  cold  or  lukewarm  water 
for  24  hours  in  a  covered  pot  or  kettle;  then  bring  the  water  to  near 
the  boiling  point  for  a  moment,  and,  if  in  the  morning,  allow  the 
infusion  to  draw^  for  an  hour;  if  in  the  evening,  allow  it  to  draw 
overnight;  the  liquid  is  next  strained  (pressure  being  used  to  extract 
as  much  nicotin  as  possible  from  the  wet  leaves)  and  diluted  to  100 
gallons  per  21  pounds  of  tobacco.  This  dip  should  be  used  as  fresh 
as  possible,  as  it  contains  a  large  amount  of  organic  material  which 
will  soon  decompose. 

BEAUMONT    OIL   EMULSION. 

Directions  for  Tnaking  100  gallons. — ^Dissolve  with  the  aid  of  heat 
5  pounds  of  hard  soap  (ordinary  laundry  soaps  are  satisfactory)  in 
5  gallons  of  soft  water ;  to  this  solution  add  20  gallons  of  Beaumont 
crude  petroleum  or  a  similar  oil,  mixing  with  a  spray  pump,  or 
otherwise,  in  a  thorough  manner.  TVlien  properly  prepared  the  con- 
centrated emulsion  will  stand  indefinitely  without  any  tendency 
toward  a  separation  of  the  oil  and  water,  and  can  be  diluted  in  any 
proportion  with  cold  soft  water.  To  make  a  20  per  cent  emulsion 
add  to  the  concentrated  emulsion  sufficient  soft  water  to  bring  the 
total  up  to  100  gallons,  keeping  the  whole  mass  thoroughly  agitated. 

Oil  emulsions  are  no  longer  permitted  for  official  dippings  of 
cattle.  In  view  of  the  difficulty  in  obtaining  suitable  oils,  and  the 
occasionally  severe  effects  upon  cattle,  particularly  in  very  cold  or 
very  warm  weather,  their  use  is  not  advisable  except  under  excep- 
tional circumstances. 

CHORIOPTIC  MANGE. 

Chorioptic  mange,  due  to  a  species  of  mite  different  from  that  caus- 
ing common  cattle  mange,  is  confined  almost  entirely  to  the  region  at 


ANIMAL   PARASITES   OF    CATTLE.  523 

the  root  of  the  tail  and  if  not  treated  may  persist  for  years.     Tlie 
treatment  is  the  same  as  for  psoroptic  mange. 

SARCOPTIC  MANGE. 

Sarcoptic  mange  is  caused  by  a  mite  very  similar  to  that  which 
causes  itch  in  human  beings.  It  commonly  affects  the  head  and  neck, 
but  may  also  occur  on  various  other  parts  of  the  body.  Bulls  are 
particularly  liable  to  be  affected  with  this  form  of  mange.  Cattle 
may  become  infected  not  only  from  other  cattle,  but  also  from  horses, 
goats,  dogs,  sheep,  and  hogs. 

The  treatment  is  the  same  as  for  psoroptic  mange. 

DEMODECTIC   MANGE. 

Demodectic  mange,  which  is  caused  by  a  small  parasite  that  lives 
in  the  hair  follicles,  causing  pustules,  especially  on  the  neck  and 
shoulders,  occurs  occasionally  among  cattle  in  this  country  and  is  of 
importance  on  account  of  the  injury  to  the  hide.  When  tanned,  hidas 
infested  by  this  parasite  are  pitted,  the  pits,  in  some  cases,  being 
so  deep  that  they  form  holes.  No  practicable  treatment  is  laiown 
for  this  disease. 

TICKS.* 

About  10  species  of  ticks  have  been  reported  as  parasites  of  cattle 
in  the  United  States.  The  most  common  and  most  important  is 
the  species  known  as  Margaropus  annulatus^  which  transmits  Texas 
fever.  Information  concerning  this  tick  and  Texas  fever  has  been 
given  elsewhere  in  this  volume  (p.  473). 

The  spinose  ear  tick  {Otohius  megnini  or  Ornithodaros  megnim) 
is  frequently  found  in  the  ears  of  cattle  in  the  western  part  of  the 
United  States,  and  is  of  common  occurrence  also  in  the  ears  of  horses, 
dogs,  cats,  etc. 

When  its  parasitic  stage  of  development  is  completed  the  ear  tick 
leaves  its  host.  Mating  between  the  sexes  occurs  after  the  ticks  have 
cast  their  skins  following  the  abandonment  of  their  host.  They 
usually  crawl  up  some  distance  from  the  ground  and  secrete  them- 
selves in  cracks  and  crevices  in  trees,  walls  of  buildings,  etc.,  wdiere 
the  females  deposit  their  eggs. 

After  the  eggs  hatch,  the  larval  ticks,  which  emerge  from  them, 
when  they  succeed  in  finding  a  host,  enter  the  ears  and  gradually 
develop  to  the  stage  at  which  they  are  ready  to  leave  the  host  animal. 
The  females  may  live  several  months,  or  even  years,  if  they  do  not 
find  mates.     After  mating  they  may  deposit  their  eggs  intermit- 

1  For  a  more  complete  discussion  consult  Farmers'  Bulletins  569  and  498,  Bulletins 
130  and  152  of  the  Bureau  of  Animal  Industry,  and  Bulletins  15,  technical  series,  72 
and  106  of  the  Bureau  of  Entomology,  all  issued  by  the  United  States  Department  of 
Agriculture. 


524  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

tently.  Hatching  of  the  eggs  may  occur  as  earl}'  as  10  days  after 
deposition.  The  larva?  may  live  for  80  days  without  a  host.  The 
parasitic  period  has  been  observed  to  vary  from  about  two  to  about 
seven  months. 

Treatment. — On  account  of  their  protected  location,  ear  ticks  are 
not  likely  to  be  affected  by  dipping  or  spraying.  Ear  ticks  are  very 
difficult  to  kill,  and  remedies  efficacious  against  them  are  liable  to 
injure  the  cattle.  The  parasites  may  sometimes  be  expelled  by  pour- 
ing into  the  ear  noninjurious  substances,  such  as  cottonseed  oil,  lin- 
seed oil,  20  per  cent  emulsion  of  crude  petroleum,  or  almost  any 
stock  dip  diluted  as  for  use  in  dipping,  but  usually  the  results  of 
treatment  are  unsatisfactory.  Some  stock  owners  report  favorable 
results  from  arsenical  dip  (p.  496)  poured  into  the  ears. 

BLOODSUCKERS  OR  LEECHES. 

These  worms  are  sometimes  taken  up  by  cattle  when  drinking  from 
ponds.  They  may  attach  themselves  to  the  inner  surface  of  the 
mouth  or  nose,  and  sometimes  reach  the  upper  part  of  the  windpipe 
or  of  the  gullet.  Bleeding  at  the  mouth  or  nose  may  be  noticed,  the 
membranes  where  the  leech  is  attached  are  liable  to  be  swollen  and 
congested,  and  as  a  result  of  the  loss  of  blood  a  condition  of  anemia 
may  result. 

Treatment. — If  the  worm  can  be  reached  it  may  be  destroyed  by 
cutting  it  in  two  with  a  pair  of  scissors,  or  it  may  be  removed  with 
forceps  or  with  the  fingers  after  wrapping  a  towel  around  the  hand 
so  that  the  worm  can  be  held  without  slipping.  Fumigation  with 
tobacco  or  tar  may  cause  the  worm  to  release  its  hold  if  it  can  not  be 
removed  by  other  means.  Ponds  may  be  rid  of  infestation  with 
bloodsuckers  by  the  introduction  of  eels. 

PARASITES  OF  THE  STOMACH. 

The  stomach  of  cattle  consists  of  four  compartments,  of  which  the 
first  and  fourth  are  most  likely  to  be  the  seat  of  parasitic  infestation. 
The  first  stomach,  or  paunch,  contains  large  numbers  of  minute  para- 
sites known  as  protozoa,  which  are  too  small  to  be  seen  with  the 
naked  eye.  These  small  organisms  aparently  are  m  no  way  injuri- 
ous. A  species  of  fluke  [ParamphistomuTn  eerin  or  a  closely  related 
s})ecies)  is  occasionally  found  in  North  American  cattle,  especially 
grass-fed  cattle,  attached  to  the  inner  surface  of  the  first  stomach 
(fig.  17).  This  worm  is  about  one-half  inch  long,  and  somewhat 
conical  in  shape;  hence  the  name,  conical  fluke,  by  which  it  is  some- 
times known.  Although  this  parasite  has  been  accused  of  producing 
serious  ejffects,  it  is  generally  considered  harmless. 


ANIMAL   PARASITES   OF    CATTLE. 


525 


Several  species  of  loundworms  may  occur  in  the  fourth  stomach. 
Two  of  these  are  of  special  importance. 


Fig.  17. — Portion  of  the  wall 
of  the  first  stomach  with 
conical  flukes  attached. 


THE  TWISTED  STOMACH  WORM   (H^MONCHUS  CONTORTUS). 

The  twisted  stomach  worm  {HceTnonchus  contortus^  figs.  18,  19, 
20)  is  sometimes  found  in  enormous  numbers  in  the  fourth  stomach 
of  cattle.  Sheep,  goats,  and  other  ruminants  may  also  be  infested 
with  it.  Among  the  symptoms  caused  by 
this  parasite  may  be  mentioned  anemia,  loss 
of  flesh,  general  weakness,  dullness,  capri- 
cious appetite,  excessive  thirst,  and  diar- 
rhea. The  anemic  condition  is  seen  in  the 
paleness  of  the  slrin  and  mucous  membranes 
of  the  mouth  and  eye,  and  in  the  watery 
swellings  which  often  develop  under  the 
lower  jaw  ("  poverty  jaw  ").  If  the  fourth 
stomach  of  a  dead  animal  is  cut  open  and 
the  contents  carefully  examined,  the  para- 
sites, which  are  from  \  inch  to  1^  inches  in 
length  and  about  as  thick  as  an  ordinary  pin,  may  be  seen,  if  present 
in  any  considerable  number,  actively  wriggling  about  like  little 
snakes. 

Cattle  become  infected  with  these  .parasites  by  grazing  on  pastures 
on  which  infested  cattle,  sheep,  or  goats  have  grazed  and  scattered 
their  droppings.  The  worais  in  the  stomach  produce  a  multitude  of 
eggs  (fig.  19<7)  of  microscopic  size,  which  pass  out  of  the  body  in 
the  feces.  In  warm  weather  these  eggs  hatch  in  a  few  hours.  If 
the  temperature  is  below  40°  F.,  they  remain 
dormant,  and  if  below  freezing,  they  soon  die. 
The  eggs  are  also  killed  by  dryness;  moisture, 
on  the  other  hand,  favoring  their  development. 
The  larva?  which  hatch  from  the  eggs  are  mi- 
croscopic in  size,  and,  like  the  eggs,  are,  at  first 
and  until  they  have  developed  to  a  certain 
stage,  very  susceptible  to  freezing  and  drying. 
In  ver}'-  warm  weather  the  larvae  complete  their 
development,  so  far  as  they  are  able  to  develop  outside  the  body,  in 
two  or  three  days.  In  cooler  weather  the  time  required  for  this  devel- 
opment is  longer,  and  at  temperatures  below  70°  F.  10  days  to  several 
weeks  may  be  necessary.  The  larvae  are  then  ready  to  be  taken  into 
the  body.  The  eggs  and  early  stages  of  the  larva?  apparently  do  not 
develop  if  swallowed,  and  only  the  completed  larval  stage  seems  to 
be  infectious.  In  this  stage  the  larvse  migrate  up  grass  stalks  (fig. 
20)  or  other  objects,  showing  activity  whenever  the  air  is  saturated 


Fio.  18. — Twisted  stom- 
ach worm  (Hwmonchus 
conlortus) .  Outlines 
showing  natural  size 
of  male  (above)  and 
female. 


526 


DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 


Avith  moisture ;  that  is,  during  rains,  fogs,  and  dews.  When  the  air 
becomes  dry  and  the  moisture  evaporates  from  the  grass  the  young 
vrorms  cease  their  activity,  resuming  their  migrations  when  the  air 

again  becomes  overladen  with 
moisture.  Larvae  which  have 
developed  to  the  infectious 
stage,  unlike  the  eggs  and 
early  larval  stages,  are  able 
to  survive  long  periods  of 
freezing  and  dryness.  In  two 
weeks  to  a  month  after  the 
embryos  are  swallowed  the}'^ 
reach  maturity  and  begin 
producing  eggs. 

Preventive  treatment. — 
Preventive  measures  are  im- 
portant. As  moisture  favors 
the  development  of  the  em- 
bryos, high  sloping  ground  is 
preferable  for  pastures.  If 
low  ground  is  used,  it  should 
be  properly  drained.  The 
pasture  sliould  not  be  over- 
stocked. Burning  over  the 
pasture  will  destroy  most  of 
the  young  worms  on  the  grass 
and  on  the  ground,  and  this 
means  of  disinfection  under 
certain  circumstances  may  be 
very  advantageously  used. 
The  herd  should  be  changed 
to  fresh  pasture  as  often  as 
possible.  Cattle  should  be 
supplied  with  water  from 
wells,  springs,  or  flowing 
streams,  preferably  in  tanks 
or  troughs  raised  above  the 
ground.  To  u  slight  degree 
salt  serves  to  protect  cattle 
iigainst  infection  with  internal  parasites,  and  plenty  of  it  should 
therefore  be  kept  accessible. 

Affected  animals  should  be  isolated  from  the  rest  of  the  herd  in 
hospital  pens  or  pastures.  A  plentiful  supply  of  nourishing  feed  is 
an  ini})()rtant  factor  in  enabling  cattle  to  withstand  the  attacks  of 
stomach  worms  and  other  intestinal  parasites.    Tlie  stabling  of  cattle, 


<? 


6 


Fifi.  19. — Twisted  stomach  worms  (Hwmonchus 
contortus) .  Male  (o),  female  (h),  and  egg  (c). 
Enlai'ired. 


ANIMAL  PARASITES   OP   CATTLE. 


527 


with  the  maintenance  of  clean  and  sanitary  surroundings  and  lib- 
eral feeding,  will  often  stop  losses  from  internal  parasites,  even 
though  no  medicinal  treatment  is  given. 

Medicinal  treatment. — In  dosing  animals 
for  stomach  worms  it  is  advisable  to  treat 
not  only  the  animals  which  are  seriously 
affected,  but  the  rest  of  the  herd  as  well, 
since  the  parasites  with  which  they  are  in- 
fested will  remain  as  a  source  of  reinfection 
to  the  others.  The  cattle  should  be  removed 
to  fresh  pasture  after  treatmei:^;,  if  possible. 
The  animals  to  be  treated  should  be  de- 
prived of  feed  for  12  to  16,  or  even  21,  hours 
before  they  are  dosed,  and  if  the  bluestone 
treatment  is  used  should  receive  no  water  on 
the  day  they  are  dosed  until  several  hours 
after  dosing.  In  drenching,  a  long-necked 
bottle  or  a  drenching  tube  may  be  used.  In 
case  the  former  is  used  the  dose  to  be  given 
may  be  first  measured  off,  poured  into  the 
bottle,  and  the  point  marked  on  the  outside 
with  a  file,  so  that  subsequent  doses  may  be 
measured  in  the  bottle  itself.  A  simple  form 
of  drenching  tube  (fig.  21)  consists  of  a  piece 
of  rubber  tubing  about  3  feet  long  and  one- 
half  inch  in  diameter,  with  an  ordinary  tin 
funnel  inserted  in  one 
end    and    a    piece    of 

brass  or  iron  tubing  4  to  6  inches  long,  of  suit- 
able diameter,  inserted  in  the  other  end.  In 
use  the  metal  tube  is  placed  in  the  animal's 
mouth  between  the  back  teeth,  and  the  dose  is 
poured  into  the  funnel,  which  is  either  held  by 
an  assistant  or  fastened  to  a  post.  The  flow 
of  liquid  through  the  tube  is  controlled  b}' 
pinching  the  rubber  tubing  near  the  point  of 
union  with  the  metal  tube.  It  is  important 
not  to  raise  the  animal's  head  too  high  on  ac- 


FiG.    20.- 


0.1  nun.. 

Larva  of  twisted 
stomach  worm  (Hwinon- 
chus  contoitus)  coiled  on 
tip  of  grass  blade.  En- 
larged. 


Fig.   21. — A  drenching  tube  made  from  an  ordinary  tin  funnel,  a  piece  of  rubber 
hose,  and  a  piece  of  brass  pipe. 

count  of  the  danger  of  the  dose  entering  the  lungs.  The  nose  should 
not  be  raised  higher  than  the  level  of  the  eyes.  The  animal  may  be 
dosed  either  standing  on  all  fours  or  lying  on  the  side. 


528  DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 

The  position  on  all  fours  is  preferred  by  some  authorities,  who  be- 
lieve that  more  of  the  remedy  is  likely  to  reach  the  fourth  stomach 
when  the  animal  is  dosed  standing  than  when  dosed  in  other  posi- 
tions. 

Great  care  should  be  used  in  dosing  to  prevent  the  entrance  of  the 
liquid  into  the  lungs,  and  in  the  preparation  and  administration  of  the 
remedy  to  avoid  getting  the  solution  too  strong  or  the  dose  too  large. 

Bluestone,  or  copper  sulphate,  has  been  extensively  used  in  South 
Africa  in  the  treatment  of  sheep  and  cattle  for  stomach  worms  and 
is  recommended  by  the  colonial  veterinary  surgeon  of  the  Cape  Col- 
ony as  the  best  and  safest  remedy.  To  prepare  the  solution  take  1 
pound  (avoirdupois)  of  pure  bluestone,  powder  it  fine  and  dissolve 
in  9  J  gallons  of  warm  water.  It  is  better  first  to  dissolve  the  blue- 
stone  in  2  or  3  quarts  of  boiling  water,  then  add  the  remaining  quan- 
tity of  cold  water,  and  mix  thoroughly.  This  solution  may  be  given 
to  cattle  in  the  following-sized  doses : 

Calves 3i  to  4  ounces. 

Yearlings 6  ounces. 

Two-year-olds  and  over 12  to  16  ounces. 

The  doses  for  sheep  are  as  follows : 

Lambs    3    months    old I  ounce. 

Lambs  6  months  old li  ounces. 

Sheep  12  months  old 2i  ounces. 

Sheep  18  months  old 3    ounces. 

Sheep  24  months  old 3*  ounces. 

In  making  up  the  solution  only  clear  blue  crystals  of  bluestone 
ithould  be  used.     Bluestone  with  white  patches  or  crusts  should  be 

,  ,  rejected.     It  is  especially  important 

0  ^  ^      '  ^O  p.  0     (3^  that  the  bluestone  and  water  be  accu- 

"}'(?  ^  Q  ^Q  %®*   ^        '  rately    weighed    and    measured,    and 

''^         n     '  ^        '^'^^  >  ^^^^^  *^^^  ^^^^  ^^  ^^^®  ^^^^  ^®  graduated 

^^  ^^       ^^0^3;^^^^"'  according  to  the  age  of  the  animal. 

-®   0^L  ^  0  ^o%    Q-  The  special  value  of  medicated  salts 

»  ^a^Q    ^  tD    ^  0   0:  advertised  under  various  trade  names 

^^  '^  C^>^^^     n\^  ^  ^^  preventives  against  Avorms  is  prob- 

Q^Q  c5®^-&^^    o'^<D  (9  lematical.      Commonly    they    contain 

*           u     KT'^   ^^■'.(y.:  little  else  than  ordinary  salt,  the  other 

I  K.    22  —Piece  of  hning  of  fourth  g^bstances  being  in  such  small  quan- 

stom  ich     showins   cvsts   of    the   en-  ,i      .      ,i      •        ,i  ,-  ir      j.     • 

cystod   stomach  worm    (Ostertagia   tity   that   their   therapeutic   eiiect   is 
ostcrtaai).  practically  negligible.     Definite  evi- 

dence that  they  are  more  efficacious  than  plain  salt  is  not  yet  avail- 
able and  their  use  is  not  recommended. 

THE  ENCYSTED  STOMACH  WORM    (OSTERTAGIA   OSTERTAGI). 

This  parasite  is  as  thick  as  a  fine  hair  and  less  than  half  an  inch  in 
length.  It  lives  in  small  cysts  in  the  Avail  of  the  fourth  stomach 
(fig.  22)  and  is  also  found  free  in  the  cavity  of  the  stomach.     When 


ANIMAL  PARASITES  OF   CATTLE. 


529 


numerous,  these  parasites  cause  a  thickening  of  the  stomach  wall  and 
disturb  its  digestive  functions.  The  symptoms  caused  by  this  para- 
site are  very  similar  to  those  produced  by  the  twisted  stomach  worm. 
The  life  history  of  the  encysted  stomach  worm  is  not  known  in  detail, 
but  it  is  undoubtedly  very  much  the  same  as  that  of  the  twisted 
stomach  worm.  The  same 
measures  as  recommended 
above  for  preventing  in- 
fection with  the  twisted 
stomach  worm  should  be 
used.  Medicinal  treat- 
ment would  seem  to  be  of 
little  use,  owing  to  the 
protected  position  in 
which  the  parasite  occurs. 

INTESTINAL   PARASITES. 

TAPEWORMS. 

Two  species  of  tape- 
worms (fig.  23)  are  known 
to  occur  in  the  small  in- 
testine of  American  cattle. 
They  sometimes  grow  to  a 
length  of  several  yards 
and  to  a  breadth  of  three- 
fourths  of  an  inch.  Small 
portions  of  tapeworms, 
consisting  of  one  or  more 
segments,  are  occasionally 
seen  in  the  droppings  of 
infested  cattle.  The  life 
history  is  not  known,  but 
the  infectious  stage  is  un- 
doubtedly taken  in  with 
the  feed  or  water,  infec- 
tion being  spread  by  the  eggs  of  the  parasite  contained  in  the  feces 
of  infested  animals.  The  eggs  are  perhaps  swallowed  by  some  small 
creature  (an  insect,  worm,  or  snail)  which  acts  as  an  intermediate 
host,  and  which  when  accidentally  swallowed  by  a  cow  while  grazing 
or  drinking  carries  with  it  into  her  stomach  the  infectious  stage  of 
the  tapeworm. 

Adult  cattle  do  not  seem  to  suffer  much  from  infestation  with 
tapeworms,  but  in  calves  these  parasites  may  cause  scouring  and 
emaciation. 

33071°— 16 84 


Fig.  23. — A  tapeworm   {Moniezia  planissima)  which 
infests  cattle. 


530  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

Treatment. — Medicinal  treatment  for  tapeworms  in  cattle  is  usually 
unsatisfactory,  but  the  bluestone  treatment  used  for  stomach  worms 
and  mentioned  above  (p.  528)  may  be  tried.  Arsenic  in  doses  of  1^  to 
3  grains  has  been  claimed  to  give  good  results  in  the  treatment  of 
calves  for  tapeworms. 

ROUNDWORMS. 

A  large  roundworm  (Ascaris  vitidormm)  measuring  6  to  12  inches 
in  length,  sometimes  found  in  the  intestines  of  cattle,  especially 
calves,  may  cause  inflammation  and  occasionally  rupture  of  the 
intestine.  Infection  occurs  through  the  swallowing  of  the  eggs  of  the 
parasite  in  feed  or  water  which  has  been  contaminated  with  the  feces 
of  infested  cattle. 

A  number  of  species  of  small  roundworms,  varying  in  size  from  an 
eighth  of  an  inch  to  an  inch  or  more  in  length,  occur  in  the  intestines. 
Of  these  may  be  mentioned  the  hookworm  {Bunostomum  phZeboto- 
muTn)  and  the  nodular  worm  {(Esophagostomum  radmtum).  The 
former  is  about  an  inch  long  and  is  found  in  the  small  intestine.  The 
latter  are  somewhat  smaller  and  are  found  in  the  cecum  and  large 
intestine.  Hookworms,  when  numerous,  may  cause  anemia  and 
other  symptoms  similar  to  those  caused  by  stomach  worms  (see  p. 
525) .  The  injury  to  the  mucous  lining  of  the  intestine  from  the  bites 
of  hookworms  may  cause  severe  inflammation,  and  affords  an  avenue 
of  infection  with  the  germs  of  various  diseases.  The  adult  nodular 
worms  apparently  do  not  attack  the  wall  of  the  intestine,  but  derive 
their  nourishment  from  the  intestinal  contents.  Several  species  of 
small,  very  slender  roundworms  {Tr'wJwstrongijlus)^  less  than  a 
quarter  of  an  inch  in  length,  sometimes  occur  in  the  small  intestine 
and  fourth  stomach,  and  a  severe  gastroenteritis,  or  inflammation  of 
the  stomach  and  intestines,  has  been  attributed  to  them. 

Nodular  disease  of  the  intestine,  due  to  young  nodular  worms 
which  burrow  in  the  intestinal  wall  during  a  certain  stage  in  their 
life  history,  sometimes  apparently  produces  serious  effects,  particu- 
larly in  young  cattle,  but  commonly  has  little  or  no  perceptible  influ- 
ence on  the  general  health.  It,  however,  often  renders  the  intestine 
unfit  for  use  as  sausage  casings,  and  as  it  is  widely  prevalent  among 
cattle  the  loss  from  this  source  is  considerable.  The  gi-eenish  or 
yellowish  nodules  with  cheesy  contents  are  frequently  mistaken  by 
the  inexperienced  for  lesions  of  tuberculosis. 

The  life  histories  of  the  various  small  roundworms  occurring  in 
the  intestines  of  cattle,  so  far  as  they  have  been  worked  out,  are 
very  similar  to  that  of  the  twisted  stomach  worm  as  described  on 
page  525. 


ANIMAL  PARASITES   OF    CATTLE. 


531 


Treatment  for  intestinal  roundworms. — The  preventive  measures 
are  similar  to  those  recommended  in  the  case  of  the  twisted  stomach 
worm  (p.  526).  Medical  treatment  is  generally  not  very  satisfac- 
tory. Powdered  thymol,  in  doses  of  200  grains  or  more,  has  been 
recommended,  but  it  often  fails  to  have  the  desired  result.  It  is 
asserted  by  one  author  that  2  or  3  drams  of  rectified  empyreumatic 
oil  in  a  mucilaginous  emulsion,  followed  the  next  morning  with  a 
purgative  of  1  to  1|  pounds  of  sulphate  of  soda,  will  expel  the  large 
roundworms  {Ascarls  vitulorum). 

PROTOZOA. 

A  number  of  species  of  protozoa  have  been  reported  as  parasites  of 
the  intestines  of  cattle.  To  one  species  has  been  attributed  a  serious 
disease  of  cattle  in  Switzerland  known  as  red  dysentery,  but  so  far 
no  cases  of  this  disease  in  American  cattle  have  been  reported. 


Fig.  24. — The  com- 
mon liver  fluke 
(Fasciola  hepat- 
ica). 


FLUKES  IN  LIVER  AND  LUNGS. 

Two  species  of  flukes  occurring  in  the  liver  and  lungs  are  known 
to  affect  cattle  in  the  United  States.  These  parasites  are  flat,  leaf- 
like worms;  one  of  them,  the  common  liver  fluke 
{Fasciola  hepatica,  fig.  24),  is  less  than  an  inch  in 
length,  while  the  other,  the  large  American  fluke 
(Fasciola  magna,  fig.  25) ,  is  considerably  larger  when 
full  grown.  In  their  life  history  these  flukes  depend 
on  snails  as  intermediate  hosts.  At  a  certain  stage 
of  development  the  young  flukes  leave  the  snails, 
become  encysted  on  stalks  of  grass  (fig,  26),  or  fall  into  drinking 
water,  and  finally  may  be  swallowed  by  cattle.  Stiles  writes  as 
follows : 

Flukes  may  produce  a  serious,  often  fatal,  disease,  more  especially  in  younger 
animals.     The  symptoms  are  somewhat  similar  to  those  produced  by  worms  in 

tlie  stomach.    The  first  symp- 

'"•.^'y&l^^^  "^^Jf^si^  toms  are  generally  overlooked, 

the  disease  not  attracting  at- 
tention until  the  appetite  is 
diminished ;  rumination  be- 
comes irregular,  the  animals 
become  hidebound,  and  the 
coat  dull  and  staring.  The 
staring  coat  is  due  to  the 
contraction  of  the  muscles  of 
the  hair  follicles.  The  visible  mucous  membranes  become  pale,  eyes  become 
dull,  there  is  running  at  the  eyes,  and  the  animal  gradually  becomes  emaciated. 
As  the  disease  advances  the  milk  supply  is  lessened,  fever  appears,  there  is 
generally  great  thirst,  but  the  appetite  almost  ceases ;  edematous  swellings 
appear  on  the  belly,  breast,  etc. ;  diarrhea  at  first  alternates  with  constipation. 


Fig.  25. — The  large  American  fluke  (Fasciola  magna). 


532 


DISEASES    OF    CATTLE. 


but  finally  becomes  continuous.     The  disease  lusts  from  two  to  five  months, 
when  the  most  extreme  cases  succumb. 

Most  of  the  German  cattle  are  said  to  be  infested  with  liver  flukes,  but  even 
when  a  large  number  are  present  the  nourishment  of  the  cattle  is  not  dis- 
turbed. Thickening  of  the  gall  ducts,  so  that  a  so-called  "  Medusa's  head " 
forms  on  the  surface  of  the  liver  toward  the  stomach,  appears  in  even  well- 
nourished  animals ;  even  in  cases  of  a  cirrhosis  of  the  liver  it  is  seldom  that 
any  effect  upon  the  cattle's  health  can  be  noticed,  and  so  long  as  a  portion  of 
the  liver  tissue  about  twice  the  size  of  the  fist  remains  intact,  the  nourish- 
ment of  the  animal  may  be  comparatively  good.  It  is  rare  that  one  sees  a 
generalized  edema  in  slaughtered  cattle  as  a  result  of  fluke  invasion,  and  even 
in  the  heaviest  infections  of  young  cattle  only  emaciation  is  noticed. 

Treatment. — Medicinal  treatment  is  unsatisfactory.  The  disease  may  be 
]irevented  to  a  considerable  extent  by  giving  animals  plenty  of  salt,  and  by 

introducing  carp,  frogs,  and 
toads  into  infected  dis- 
tricts ;  these  animals  de- 
stroy the  young  stages  of 
the  parasite  and  feed  upon 
the  snails  which  serve  as 
intermediate  hosts. 

The  drainage  of  wet 
pastures  and  the  avoid- 
ance of  swampy  lands 
for  grazing  purposes 
are  important  measures 
in  the  prevention  of 
fluke  diseases. 

Railliet  and  others 
have  recently  recom- 
mended the  application 
of  lime  to  fluky  pas- 
tures, having  discovered  that  very  weak  solutions  are  destructive  not 
only  to  fluke  embryos  but  to  snails.  This  application  is  to  be  made 
during  the  summer  months  at  the  rate  of  about  500  to  1,000  pounds 
of  lime  per  acre.  The  same  authors  also  recommend  for  the  treat- 
ment of  fluke  disease  extract  of  male  fern  in  doses  of  5  gi-ams  to 
each  30  kilograms  of  body  weight.  Apparently,  however,  satisfac- 
tory results  from  this  treatment  are  not  always  obtained. 

TAPEWORM  CYSTS  OF  LIVER  AND  OTHER  VISCERA. 

Three  kinds  of  tapeworm  cysts  are  found  in  the  viscera  of  cattle. 
One  of  these  (Multiceps  muUiceps,  or  Ccermrus  cerebralis)  will  be 
further  referred  to  in  the  discussion  of  gid  (p.  533).  All  these  are 
the  intermediate  stages  of  tapeworms,  which  live  when  mature  in  the 
intestines  of  dogs,  wolves,  and  other  canines.  The  eggs  of  the  tape- 
worms lire  scattered  over  the  fields  in  the  droppings  of  infested  dogs 
or  wolves,  niul  when  swallowed  in  food  or  water  by  cattle  hatch  out 


Fig.  26. — Portion  of  grass  stalk  bearing  three  encysted 
cercarise  of  the  common  liver  flulce  (Fasciola  hepatica) . 
Enlarged. 


ANIMAL  PARASITES  OF  CATTLE. 


533 


and  the  embryos  migrate  to  the  liver,  mesentery,  hings,  brain,  or 
other  organs,  where  they  develop  into  cysts,  variously  known  as 
hydatids,  bladder  w^orms,  water  balls,  etc.  When  organs  of  cattle 
thus  infested  are  eaten  by  dogs  or  wolves  the  cystic  worms  are  also 
liable  to  be  swallowed  and  then  develop  into  mature  tapeworms.  To 
prevent  cattle  from  infection  with  these  parasites  stray  dogs,  wolves, 
and  coyotes  should  be  killed  wherever  found,  and  dogs  too  valuable  to 
kill  should  be  kept  free  from  tapeworms.  As  a  precaution  against 
infection  with  tapeworms,  the  viscera  of  cattle,  sheep,  or  hogs  should 
not  be  fed  to  dogs  unless  cooked. 

Hydatids    {Echinococcus  granulosus)    form  tumors    (fig.  27)    of 
varying  size    (sometimes  as  large  as  6  inches  in  diameter)   in  the 


Fig.  27. — Hydatids  {Echinococcus  granulosus)  in  portion  of  hog's  liver. 


liver,  lungs,  and  other  organs.  Their  contents  are  liquid,  resembling 
water.  The  presence  of  these  parasites  can  not  be  detected  in  the 
living  animal  and  there  is  no  medicinal  treatment  for  them.  Or- 
gans containing  hydatids  should  be  destroyed  by  burning  in  order  to 
prevent  their  being  e^ten  by  dogs.  This  is  especially  important,  as 
dogs  infested  with  the  tapeworm  stage  of  this  parasite  are  a  menace 
to  human  beings  on  account  of  the  danger  of  infecting  them  with 
hydatids,  which  develop  in  man  if  the  eggs  of  the  hydatid  tapeworm 
are  swallowed. 

Thin-necked  bladder  worms  {Taenia  hydatigena^  fig.  28)  are  most 
commonly  found  attached  to  the  mesentery  and  omentum.  There  is 
no  medicinal  treatment. 

GiD. — Bladder  worms  {MuUiceps  m/uUiceps,  or  Cmnurus  cerehralis) , 
which  are  occasionally  found  in  the  brain  of  cattle  and  cause  gid. 


534  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

"  turnsick,"  or  "  staggers,''  deserve  mention,  as  they  are  rather  com- 
mon among  sheep  in  the  northwest.  As  already  alhided  to,  these 
worms  are  the  intermediate  stage  of  a  tapeworm  found  in  dogs,  and 
their  life  history  and  the  means  of  preventing  infection  have  been 
briefly  discussed  above  (see  p.  532). 

Cattle  harboring  this  parasite  show  symptoms  indicating  an  affec- 
tion of  the  brain,  walking  or  turning  in  circles,  dizziness,  uneven 
gait,  impaired  vision,  etc. 

Treatment  consists  in  trephining  the  skull  and  removing  the  para- 
site, an  operation  which  requires  a  skillful  operator  and  is  frequently 
unsuccessful.  Unless  the  parasite  is  removed  affected  cattle  almost 
invariably  die. 

TAPEWORM  CYSTS  IN  THE  MUSCLES,  BEEF  MEASLES.* 

Small  tapeworm  cysts  (Tcenia  saginata)^  about  the  size  of  a  pea, 
found  in  the  muscles  of  cattle  are  the  larvae  of  the  common  tapeworm 
of  man.  Cattle  become  infected  from  feed  or 
water  which  has  been  contaminated  by  the  feces 
of  persons  harboring  the  adult  tapeworms,  and 
human  beings  in  turn  become  infected  by  eating 
raw  or  rare  beef  infested  with  the  larval  stage 
(measly  beef). 

To  prevent  cattle  from  becoming  infested  with 
this  parasite  care  should  be  taken  that  human 
feces  are  not  placed  Avhere  they  wall  contaminate 
^'^i   28.-Thin-necked    ^j     f  ^        drinking  Water. 

bladder  worm  (Twma  _  _  => 

hydattgena)  trom  Bh-  This  parasite  is  very  common  in  cattle  in  the 
^ZT^  '^'''''  ^"^  ^  United  States,  at  least  1  per  cent  being  infested. 
x\s  a  result  considerable  loss  is  entailed  through 
condemnations  of  beef  carcasses  by  meat  inspectors,  because  of  the 
presence  of  tapeworm  cysts.  All  this  loss  could  be  avoided  and 
the  danger  of  tapeworm  infestation  in  human  beings  from  this 
source  could  be  removed  by  the  observance  of  proper  precautions  in 
disposing  of  human  excreta.  At  the  same  time  much  sickness  and 
many  deaths  from  diseases  (hookworm,  typhoid  fever,  etc.)  caused  by 
soil  pollution  would  be  prevented,  and  farm  life  would  be  rendered 
much  safer  than  under  the  poor  sanitary  conditions  which  are  re- 
sponsible for  the  high  percentage  of  tapeworm  cysts  among  cattle 
in  the  United  States. 

THREAD  WORMS  IN  THE  ABDOMINAL  CAVITY. 

Thread  worms  {Setaria  lahiato-papillosa)  2  to  4  inches  long  are 
frequently  found  in  the  abdominal  cavity.  They  seem  to  cause  little 
or  no  trouble.     The  embryos  produced  by  these  worms  enter  the 

1  For  further  information  consult  Bureau  of  Animal  Industry  Circular  214. 


ANIMAL  PARASITES  OF  CATTLE.  535 

blood  vessels.  According  to  Noe,  they  are  spread  from  one  animal 
to  another  by  stable  flies  (see  p.  511).  The  roundworms  found  oc- 
casionally in  the  anterior  chamber  of  the  eye  (see  p.  536)  are  per- 
haps immature  forms  of  this  species  which  have  reached  this  location 
during  their  migration. 

LUNG  WORMS. 

Lung  worms  {Dictyocaulus  viviparus,  fig.  29)  in  cattle  are  thread- 
like worms  2  to  4  inches  long,  found  in  the  bronchial  tubes  and 
producing  a  condition  known  as  verminous  bronchitis.  The  life 
history  of  the  parasite  is  not  fully  known,  but  infection  is  evidently 
derived  through  the  medium  of  pastures  where  infested  cattle  have 
grazed.  In  the  later  stages  of  the  disease  the  cattle  cough,  especially 
at  night.     Young  cattle  are  more  seriously  affected  than  old  animals. 

Treatment  for  lung  worms. — Various  treatments  have  been  advo- 
cated for  lung  worms,  including  fumigating  with  different  substances 
and  injections  of  remedies  into  the 
trachea  by  means  of  a  large  hypo- 
dermic syringe  or  by  a  special 
spraying  apparatus,  but  none  has 
been  very  successful  from  a  prac- 
tical standpoint.     About  all  that 

can  be  done  is  to  feed  affected  ani-  Fig.  29. — Lung  worm  (Dictyocaulus  vivi- 
Tnilq   wpll    nnd    nrnfprt   thpni    frnm  Parus)  of  cattle.    Outlines  showing  nat- 

mais  wen  ana  protect  inem  rrom        ^^.^j  ^j^^  ^^  ^^^j^  (above)  and  female. 
exposure,  removing  them  from  the 

pasture  and  keeping  them  in  dry  yards  or  stables  maintained  in  a 
cleanly,  sanitary  condition. 

The  methods  of  prevention  in  general  are  similar  to  those  described 
under  the  discussion  of  the  twisted  stomach  worm  (p.  526). 

PARASITES  OF  THE  BLOOD. 

Certain  flukes  (Schistosoma  bovis  and  related  species)  which  live 
in  the  blood  vessels  (the  large  veins)  of  cattle  in  tropical  and  sub- 
tropical countries  cause  bloody  urine  and  diarrhea,  the  feces  being 
mixed  with  blood.  These  parasites  have  not  yet  been  discovered  in 
the  United  States,  although  the  natural  conditions  are  such  in  some 
parts  of  the  country  that  they  are  liable  to  become  established  if 
introduced. 

The  embryos  of  Setaria  labiato-papHlosa  (p.  534)  which  occur  in 
the  blood  may  be  found  by  microscopical  examination.  They  ap- 
parently cause  no  trouble. 

The  organism  which  causes  Texas  fever  is  a  protozoan  parasite 
{Piroplasma  higeminum)  of  microscopic  size,  which  lives  in  the  blood 


536  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

and  attacks  the  red  blood  corpuscles.     For  a  discussion  of  this  para- 
site and  the  disease  which  it  produces  see  page  473  of  this  volume. 

Other  parasites  which  live  in  the  blood  cause  serious  diseases  known 
as  surra  and  nagana  (p.  508) ,  but  as  yet  neither  of  these  diseases  has 
gained  a  foothold  in  the  United  States. 

PARASITES  OF  THE  EYE. 

Small  roundworms,  one-third  to  four-fifths  of  an  inch  in  length, 
may  occur  in  the  ducts  of  the  lacrimal  glands.  Several  species  all 
belonging  to  the  same  genus  {Thelazia)  are  known.  They  some- 
times escape  from  their  usual  location  and  may  be  found  on  the  sur- 
face of  the  eyeball  beneath  the  lids,  or  even  in  the  eyeball.  It  has 
been  supposed  by  some  writers  that  the  worms  seen  in  the  interior 
of  the  eyeball  ("snakes  in  the  eye")  are  immature  stages  of  Setaria 
lahiato-papillosa  (see  p.  534)  which  have  gone  astray  from  the  normal 
course  of  their  migration,  but  the  correctness  of  this  supposition  is 
uncertain. 

Worms  in  the  eyes  and  lacrimal  ducts  may  cause  inflammation,  in 
which  case  the  eyes  may  be  syringed  with  an  antiseptic,  such  as  a 
weak  solution  of  coal-tar  stock  dip,  and  iodoform  ointment  applied 
if  the  condition  is  severe. 

When  worms  are  present  in  the  eyeball  itself,  their  removal  de- 
pends upon  surgical  treatment,  usually  not  advisable,  as  the  worms  in 
that  location  either  cause  but  little  trouble  or  disappear  withorit 
treatment. 


MYCOTIC  STOMATITIS  OF  CATTLE. 

By  John  R.  Mohler,  V.  M.  D., 
Assistant  Chief,  Bureau  of  Animal  Industry. 

INTRODUCTION. 

Niimeroiis  letters  have  been  received  by  this  bureau  in  recent  years 
relative  to  the  existence  of  a  disease  affecting  the  mouths  and  feet  of 
cattle  in  certain  Eastern  and  Central  Western  States.  Later  reports 
indicate  that  the  malady  has  made  its  appearance  in  the  Southwest, 
where  it  has  caused  much  alarm  among  the  stockmen  owing  to  its 
similarity  to  the  foot-and-mouth  disease  of  Europe.  The  disease, 
which  is  to  be  discussed  under  the  name  of  mycotic  stomatitis,  has 
been  carefully  investigated  by  this  department  on  various  occasions, 
and  it  is  with  the  view  of  giving  the  results  of  these  clinical  investi- 
gations as  well  as  to  assert  its  noninfectiousness  and  to  differentiate 
it  from  the  virulent  foot-and-mouth  disease,  which  it  so  closely  simu- 
lates, that  this  article  is  prepared. 

NAME  AND  SYNONYMS. 

The  name  stomatitis  signifies  that  there  is  present  in  the  affected 
animals  an  inflammation  of  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth. 
This  inflammation,  which  quickly  develops  into  ulcers,  is  one  of  the 
principal  and  most  frequently  observed  lesions.  Mycotic  stomatitis 
refers  to  that  form  of  stomatitis  which  results  from  eating  food  con- 
taining irritant  fungi.  Thus  the  name  hot  only  suggests  the  cause  of 
the  disease,  but  also  indicates  the  location  of  the  earliest  and  most 
prominent  symptoms.  Other  names  which  have  been  applied  to  this 
disease  by  different  writers  are  sporadic  aphthae;  aphthous  stoma- 
titis; sore  mouth  of  cattle;  sore  tongue;  benign,  simple,  or  noninfec- 
tious foot-and-mouth  disease;  mycotic  aphthous  stomatitis;  and 
sporadic  stomatitis  aphthosa. 

CHARACTER  OF  THE  DISEASE. 

Mycotic  stomatitis  is  a  sporadic,  or  noninfectious,  disease  which 
affects  cattle  of  all  ages  that  are  on  pasture,  but  more  especially 
milch  cows.  It  is  characterized  by  inflammation  and  ulceration  of 
the  mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth,  producing  salivation  and  in- 
appetence,  and  secondarily  affecting  the  feet,  which  become  sore  and 
swollen.    Superficial  erosions  of  the  skin,  particularly  of  the  muzzle 

537 


538  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

and  of  the  teats  and  udders  of  cows,  may  also  be  present,  with  some 
elevation  of  temperature  and  emaciation. 

CAUSE. 

This  disease,  as  its  name  indicates,  results  from  the  eating  of  forage 
containing  fungi  or  molds.  It  is  probable  that  more  than  one  fungus 
is  involved  in  the  production  of  this  disease,  but  no  particular  species 
has  been  definitely  proved  to  be  the  causative  factor.  Several  at- 
tempts have  been  made  by  the  writer  to  determine  the  exact  cause 
and  also  to  transmit  the  disease  to  other  animals  by  direct  inocula- 
tion, but  with  negative  results.  Suspicion,  however,  has  been  directed 
by  various  observers  to  the  Uromyces  and  the  red  and  black  rusts 
that  occur  on  clovers.  These  fungi  cause  very  severe  irritation  of  the 
lining  membrane  of  the  mouth,  producing  sometimes  a  catarrhal,  at 
other  times  an  aphthous,  and  occasionally  an  ulcerous  stomatitis. 
The  fungus  of  rape,  etc.  {Polydesirms  excitiosus),  is  very  irritating  to 
the  mouths  and  feet  of  cattle,  causing  severe  inflammation  and  in 
some  instances  producing  symptoms  that  have  been  mistaken  for 
foot-and-mouth  disease.  The  fungi  (Penicillium  and  Puccinia) 
found  on  grasses  have  also  been  credited  with  the  production  of 
stomatitis.  The  fact  that  this  disease  disappears  from  a  locality  at 
a  certain  time  and  reappears  at  irregular  intervals  would  suggest  the 
probability  that  certain  climatic  conditions  were  essential  for  the 
propagation  of  the  causative  fungi,  since  it  is  well  known  that  the 
malady  becomes  prevalent  after  a  hot,  dry  period  has  been  followed 
by  rain,  thus  furnishing  the  requirements  necessary  for  the  luxuriant 
development  of  molds  and  fungi.  Owing  to  this  fact  the  disease  is 
observed  in  one  locality  during  one  season  and  in  an  entirely  dif- 
ferent section  another  year,  but  reappears  in  the  former  center  when 
favorable  conditions  prevail.  In  this  way  the  affection  has  occurred 
at  irregular  intervals  in  certain  sections  of  both  the  United  States 
and  Canada. 

SYMPTOMS  AND  LESIONS. 

Among  the  first  symptoms  observed  in  mycotic  stomatitis  are 
inability  to  eat,  suspension  of  rumination,  frequent  movements  of 
the  lips  with  the  formation  of  froth  on  their  margins,  and  in  some 
cases  a  dribbling  of  saliva  from  the  mouth.  There  is  a  desire  to  eat, 
and  frequent  attempts  to  take  food  are  made,  but  prehension  is  verj'' 
difficult.  If,  however,  feed  is  placed  on  the  back  of  the  tongue,  it  is 
readily  masticated  and  swallowed.  If  the  mouth  is  examined  at  this 
time,  it  will  be  found  red  and  hot,  and  exceptionally  small  blisters 
will  be  seen,  which,  however,  quickly  become  eroded  and  develop  into 
active  ulcers  varying  in  size  from  one-eighth  to  1  inch  in  diameter. 
Where  several  ulcers  have  coalesced  a  large  and  irregularly  indented 


MYCOTIC    STOMATITIS.  539 

patch  is  formed.  These  erosions  are  most  frequently  found  on  the 
gums  around  the  incisor  teeth,  on  the  dental  pad,  inside  the  lips, 
and  on  the  tip  of  the  tongue,  but  they  also  occur  on  the  cheeks,  inter- 
dental space,  and  dorsum  of  the  tongue.  The  ulcers  have  a  hemor- 
rhagic border,  a  depressed  suppurating  surface,  and  contain  a  brown- 
ish or  yellowish  colored  debris,  w^hich  is  soon  replaced  by  granulation 
tissue.  As  a  result  of  this  sloughing  of  the  tissues  and  the  retention 
of  food  in  the  mouth,  a  very  offensive  odor  is  exhaled.  The  muzzle 
becomes  dry  and  parched  in  appearance,  which  condition  is  shortly 
followed  by  erosions  and  exfoliations  of  the  superficial  layer  of  the 
skin.  Adherent  brownish  crusts  and  scabs  form  over  the  parts,  and 
similar  lesions  are  seen  around  the  nostrils  and  external  surface  of 
the  lips. 

In  some  cases  there  are  associated  with  these  alterations  a  slight 
swelling  and  painfulness  in  the  region  of  the  pasterns,  at  times 
affecting  the  forefeet,  at  other  times  the  hind  feet,  and  occasionally 
all  four  feet.  In  a  few  cases  the  swelling  may  extend  above  the  fet- 
lock, but  it  has  never  been  observed  above  the  knee  or  hock.  The 
skin  around  the  coronet  may  occasionally  become  fissured  and  the 
thin  skin  in  the  cleft  of  the  foot  eroded  and  suppurated,  but  without 
the  formation  of  vesicles.  As  a  result  of  these  feet  lesions,  the 
affected  animal  may  assume  a  position  w^ith  its  back  arched  and  the 
limbs  propped  under  the  body  as  in  a  case  of  founder,  and  will 
manifest  much  pain  and  lameness  in  walking.  If  it  lies  down,  the 
animal  shows  reluctance  in  getting  up,  and  although  manifesting  no 
inclination  to  move  about,  when  forced  to  do  so  there  is  more  or 
less  stiffness  and  a  tendency  to  kick  or  shake  the  foot  as  if  to  dislodge 
a  foreign  body  from  between  the  claws. 

In  some  outbreaks  the  milch  cows  have  slight  superficial  erosions 
on  the  teats  which  at  times  extend  to  the  udder.  The  cracks  in  the 
skin  are  filled  with  serum  and  form  brownish-colored  scabs.  The 
teats  become  tender  and  the  milk  secretion  diminishes ;  in  some  cases 
it  disappears.  A  similar  tendency  toward  the  formation  of  fissures 
and  scabs  on  the  skin  of  the  neck  and  shoulders  has  manifested  itself 
in  a  recent  outbreak  in  Texas,  and  this  feature  was  likewise  notice- 
able in  the  disease  when  it  occurred  in  Maryland  and  Virginia  in 
1889. 

In  mild  cases  only  the  mouth  lesions  may  be  observed,  or  these 
alterations  may  be  associated  wdth  one  or  more  of  the  other  above- 
described  symptoms,  but  in  severe  cases,  where  there  is  a  generalized 
mycotic  intoxication,  one  animal  may  show  all  these  alterations. 
When  the  disease  is  well  developed  the  general  appearance  of  the 
animal  is  one  of  great  lassitude,  and  it  either  stands  off  by  itself 
with  hind  feet  drawn  under  the  body  and  its  forefeet  extended,  or  it 
assumes  a  recumbent  position.     Owing  to  the  inability  to  eat  and  to 


540  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

the  general  systematic  disturbance  present,  the  animal  loses  flesh  very 
rapidly  and  becomes  greatly  emaciated  in  the  latter  stages  of  the  dis- 
ease. The  temperature  and  pulse  are  somewhat  increased,  the  former 
2  or  3  degrees,  the  latter  to  from  75  to  90  beats  per  minute.  The 
fever  is  not  lasting,  and  these  symptoms  are  soon  modified.  The 
animal  has  an  anxious  look,  and  in  a  few  cases  there  is  a  gastrointes- 
tinal irritation,  the  feces  being  thin,  of  a  dark  color,  and  of  an  oflFen- 
sive  odor, 

PROGNOSIS  AND  MORTALITY. 

Mycotic  stomatitis  is  not  a  serious  disease,  and  in  uncomplicated 
cases  recoveries  soon  follow  the  removal  of  the  cause  and  the  appli- 
cation of  the  indicated  remedies.  In  such  cases  complete  restoration 
may  take  place  within  one  week.  In  mild  outbreaks  a  large  percent- 
age of  the  animals  will  recover  without  treatment,  but  that  the  dis- 
ease is  fatal  is  shown  by  the  fact  that  animals  w^hich  develop  an 
aggravated  form  of  the  affection  succumb  if  not  treated.  In  such 
animals  death  occurs  in  6  or  8  days,  but  the  mortality  in  the  serious 
outbreaks  thus  far  investigated  has  been  less  than  0.5  per  cent.  The 
course  of  this  disease  is  irregular  and  runs  from  7  to  15  days,  the 
average  case  covering  a  period  of  about  10  days. 

DIFFERENTIAL  DIAGNOSIS. 
FOOT-AND-MOUTH  DISEASE. 

In  examining  a  case  of  mycotic  stomatitis  it  is  important  not  to 
mistake  it  for  foot-and-mouth  disease,  which  has  appeared  in  this 
country  on  six  occasions  only.  This  may  be  easily  accomplished  by 
taking  into  consideration  the  fact  that  in  the  contagious  foot-and- 
mouth  disease  there  is  a  rapid  infection  of  the  entire  herd,  as  well  as 
of  any  hogs  and  sheep  that  may  be  on  the  premises.  It  is  also  readily 
transmitted  to  neighboring  herds  by  the  spread  of  the  infection  from 
diseased  animals,  but  it  never  occurs  spontaneously.  The  character- 
istic lesion  of  foot-and-mouth  disease  is  the  appearance  of  vesicles 
containing  serous  fluid  in  the  mouth  and  upon  the  udder,  teats,  heels, 
and  coronary  bands  of  the  affected  animals.  Drooling  is  profuse, 
and  there  is  a  peculiar  smacking  sound  made  by  sucking  the  affected 
lips. 

Mycotic  stomatitis  occurs  sporadically  on  widely  separated  farms, 
affecting  only  a  few  animals  in  each  herd,  and  the  lesions  produced 
consist  of  erosions  without  the  typical  vesicular  formations  of  foot- 
and-mouth  disease.  The  failure  of  the  vesicles,  if  any  appear,  to 
spread  extensively  in  the  mouth,  the  absence  of  these  blisters  on 
other  portions  of  the  body — notably  the  teats  and  udder,  and  char- 
acteristically the  feet — together  with  the  absence  of  infection  in  the 
herd,  and  the  inability  to  transmit  the  disease  to  calves  by  inocula- 


MYCOTIC    STOMATITIS.  541 

tion,  distinguish  between  this  affection  and  foot-and-mouth  disease. 
The  erosions  of  the  mouth  are  not  so  extensive  and  they  heal  more 
rapidly  in  mycotic  stomatitis.  The  swelling  of  the  feet  and  stiffness 
of  the  animal  are  also  more  marked  in  mycotic  stomatitis. 

ERGOTISM. 

The  lesions  resulting  from  ergotism  may  be  differentiated  from 
those  of  mycotic  stomatitis  by  the  lack  of  ulcerative  eruptions  in  the 
mouth  and  by  the  location  of  the  lesions  at  the  tips  of  the  ears,  end  of 
the  tail,  or  upon  the  lower  part  of  the  legs,  usually  below  the  knees  or 
hocks.  The  lesions  of  ergotism  do  not  take  the  form  of  ulcers  or 
festers,  but  the  end  of  the  limb  affected  is  diseased  "  in  toto  "  and  the 
eruption  extends  entirely  around  the  limbs,  followed  soon  afterwards 
by  a  distinct  line  of  demarcation  between  the  healthy  skin  above  and 
the  diseased  below.  The  absence  of  suppurating  sores  between  the 
claws  and  on  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth,  the  knowledge  that 
the  lesion  upon  the  limb  in  question  extends  uninterruptedly  around 
it,  and  the  presence  of  ergotized  seeds  in  the  hay  or  grain  fed  the 
animals  should  point  conclusively  to  a  diag-nosis  of  ergotism. 

FOUL   FOOT. 

In  foul  foot,  or  ground  itch,  of  cattle,  the  inflammation  of  the  skin 
and  toes  usually  affects  but  one  foot.  It  begins  as  a  superficial 
inflammation  followed  by  sloughing,  ulceration,  and  the  formation  of 
fistulous  tracts  which  may  involve  the  tendons,  bones,  and  joints. 
The  mouth  remains  unaffected,  and  the  presence  of  the  disease  may 
be  traced  to  filth  and  poor  drainage. 

NECROTIC  STOMATITIS. 

In  necrotic  stomatitis  (calf  diphtheria)  there  is  a  formation  of 
yellowish  cheesy  patches  in  the  mouth  without  any  lesions  of  the 
feet  or  udder.  It  affects  sucking  calves  chiefly,  and  is  caused  by  the 
Bacillus  necroyhoTus. 

TREATMENT. 

The  treatment  of  mycotic  stomatitis  should  consist  in  first  remov- 
ing the  herd  of  cattle  from  the  pasture  in  which  they  have  been 
running.  The  affected  animals  should,  if  it  is  possible,  be  brought 
to  the  barn  or  corral  and  fed  on  soft,  nutritious  food,  such  as  bran 
mashes,  ground  feed,  and  gruels.  A  bucket  of  clear,  cool  water  should 
be  kept  constantly  in  the  manger,  so  that  the  animal  may  drink 
or  rinse  the  mouth  at  its  pleasure;  and  it  will  be  found  beneficial 
to  dissolve  2  heaping  tablespoonfuls  of  borax  or  1  tablespoonful  of 
potassium  chlorate  in  each  of  the  first  two  buckets  of  water  taken 


542  DISEASES  OF   CATTLE. 

during  the  day.  If  the  animals  are  gentle  enough  to  be  handled, 
the  mouth  should  be  swabbed  out  daily  with  antiseptic  washes,  such 
as  a  2  per  cent  solution  of  carbolic  acid  or  a  1  per  cent  solution 
of  lysol  or  of  permanganate  of  potassium,  or  1  part  of  hydrogen 
peroxid  to  2  parts  of  water.  This  should  be  followed  by  astringents, 
such  as  one-half  tablespoonf  ul  of  alum,  borax,  or  chlorate  of  potassium 
placed  on  the  tongue.  Probably  a  more  satisfactory  method  of  ad- 
ministering the  antiseptic  treatment  to  a  large  number  of  animals 
would  be  to  mix  thoroughly  2  teaspoonfuls  of  pure  carbolic  acid 
every  morning  in  a  quart  of  bran  mash  and  give  to  each  affected 
animal  for  a  period  of  five  days.  Range  cattle  may  be  more  readily 
treated  by  the  use  of  medicated  salt  placed  in  troughs  accessible  to 
the  animals.  This  salt  may  be  prepared  by  pouring  4  ounces  of 
crude  carbolic  acid  upon  12  quarts  of  ordinary  barrel  salt,  after 
which  they  are  thoroughly  mixed.  The  lesions  of  the  feet  should 
be  treated  with  a  2  j)er  cent  solution  of  carbolic  acid,  while  the 
fissures  and  other  lesions  of  the  skin  will  be  benefited  by  the 
application  of  carbolized  vaseline  or  zinc  ointment.  If  the  ani- 
mals are  treated  in  this  manner  and  carefully  fed,  the  disease  will 
rapidly  disappear. 


INDEX. 


Abdomen —  Page. 

dropsy  affecting,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 47 

inflammation,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 222 

of  calf,  dropsy,  description,  and  treatment 178-179 

wounds,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 43 

Abdominal  cavity,  kinds  of  parasites  affecting 533 

Abortion — 

contagious — 

description    and    causes 165 

prevention  and  treatment 168 

noncontagious — 

causes 163 

treatment 165 

Abscess — 

bacteria  causing 235 

ear,    treatment 353 

lung,    description 97 

navel,  cause  and  treatment 247 

orbital  and  periorbital,  symptoms  and  treatment 350 

Abscesses — 

danger  in  castration  of  cattle 298 

tresatmeut 293 

Absorbents,   description 73 

Achorion  sclwnleinii,  fungus  causing  Tinea  favosa 330 

Acids — 

mineral,  poisoning,  description  and  treatment 58 

poisoning,  description  and  treatment 58 

vegetable,  poisonous,  description  and  treatment 58 

Aconite  poisoning,  description  and  treatment 63 

Actinomycosis — 

description  and  symptoms 438-447 

jawbone,  description  and  treatment 441 

lung^ 441 

prevention  and  treatment 443-447 

relation  to  public  health 445 

Adenoma,   description 308 

Administration  of  medicines,  chapter  by  Leonard  Pearson 7-11 

Afterbirth,  retention,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 218 

Air  tubes,  lung,  parasites  aifecting,  description  and  treatment 535 

Air  under  the  sliin,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 332 

Albumin,  urine,  description  and  treatment 119 

Albuminuria,   description  and   treatment 119 

Alkalies,  poisoning,  description  and  treatment 59 

Amaurosis,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 346 

Anaphrodisia,  cause,  prevention,  and  treatment 147 

Anasarca  of  the  skin,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 328 

Anesthesia,  uses  in  operations 287 

Aneurism,    description 83 

Angioma  tumor,  description 308 

Animal  Industry  Bureau,  experiments  against  hemorrhagic  septicemia.-  399 

Animal  parasites  of  cattle,  chapter  by  B.  H.  Ransom 510-536 

Animal  products,  poisonous,  description  and  treatment 69 

Anthrax — 

cause,  symptoms,  treatment,  etc 447-456 

human,  description 456 

serum,  relation  to  blackleg 456 

symptomatic,  description,  cause,  treatment,  etc 457-462 

treatment  by  use  of  serum 453 

543 


544  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

Page. 

Aphtha,  calf,  description  and  treatment 261 

Aphtha  parasite   (Saccharomyces  albicans),  cause 261 

Aplithous  fever.     See  Foot-and-mouth  disease. 

Aphthous   stomatitis,   reference ."»37 

Apoplexy — • 

cerebral,  description  and  treatment 104 

parturient,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 224 

Appetite — 

depraved,  description,  causes  and  treatment 28 

loss,  symptom  of  foot-and-mouth  disease 381 

Aqueous  humor  of  eye,  description 339 

Argentina,  foot-and-mouth  disease 384 

Arsenic  poisoning,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 54 

Arsenical  dips — 

for  destroying  cattle  ticlis 496 

use  against  screw  worms 514 

Arsenical  vapor,  danger  of  inhalation  in  maliing  cattle  dip_ 497 

Arteries — 

and  veins,  wounds,  description  and  treatment 81 

obstruction,  description  and  treatment 83 

Ascaris  vitulorum,  intestinal  roundworm,  description  and  treatment 530 

Ascites — 

causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 47 

description  and  treatment 178 

Asepsis  in  surgical  operations 287 

Aseptic  periostitis,  description  and  treatment 264 

Asphyxia  electrica,  sji-mptoms  and  treatment 109 

Atkinson,  V.  T. — 

chapter  on  "  Bones :  Diseases  and  accidents  " 262-286 

chapter  on  "  Poisons  and  poisoning  " 51-70 

Atrophy,  description 80,  126 

Auscultation,  definition 89 

Austria-Hungary,  foot-and-mouth  disease 384 

Bacillus — 

cyanogenes,  causing  blue  milk 240 

tuberculosis,  causing  tuberculosis 405 

Back,  sprain,  causes  and  treatment 268 

Bacteria — 

causing  abscess 235 

definition 357 

Bacterium  bovis  septicuin,  causing  hemorrhagic  septicemia 395 

Balkan  countries,  foot-and-mouth  disease 384 

Ball- 
eye,  description 338 

hair,  in  stomach,  description 29 

Balls,  use  in  administering  medicines 8 

Bee  stings,  description  and  treatment 69 

Beef  measles,  discussion  and  management 534 

Belgium,  foot-and-mouth  disease 384 

Benign  tumors,  description 304 

Big  .jaw.     See  Actinomycosis. 
Black  quarter.     See  Blackleg. 
Blackleg- 
description,  cause  and  treatment 457,  462 

serum,  relation  to  anthrax 456 

vaccine,  note  on  distribution  by  Animal  Industry  Bureau 461 

Bladder — 

eversion,  description,  and  treatment 216 

or  rectum,  full,  as  obstruction  to  parturition 17(5 

palsy  of  neck,  cause  and  treatment 128 

paralysis,  causes  and  treatment 126 

rupture,  symptoms 216 

spasms,  description  and  treatment 12(i 

stone,  symptoms  and  treatment • 140 


INDEX.  545 

Bladderworms —  ^*^*' 

affecting  brain,  description  and  treatment 533 

thin-neclied,  description  and  treatment 533 

Bleeding — 

description  and  treatment 81 

lungs,  description  and  treatment 97 

navel,  cause  and  treatment 246 

nose,  cause  and  treatment 91 

womb,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 212 

Blisters,  water,  symptoms  and  treatment 326 

Bloating,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 22 

Blood- 
clots  on  walls  of  vagina,  description  and  treatment . 218 

coagulated,  under  vaginal  walls  after  calving,  treatment 177 

description  and  influence  of  food  on 73 

flukes  (Schistosoma  bovis),  note 535 

parasites  affecting,  different  kinds 535 

protozoa  affecting 510-536 

vessels — 

functions . —  72. 

heart,  lymphatics,  diseases,  chapter  by  W.  H.  Harbaugh 71-84 

Bloodsuckers  affecting  cattle,  description  and  treatment 524 

Bloody  milk,  cause  and  treatment 239 

Bloody  urine — 

caused  by  blood  flukes 535 

description,   symptoms,   and  treatment 117 

Blue  disease,  cause 251 

Blue  lice  {Haetnatopinus  eurysternus  and  H.  vitali),  description 517 

Blue  milk,   cause  and  treatment 240 

Boils,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 326 

Bones — 

broken,  description  of  kinds  and  treatment 269-280 

diseases  and  accidents,  chapter  by  V.  T.  Atkinson 262-286 

dislocations,  description  and  treatment 280 


face,  fracture,  description,  and  treatment. 


275 

luxations,   description   and  treatment 280 

manner  of  nourishment 262 

number  and  description 262 

shape,    classes 263 

Bony  tumor,  description  and  treatment 312 

Boophilus  anriulatiis,  Texas  fever  tick.     See  Margaropus  atmulatus. 

Bots  affecting  cattle,  description  and  treatment 515 

Bovine  tuberculosis  and  public  health 428 

Bowel  hernia,  description  and  treatment 38 

Bowels nA     An 

diseases  affecting,   causes,  symptoms,   and  treatment 34-43 

obstruction  resulting  from  invagination,  symptoms  and  treatment 35 

twisting    and    knotting,    symptoms,    post-mortem    appearance,    and 

treatment ^^ 

Brain —                                                                                               ,  ^               ^  ^^^ 

and  its  membranes,  inflammation,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment-  101 

bladderworms  affecting,  treatment 533 

coenurus  cerebralis  (MuUiceps  vmlticeps)  affecting,  treatment 583 

concussion,  cause,  symptoms,  and  treatment 105 

congestion,  description  and  treatment 104 

description 99 

tumors,    description l^O 

Brazil,  foot-and-mouth  disease ^^4 

navel,  symptoms  and  treatment 250 

uterus,  cause  and  treatment loO 

Breathing,  suspended  in  young  calves,  discussion ^4o 

Bronchial  tubes,  parasites  affecting 535 

33071°— 16 35 


546  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

Bronchitis —  Page. 

description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 92 

verminous — 

description,  symptoms,  treatment,  and  prevention 98 

parasite   {Strongylus  mici'urus) ,  cause 98 

Brush,  report  of  foot-and-mouth  disease  in  man 393 

Buftalo  gnats,  description  and  remedy 513 

Bull,  ringing,  method 289 

Bulls,  susceptibility  to  sarcoptic  mange 523 

Burns  and  scalds,  causes  and  treatment 331 

Calculi — 

classification 135 

forms  in  different  situations 13G 

in  prepuce  or  sheath,  treatment 142 

renal,  description  and  treatment 137 

urethral,  description  and  treatment 137 

urinary — 

classification 135 

description  and  causes 128 

effect  of  different  feeds 129 

Calculus — 

blocking  teats,  treatment 241 

prevention 139 

vesical  or  urethral,  symptoms  and  treatment 140 

Calf- 
attention  necessary  at  birth 245 

diphtheria,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 462-467 

dropsy — 

general,  cause  and  treatment 17S 

of  abdomen,  description  and  treatment 178 

monstrosities,  descriptions,  causes,  and  treatment 180-182 

muscles,  rigid  contraction,  cause  and  treatment 179 

slinking,    description 163 

swelling,  caused  by  gas,  treatment 179 

tumors  affecting,  description  and  treatment 179 

Calves — 

congenital  imperfections,  kinds 261 

indigestion  affecting,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 32 

newborn,  acute  scouring,  description,  prevention,  and  treatment 259 

pyemic  and  septicemic  inflammation,  symptoms  and  treatment 249 

young — 

aphtha,  or  thrush,  affecting,  description  and  treatment 231 

constipation  affecting,  cause  and  treatment 251 

diseases  affecting,  chapter  by  James  Law 245-261 

rickets  affecting,  description  and  treatment 261 

ulcers  in  mouth,  causes,  symptoms,  and  ti'eatmeut 462 

Calving — 

dropping  and  palsy  following,  description  and  treatment 231 

retarded  by  nervousness 177 

symptoms 171 

Canada,  source  of  foot-and-mouth  infection 384 

Cancer,  description  and  treatment 313 

Capsule,  eye,  description 340 

Capsules,  use  in  administering  medicines 8 

Carbolic-acid  poisoning,  description  and  treatment 60 

Carbon  dioxid,  formation  in  preparing  cattle  dip 496 

Carbuncle,  description 456 

Carcinoma,  description  and  treatment 313 

Caries,  teeth,  description 16 

Carpus,  fracture,  description  and  treatment 279 

Cartilage,  ear,  necrosis  affecting 355 

Caruncula  lacrimalis  of  eye,  description 342 

Casein  concretions  blocking  teats,  cause  and  treatment 241 

Casting  the  withers,  cause  and  treatment 213 


INDEX.  547 

Castration —  Page. 

dangers  and  care 298-299 

of  female,  description  of  operation 299 

of  male,  description  of  operation 297 

Cataract,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 346 

Catarrh — 

description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 90,  91 

gastro-intestinal,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 29,  32 

malignant,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 467-470 

nasal,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 90 

Catarrhal  fever,  infectious,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 467-470 

Cats,  ear  ticks  on,  note 523 

Cattle- 
animal  parasites  affecting,  chapter  by  B.  H.  Ransom 510-.536 

dip,  preparation  and  use 49(>-497 

dose  of  vaccine  against  anthrax 455 

drenching,  care  of  lungs 528 

farcy,  description  and  treatment 509 

infected  with  anthrax,  description 450 

infection  with  sarcoptic  mange 523 

infectious  diseases,  chapter  by  John  R.  Mohler 35(>-.509 

infestation  with  tapeworm 534 

injury  by  use  of  petroleum  against  ticks 494 

loss  of  blood  by  inoculations,  limits  of  safety 500 

northern,  immunization  against  Texas  fever,  manner 498 

parasitic  diseases,  prevention 510 

plague.     See  Rinderpest. 

protection  from  flies,  formulas  for  mixtures 510-511 

rabies  affecting,  description,  symptoms,  etc 400-404 

southern,  injury  by  ticks 482 

tick,  Margaropus  armulatus,  as  carrier  of  Texas  fever 478 

ticks — 

injurious  effects  of  and  losses  caused  by 479-484 

methods  of  ridding  cattle  of 484-498 

tumors  affecting,  chapter  by  John  R.  Mohler 301-318 

Cerebral  apoplexy,  description  and  treatment 104 

Cerebrospinal  division,  description-.^ ■ 99 

Chapped  teats,  cause  and  treatment 241 

Charbon.    See  Anthrax. 

Chest,  dropsy  affecting,  description  and  treatment 97 

Children,  infection  with  foot-and-mouth  disease 392 

China,  foot-and-mouth  disease 884 

Choking,  symptoms  and  treatment 20 

Ghorioptic  mange,  location  and  treatment 522 

Choroid  coat  of  the  eye,  description 340 

Chrondroma  tumor,  description  and  treatment 312 

Chronic   tympanities,    cause   and   treatment 25 

Coal-oil  poisoning,  description  and  treatment 59 

Coemirus  cerehralis  (Multiceps  multiccps)  affecting  brain,  treatment 5.33 

Coital  exanthema,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 399 

Cold  in  the  head,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 90 

Colic,   causes,  symptoms,   and  treatment 31 

Concussion  of  the  brain,  cause,  symptoms,  and  treatment 105 

Congenital  imperfections  in  calves,  kinds 261 

Congestion — 

and  inflammation  of  testicles,  description  and  treatment 150 

brain,  description  and  treatment 104 

liver,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 44 

spinal  cord,   description,  symptoms,   and  treatment 108 

udder,  description  and  treatment 231 

Conjunctivitis — 

causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 342 

infectious  catarrhal,  symptoms,  treatment  and  prevention 343 

Connecticut,  foot-and-mouth  dLsease 386 


548  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

Constipation —  Page. 

cause  and  treatment 36 

young  calves,  cause  and  treatment 251 

Contagious — 
abortion — 

causes 163-170 

prevention  and  treatment 168 

diseases,  disinfection  of  premises 361 

inflammation  of  the  udder,  description,  prevention,  and  treatment —  235 

mammitis,  description,  prevention,  and  treatment 235 

pleuropneumonia — 

cause,  incubation,  and  symptoms 367 

definition  and  history 364 

post-mortem  appearance 371 

prevention  and  treatment 375 

scouring,  acute,  in  newborn  calves,  description,  prevention,  and  treat- 
ment    259 

Contused  or  lacerated  wounds,  description  and  treatment 296 

Contusion  of  lips,  wounds,  and  snake  bites  of  mouth,  symptoms  and  treat- 
ment    14 

Copper  poisoning,  description  and  treatment 56 

Cornea — 

eye,  description 339 

ulcers,  cause,  symptoms,  and  treatment 345 

Corneal  dermatoma,  description  and  treatment 347 

Corneitis,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 343 

Cough,  examination 87 

Cow,  pregnant,  hygiene 158 

Cowpox,   description,   symptoms,    and   treatment 238,  436 

Cows,  milch,  protection  from  flies 511 

Cramps  of  hind  limbs  during  pregnancy,  cause 160 

Cranium,  fracture,  description  and  treatment 276 

Creeps,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 265 

Cresol — 

compound  solution,  composition  and  use 364 

use  in  foot-and-mouth  disease 391 

Croupous  enteritis,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 35 

Crude  petroleum — 

danger  to  cattle  in  use  against  ticks 494 

dip  for  destroying  cattle  ticks 498 

Cud,  loss,  description 27 

Cuts,   barbed-wire,  description  and  treatment 297 

Cyanosis,    cause 81>  251 

Cysts — 

dental,   description  and   treatment 316 

dermoid — 

and  sebaceous,  description  and  treatment 328 

description    and    treatment 316 

description 305 

extravasation,   description 315 

mucous,   description  and  treatment 317 

parasitic,    description 315 

proliferation,  description  and  treatment 317 

serous,  description   and  treatment 316 

Dairy  business,  injury  by  foot-and-mouth  disease 382 

Dandruff,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 327 

Deformities,  hoof,  causes  and  treatment 336 

Dehorning,   description 290 

Delaware,   foot-and-mouth   disease 386 

Demodectic  mange,  description  and  treatment 523 

Denmark,  foot-and-mouth  disease 384 

Dental  cysts,  description  and  treatment 316 

Dermis,   description 318 

Dermoid  cysts,  description  and  treatment 316,  328 

Diabetes — 

insipidus,  cause  and  treatment 116 

mellitus,    description 121 


INDEX.  549 

Diarrhea —  Page, 

arid  dysentery,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 34 

calf,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 32 

causes,  symptoms,  prevention,   and  treatment 252-259 

See  also  Gastro-intestinal  catarrh. 
Dickson,  Wllliam,  and  William  H.  Lowe,  chapter  on  "  Surgical  opera- 
tions " 2S7-300 

Digestive  organs,  diseases  affecting,  chapter  by  A.  J.  Murray 12-50 

Dilatation  and  hypertrophy  of  heart,  description 80 

Diphtheria,  calf,  description,  cause,  treatment,  etc 4G2-467 

Dipping — 

bath,  cattle,  temperature 521 

remedy  for  screwworms 514 

Dips — 

arsenical,  protection  of  hands  in  use 497 

cattle,  for  ticks 494-498 

mange  and  scab 520,  521 

Disinfection,  house,  methods 361 

Dislocation,   eyeball,   treatment 351 

Dislocations,   bones,   description   and   treatment 280 

Diuresis,  causes  and  treatment 116 

Dogs,  ear  tick 523 

Drainage,  usefulness  in  prevention  of  fluke  diseases 532 

Drenching  tube,  use  in  eradicating  worms 527 

Dropping,  following  calving,  description  and  treatment 231 

Dropsy — 

abdomen,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 47 

abdomen  of  calf,  description  and  treatment 178 

chest,  description  and  treatment 97 

general,  of  calf,  cause  and  treatment 178 

hind  limbs  and  between  thighs,  during  pregnancy,  cause 160 

membranes  of  fetus,  description  and  treatment 160 

navel,  description  and  treatment 251 

womb,  description  and  treatment 160 

Dysentery — 

and  diarrhea,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 34 

chronic  bacterial,  description,  treatment,  etc 506 

red,  note 531 

See  also  Gastro-intestinal  catarrh. 

Dyspepsia,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 29 

Ear  tick,  spinose,  presence  in  cattle,  horses,  dogs,  etc 523 

Ears — 

abscess  affecting,  treatment 353 

cartilage,  necrosis  affecting 3.55 

diseases  affecting,  chapter  by  M.  R.  Trumbower 35.3-3.55 

enchondroma,  description  and  treatment 3.55 

foreign  bodies  lodging  in,  symptoms  and  treatment 3.54 

frostbite,  symptoms  and  treatment 3.55 

fungoid  growths,  cause  and  treatment 3.54 

internal  inflammation,  symptoms  and  treatment 3.53 

lacerations,  cause  and  treatment 355 

scurfy,  cause  and  treatment 3.54 

ticks   affecting,   treatment .523 

Ecldnococcus  {/ranulosus,  hydatid,  description 533 

Ectropion  of  the  eyelid,  description  and  treatment 348 

Eczema — 

description,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 323 

epizootic,    reference 381 

Edema — 

causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 328 

malignant,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 470-472 

Elephantiasis,  description 328 

Emaciation,  symptom  of  foot-and-mouth  disease 381 

Emphysema,  description  and  treatment 90,  3.32 

Enchondroma,  ear,  description  and  treatment 355 

Encysted  stomach  worm,  description  and  treatment 528 

Endocarditis,  description  and  treatment 79 


550  DISEASES  OF   CATTLE. 

Page. 

Enemata,  uses  and  methods . 9 

Enteritis — 

causes,  symptoms,  post-mortem  appearance,  and  treatment 33 

croupous,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 33 

simple.     See  Gastro-enteritis. 

Entropion,  eyelid,  description  and  treatment 348 

Epidermis,    description 318 

Epilepsy,  description,  cause,  and  treatment 105 

Epistaxis,  cause  and  treatment 91 

Epizootic  aphtha,  reference 381 

Ergotism — 

and  mycotic  stomatitis,  differentiation 541 

description  and  treatment 67 

Eruption,  vesicular,  of  genital  organs,  description,  symptoms,  and  treat- 
ment   399 

Erythema,  description,  causes,  and  treatment 321 

Eversion — 

bladder,  description  and  treatment 210 

eyelid,  description  and  treatment 348 

womb,  cause  and  treatment 213 

Extra-uterine  gestation,  description  and  treatment 161 

Extravasation  cysts,  description 315 

Eye — 

and   its   appendages,    diseases    affecting,    chapter   by    M.   R.    Trum- 

bower 338-352 

aqueous  humor,  description 339 

capsule,  description 340 

caruncula,  lacrimalis  affecting 342 

choroid  coat,  description 340 

cornea — 

description 339 

ulcers  affecting,  cause,  symptoms,  and  treatment 345 

description 338 

foreign  bodies  penetrating,  treatment 349 

lens,  description 340 

muscles,  description 341 

parasites  affecting,   treament 347,  535 

puncta  lacrimalia,  description 342 

retina,   description 340 

roundworms  affecting,  treatment 535 

sclerotic  membrane,  description 339 

vitreous  humor,  description 340 

Eyeball — 

description 338 

dislocation,  cause  and  treatment 351 

hairy  tumor  affecting,  description  and  treatment 347 

Eyelashes,  inversion,  treatment 348 

Eyelids — 

description 341 

ectropion  affecting,  description  and  treatment- 348 

entropion,  description  and  treatment 348 

eversion,  description  and  treatment 348 

inversion,  description  and  treatment 348 

laceration,  cause  and  treatment 349 

tumors  affecting,  description  and  treatment 348 

Face  bones,  fracture,  description  and  treatment 275 

Farcy,  cattle,  description  and  treatment 509 

Fasciola  hepatica,   description 531 

Faseiola  mafina,  description 531 

Fatty  degeneration,   heart,  description 80 

Feed,  character,  analyses,  effect  on  milk 254-256 

Feeding — 

character,  effect  on  digestive  organs 12 

value  as  remedy  for  stomach  worms 526-527 


INDEX.  551 

Page. 

"  Feed-lot "  method  of  freeing  cattle  and  pastures  from  ticks 492-495 

Fetlock- 
fracture  below,  treatment 280 

sprain,   causes  and  treatment 267 

Fetus — • 

developing  outside  womb,  description  and  treatment 161 

membranes,  dropsy  affecting,  description  and  treatment 160 

prolonged  retention,  description  and  treatment 162 

Fever — 

milk,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 224-235 

parturition,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 224 

southern,  splenetic,  or  Texas.     See  Texas  fever. 
Fibroma — 

interdigital,  description  and  treatment 336 

tumor,  description  and  treatment 309 

Fibrous  periostitis,  description  and  treatment 264 

Filaria  cervina,  worm  found  in  the  eye 347 

Filaria  labiato-papiUosa,  parasitic  roundworm  of  cattle 535 

Filaria  oeuli,  description  and  treatment 347 

Fissure  of  the  wall  of  hoof,  description  and  treatment 336 

Fistula,  milk,  description  and  treatment 243 

Flies — 

injurious  to  cattle 510-513 

larval,  note 512 

Flooding  from  womb,  description  and  treatment 212 

Fluke  disease,  control  by  use  of  lime 532 

Flukes,  prevention  by  drainage 5.32 

Fly- 
Spanish,  poison,  description  and  treatment 70 

stable,  breeding  places 511 

Fly  preventives,  injury  to  cattle  by  poisoning 511 

Flytrap,  use  against  stable  flies ' 511 

Fluke,  disease  of  cattle 531 

Flukes,  liver  and  lungs,  description 531 

Foods,  character,  effect  on  digestive  organs 12 

Foot- 
diseases  affecting,  chapter  by  M.  R.  Trumbower 333-337 

foul,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 334 

soreness,   description  and  treatment 333 

Foot  rot,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 334 

Foot-and-mouth  disease — 

benign,  simple,  or  noninfectious 537 

danger  to  man 392-393 

description,  cause,  symptoms,  etc 381-393 

diagnosis 389-390 

eradication  by  slaughter,  efficacy 392 

incubation    period 382 

losses  other  than  by  death  of  animal 382 

mortality 382,  389 

occurrence  in  various  countries  of  world 383-384 

prevention    and    eradication 390-392 

similarity  to  mycotic  stomatitis . 540 

symptoms 381,387-389 

symptoms   in   man 692 

United  States,  outbreaks 384-387 

Forage,  insects  on,  description  of  poisonous  effect 70 

Formaldehyde  gas,  liberation  by  use  of  permanganate 363 

Foul  in  foot,  cau.ses,  symptoms,  and  treatment 334 

Founder,  description,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 333 

Fractures — 

below  hock  and  fetlock,  description  and  treatment 280 

compound,  comminuted,  and  complicated 269 

description  of  different  kinds,  and  treatment 269-280 

face  bones,  description  and  treatment 275 

general  symptoms  and  treatment 270,  271 

hip  point,  causes  and  treatment 278 


552  DISEASES  or  cattle. 

Fractures — Continued.  Page. 

horns,  description  and  treatment 275 

limbs,  description  and  appliances  for  treatment 279-280 

lower  jaw,  cause  and  treatment 276 

metacarpus  and  metatarsus,  description  and  treatment 280 

pelvis,    description    and    treatment 176,  277 

ribs,  cause  and  treatment 279 

special,  descriptions  and  treatment 275 

spinal  column,  description  and  treatment 277 

verterbra,  description  and  treatment 277 

France,  foot-and-mouth  disease 383 

Froesch,  note  on  destruction  of  foot-and-mouth  infection 393 

Frostbites — 

ears,  symptoms  and  treatment 355 

treatment 332 

Fungi,  poisonous,  description  of  poisonini; 68 

Fungoid  growth  of  the  ear,  cause  and  treatment 354 

Fungus  hematodes — 

cause  and  treatment 351 

description 314 

Furunculus,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment _ 326 

Ganglionic  division  of  the  nervous  system 101 

Gangrene,  danger  in  castration  of  cattle 298 

Gangrenous  septicemia,  symptoms  and  treatment 470 

Garget,  description  and  treatment 231 

Gas- 
cause  of  swelling  in  calf,  treatment 179 

under  the  skin,  symptoms  and  treatment 332 

Gastro-enteritis,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 33 

Gastro-intestinal  catarrh,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 29,32 

Generative  organs — 

diseases,  chapter  by  James  Law 145-212 

discussion 145 

Genital  organs,  vesicular  eruption  affecting,  description,  symptoms,  and 

treatment 399 

Germany,    foot-and-mouth    disease 383-384 

Gestation,  extra-uterine,  description  and  treatment 361 

Gid,  parasite  of  sheep  and  cattle 533 

Glands,  skin,  location  and  use 319 

Gnats,  buffalo,  description  and  remedy 513 

Goiter,  cause,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 308 

Gonorrhea,  description  and  treatment 154 

Gravel — 

description  and  cause J-8 

effect  of  different  feeds 130 

in  prepuce  or  sheath,  treatment 142 

Great  Britain,  foot-and-mouth  disease 384 

Grubs,   cattle,   description 515 

Gullet- 
diseases  affecting,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment l<-22 

wounds  and  injuries,  cause  and  treatment 22 

Gut  tie,  desci-iption,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 41 

Haematopinus  euryiitei-mis  and  H.  vituli,  description  and  treatment 517 

Haemonchus  contortus,  description  and  treatment 525 

Hair  balls,  cause '^^ 

Hair,    description ^^° 

Harbaugh,  W.  H. —  ,.,   o. 

chapter  on  "Diseases  of  the  lieart,  blood  vessels,  and  lymphatics    _  .1-84 

chapter  on  "  Diseases  of  the  nervous  system  " 99-110 

Haw,  inflammation  and  enlargement,  description  and  treatment 352 

Health,  public,  relation  of  actinomycosis 445 

blood  vessels  and  lymphatics,  chapter  by  W.  H.  Harbaugh 71-84 

description ^1 

dilation  and  hypertrophy,  description 80 


INDEX.  553 

Heart — Continued.  Page- 
examination  of 75 

fatty   degeneration,   description 80 

injury  by  foreign  bodies,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 76 

misplacement,    description 81 

palpitation,  description 76 

rupture,    description 80 

valves,  diseases  affecting,  symptoms  and  treatment 80 

Heat  prostration,  symptoms  and  treatment 106 

Heaves,   description  and  treatment 96 

Heel,  ulcerations,  causes  and  treatment 835 

Hemaglobinuria  or  hematuria,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 117 

Heniatodes,  fungus,  description 314 

Hemoptysis,  description  and  treatment 97 

Hemorrhage — 

danger  in  castration  of  cattle 298 

treatment 81 

Hemorrhagic  septicemia,  causes,  symptoms,  etc 395-899 

Hepatitis,  symptoms  and  treatment 45 

Hernia — 

bowel,  description  and  treatment 38 

danger  in  castration  of  cattle 298 

peritoneal,  description,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 41 

rennet,  description  and  treatment 38 

rumen,  description  and  cause 37 

stomach,  description  and  treatment - —  38 

umbilical,  description,  causes,  and  treatment 39,  250 

uterus,  cause  and  treatment 160 

ventral,  description  and  causes 37 

Hides,  injury  by  cattle  ticks 482 

Hip  point,  fracture,  causes  and  treatment 278 

Hip  sprain,  cause  and  treatment 268 

Hock- 
fracture  below,  description  and  treatment 280 

fracture,  treatment 279 

Hollow  horn,  imaginary  disease 27 

Hoof- 
deformities,  causes  and  treatment 336 

loss,  causes  and  treatment 334 

split,  description  and  treatment 336 

wall,  fissure  affecting,  description  and  treatment 336 

wounds  and  pricks,  treatment 336 

Horns,  fracture,  description  and  treatment 275 

Horses — 

dose  of  vaccine  against  anthrax 455 

ear  tick,  note 523 

Hoven,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 22 

Hydatids — 

and  flukes  affecting  the  lungs  of  animals 531 

description  and  treatment 531 

Hydrocephalus,  description  and  treatment 177 

Hydrophobia.     See  Rabies. 

Hydrothorax,  description  and  treatment 97 

Hygiene,  pregnant  cow 158 

Hygromata,  description  and  treatment 315 

Hyperplasia,  reference 301 

Hypertrophy — 

description 126 

heart,  with  dilation,  description 80 

Hypoderma  bovis,  new  warble  fly 516 

Hypodcrnia  Imeata,  warble  fly,  description 515 

Illinois,  foot-and-mouth  disease 386 

Immunization,  northern  cattle  against  Texas  fever,  manner 498 

Impetigo,  description,  causes,  and  treatment 325 

Incised  wounds,  description  and  treatment 293 

Incontinence,  urine,  cause  and  treatment 128 


554  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

Page. 

Incubation  period  of  infectious  diseases 360 

Indiana,  foot-and-moutli  disease 386 

Indigestion — 

calves,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 32,  251 

causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 26,  29,  31 

Induration — 

tongue.     See  Actinomycosis. 

womb  moutli,  description  and  treatment 174 

Infectious  aplitha.     See  Foot-and-mouth  disease. 

Infectious  catarrhal  conjunctivitis,  symptoms,  treatment,  and  prevention.  343 

Infectious  catarrhal  fever,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 467-470 

Infectious  diseases — 

cattle,  chapter  by  John  R.  Mohler 356-509 

classification  of  symptoms  and  lesions 357 

general  discussion 356 

incubation  periods 360 

treatment,  discussion 360 

Infectious  ophthalmia,  or  infectious  catarrhal  conjunctivitis 343 

Inflammation — 

brain  and  its  membranes,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 101 

contagious,  of  the  udder,  description,  prevention,  and  treatment 235 

ear,  symptoms  and  treatment 353 

haw,  description  and  treatment 352 

kidneys,  description,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 121 

liver,  symptoms  and  treatment 45 

mucous  membrane  of  mouth,  symptoms  and  ti-eatment 17 

navel  veins,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 247 

parotid  gland,  symptoms  and  treatment 18 

pyemic  and  septicemic,  of  joints  of  calves,  symptoms  and  treatment 249 

sheath  and  penis  from  bruising,  prevention  and  treatment 153 

sheath,  causes  and  treatment 151 

spleen,  description 45 

testicles,  description  and  treatment 150 

traumatic,  of  the  stomach,  cause,  symptoms,  and  treatment 34 

udder,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 232 

urachus,  causes  and  treatment 246 

urethra,  description  and  treatment 154 

vagina,  causes  and  treatment 221 

veins,  description  and  treatment 84 

womb,   causes,   symptoms,   and   treatment 222 

Inflammatory  diseases,  skin,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 318-332 

Inhalation  of  medicines,  manner 10 

Inoculation,  use  against  hemorrhagic  septicemia 399 

Intercostal  muscles,  rheumatism  affecting,  description  and  treatment —  98 

Interdigital  fibroma,  description  and  treatment 336 

Intestinal  parasites,   description   and   treatment 529 

Intestines,   roundworms  affecting,    kind   and   treatment 530 

Intussusception,  causes,  symptoms,  post-mortem  appearance,  and  treat- 
ment    35 

Invagination,  cause  of  obstruction  of  bowels,  symptoms,  and  treatment —  35 
Inversion — • 

eyelashes,   treatment 348 

eyelid,    description    and    treatment 348 

lodin,  tincture,  use  in  punctured  wounds 295 

Iowa,  foot-and-mouth  disease 386 

Iris,    description 339 

Italy,  foot-and-mouth  disease 383 

Itch,  scab,  mites,  and  mange,  description  and  treatment 518 

Itching,   cause   and   treatment 320 

Japan,  foot-and-mouth  disease 384 

Jaundice,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 44 

Jaw — 

big,  lump,  or  lumpy.     See  Actinomycosis. 

lower,  fracture,  cause  and  treatment 276 

poverty,  caused  by  twisted  wireworms 525 


INDEX.  555 

Page. 

Jawbones,  actinomycosis  affecting,  description  and  treatment 438-447 

Jensen,  formula  for  protection  of  cattle  from  flies 511 

Joint-ill,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 249 

Kansas,    foot-and-mouth   disease 386 

Kelis,    causes,    symptoms,    and    treatment 329 

Kentucky,   foot-and-mouth   disease 386 

Keratitis,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 343 

Kidney — 

ox,    description 115 

parasites   affecting,   discussion 125 

stone  in,   description   and  treatment 137 

Kidneys — 

inflammation,  description,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 121 

tumors   affecting,   description 126 

Knee — 

fracture  below,  description  and  treatment 280 

fracture,  description  and  treatment 279 

tumors,   description    and   treatment 315 

Knotting  and  twisting  of  bowels,  causes,  symptoms  and  treatment 35 

Labor  pains  before  relaxation  of  passages 178 

Lacerated  wounds,  description  and  treatment 296 

Laceration,  eyelid,  cause  and  treatment 349 

Lacerations — 

and  ruptures- of  the  vagina,  description  and  treatment 217 

ear,  cause  and  treatment 355 

Lacrimal  gland  of  the  eye,  description 341 

Lameness,  symptom  of  foot-and-mouth  disease 381 

Laminitis,  description,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 333 

Laryngitis,  cause  and  treatment 91 

Laurel  poisoning,  description  and  treatment 65 

Law,   James — 

chapter  on  "  Diseases  following  parturition  " 212-244 

chapter  on  *'  Diseases  of  the  generative  organs  " 145-212 

chapter  on  "  Diseases  of  the  urinary  organs  " 111-144 

chapter  on  "  Diseases  of  young  calves  " 245-261 

observation  of  foot-and-mouth  disease  in  man 393 

Lead  poisoning,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 55 

Leeches  in  cattle,  description  and  treatment 524 

Lens  of  the  eye,  description 340 

Leucorrhea,    symptoms    and    treatment 222 

Lice — 

blue    (Haematopiniis   eurysternus   and   H.   vituli),   description   and 

treatment 517 

red,  description  and  treatment 518 

Lightning  stroke,  symptoms  and  treatment 109 

Limbs,  fracture  of  bones,  description . 279 

Lime,  use  in  fluke  control 532 

Lipoma  tumor,  description  and  treatment 312 

Lips,  contusions,  wounds,  and  snake  bites,  symptoms  and  treatment 14 

Live  stock,  immunization  against  anthrax 455-456 

Liver — 

congestion,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 44 

diseases  affecting,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 44-45 

flukes,    description   and   treatment 531 

inflammation  affecting,  symptoms  and  treatment 45 

Lockjaw — 

danger  in  castration  of  cattle 298 

reference 298 

Loco  weed  poisoning,  description  and  treatment 67 

Loeffler,  note  on  description  of  foot-and-mouth  infection 393 

Louse,  red  (Trichodectes  scalaris),  description  and  treatment 518 

Lowe,  William  H. — 

and  William  Dickson,  chapter  on  "  Surgical  operations  " 287-300 

chapter  on  "  Noncontagious  diseases  of  organs  of  respiration  " 85-98 

Lump,  or  lumpy  jaw.     See  Actinomycosis. 


556  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

Lung —  Page. 

abscess,    description 97 

tissue,  parasites  affecting 531 

Lungs — 

actinomycosis   affecting 441 

bleeding  from,  description  and  treatment 97 

bronchial  tubes,  parasites  affecting,  description  and  treatment nSo 

parasites  affecting,  note 531 

worms  of  cattle,  description  and  treatment 535 

Luxations  of  bones,  description  and  treatment 280 

Lymphatics — 

description 73 

heart,  and  blood  vessels,  diseases,  chapter  by  W.  H.  Harbaugh 71-84 

Malignant — 

catarrh,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 467^70 

edema,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 470-472 

pustule,  description 456 

tumors,    description 304 

Mammitis — 

contagious,  description,  prevention,  and  treatment 235 

simple,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 232 

Man — 

relation  to  beef  measles  in  cattle 534 

symptoms   of   foot-and-mouth   disease 392 

treatment  with  anthrax  serum 457 

Mange — 

common,  description  and  treatment 518 

itch,  scab,  mites,  description  and  treatment 518 

psoroptic,  description  and  treatment 519 

sarcoptic,  cause  and  treatment 523 

Manure,  breeding  place  for  flies 511 

Margaropiis  annulatus,  Texas  fever  tick 478 

Maryland,  foot-and-mouth  disease 386 

Massachusetts,  foot-and-mouth  disease 385,  386 

Measles,  beef,  discussion  and  management 534 

Measly  beef,  description  and  prevention 534 

Medicines,  methods  of  administration,  chapter  by  Leonard  Pearson 7-11 

Membrana  nictitans  of  eye,  description 341 

Meninges,  number  and  functions 101 

Mercury  poisoning,  symptoms  and  treatment . 57 

Metacarpus,  fracture,  description  and  treatment 280 

Metatarsus,   fracture,   description,   treatment 280 

Metritis,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 222 

Metroperitonitis,  causes,  symptoms,   and  treatment 222 

Michigan,   foot-and-mouth  disease 386 

Micrococcus  prodigiosus,  cause  of  bloody  milk 240 

Microorganisms,   transmission 359 

Milk- 
absence,  cause  and  treatment 239 

bloody  and  blue,  cause  and  treatment 239,  240 

diminution,  symptom  of  foot-and-mouth  disease 381 

duct — 

closure  and  thickening  of  mucous  membrane,  cause  and  treat- 
ment    242 

closure  by  membrane,  description  and  treatment 243 

effect  of  different  feeds,  analyses 254-256 

~^^  fever,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 224-235 

fistula,  description  and  treatment 243 

pasteurization  as  guard  against  foot-and-mouth  infection 393 

source  of  foot-and-mouth  disease  infection 392 

stringy,  cause  and  treatment 240 

Mineral — 

acid  poisoning,  description  and  treatment 58 

poisons,  description  and  kinds 54 

Minnesota,    foot-and-mouth    disease 386 

Misplacement,  heart,  description 81 


INDEX.  557 

Mites —  Page. 

description 519 

mange,  itch,  scab,  description  and  treatment 518 

MoHLER,  John  R. — 

chapter  on  "  Infectious  diseases  of  cattle  " 356-509 

chapter  on  "  Mycotic  stomatitis  of  cattle  " 537-542 

chapter  on  "  Tumors  affecting  cattle  " 301-318 

Monstrosities,  calf,  descriptions,  causes,  and  treatment 180-182 

Montana,  foot-and-mouth  disease 386 

Moor-ill,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 117 

Morphia,  poisoning,  description  and  treatment 61 

Mouth — 

diseases  affecting,  symptoms  and  treatment 14-17 

inflammation  of  the  mucous  membrane,  cause,  symptoms,  and  treat- 
ment          17 

sore,  characteristic  differences  from  foot-and-mouth  disease 389-390 

ulcers  affecting,  in  young  calves.     See  Necrotic  stomatitis. 

Mucopurulent  discharge  from  passages,  symptoms  and  treatment 222 

Mucous  cysts,  description  and  treatment 317 

Mucous  membrane — 

of  mouth,  inflammation,  cause,  symptoms,  and  treatment 17 

thickening  and  closure  of  milk  duct,  cause  and  treatment .-      242 

Multiceps  multiceps  (bladderworm),  parasite  of  brain 533 

MxjKRAT,  A.  J.,  chapter  on  "  Diseases  of  digestive  organs  " 12-50 

Muscles — 

calf,  rigid  contraction,  cause,  and  treatment 179 

eye,  description 341 

intercostal,  rheumatism  affecting,  description  and  treatment 98 

Mycotic  stomatitis — 

cattle,  chapter  by  John  R.  Mohler 537-.542 

character,  cause,  symptoms,  lesions,  etc 538 

characteristic  differences  from  foot-and-mouth  disease 389-390 

differential  diagnosis  and  treatment 540 

prevalence 537 

synonyms 537 

Myocarditis,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 79 

Myoma  tumor,  description  and  treatment 307 

Myxoma  tumor,  description  and  treatment 312 

Nagana,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 508 

Nasal  catarrh,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 90 

Navels 

abscess  affecting,  causes  and  treatment 97 

bleeding,  cause,  and  treatment ' 246 

breach,  symptoms,  and  treatment 250 

dropsy,  description  and  treatment 251 

string,  constricting  member  of  fetus,  description 177 

urine  discharged  through,  description  and  treatment 246 

urine  duct,  inflammation,  cause,  and  treatment 246 

veins,  inflammation,  description,  causes,  and  treatment 247 

Necrosis — 

and  diseases  of  cartilage  of  the  ear,  cause  and  treatment 355 

bony  orbit,  cause  and  treatment 350 

Necrotic  stomatitis — 

characteristic  difl'ei-ences  from  foot-and-mouth  disease 389 

description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 462—467 

differentiation  from  foot-and-mouth  disease 389 

Neoformation  and  neoplasm.     See  Tumors. 

Nephritis,  description,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 121 

Nerves,    description 99-101 

Nervous  system,  diseases,  chapter  by  W.  H.  Harbaugh 99-110 

Nervousness,  cause  of  i-etarding  calving 177 

Netherlands,  foot-and-mouth  disease 384 

Nettle  rash,  description,  causes,  and  treatment 322 

Neurofibroma  tumor,  description  and  treatment 308 

New  Hampshire,  foot-and-mouth  disease 385,386 

New  Jersey,  foot-and-mouth  disease 386 


558  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

Page. 

New  York,   foot-and-mouth  disease 386 

Nicotiu  dip,  directions  for  maliing 521 

Nodular  disease  of  intestines  due  to  hook  worms,  note 530 

Noncontagious — 
abortion — 

causes 1G3 

treatment 165 

diseases  of  organs  of  respiration,  chapter  by  William  H.  Lowe 85-98 

foot-and-mouth  disease,  reference 537 

Norway,  foot-and-mouth  disease 384 

Nose  bleeding,  cause  and  treatment 91 

Nymphomania  in  female,  cause  and  treatment 146 

Obstruction — 

arteries,  description  and  treatment 83 

bowels,  resulting  from  invagination,  causes,  symptoms,  etc 35 

parturition  by  full  bladder  or  rectum 176 

parturition  by  masses  of  fat,  cause 176 

Oesophagostoma  radiatum,  parasite  causing  nodular  disease,  treatment 530 

Ohio,  foot-and-mouth  disease 386 

Oidirum  albicans,  parasite  causing  aphtha,  or  thrush 261 

Operations — 

asepsis,  importance  of 287 

surgical — 

chapter  by  William  Dickson,  William  H.  Lowe 287-300 

manner  of  securing  the  animals 287 

uses  of  anesthesia 287 

Jphthalmia — 

simple,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 342 

specific,  symptoms,  treatment,  and  prevention 343 

Opium  poisoning,  description  and  treatment 61 

Orbit- 
bony,  necrosis  affecting,  cause  and  treatment 350 

fracture,  cause  and  treatment 350 

tumors,  cause  and  treatment 351 

Orbital— 

and  periorbital  abscess,  symptoms  and  treatment 350 

cavity  of  the  eye,  description 340 

Orchitis,  description  and  treatment 150 

Ornitliodoros  megnmi,  ear  tick  of  cattle 523 

Osteitis,  description  and  treatment 263 

Osteoma,  description  and  treatment 312 

Osteomalachi,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 265 

Osteomyelitis,  description  and  treatment 264 

Ostertagia  ostertagi,  encysted  stomach  worm  of  cattle 528 

Otitis,  symptoms  and  treatment 353 

Otobiiis  magnini,  ear  tick 523 

Ovariotomy,  description  of  the  operation 299 

Ovum,  inclosed,  description  and  treatment 179 

Ox  warbles  and  grubs,  treatment 516 

Pains,  labor,  before  relaxation  of  passages 173 

Palpitation  of  heart,  description 76 

Palsy — 

following  calving,  description  and  treatment 231 

of  neck  of  bladder,  cause  and  treatment 128 

Papillary  growths  and  warts  on  the  penis,  treatment 154 

Papilloma,  description  and  treatment 310 

Paralysis — 

bladder,  causes  and  treatment 128 

description 107 

hind  parts  during  pregnancy,  cause  and  treatment 161 

rear  parts  of  body,  cause 107 

raramphistonum  cervi,  parasite  affecting  cattle 524 

Paraplegia,  symptoms  and  treatment 108 


INDEX.  559 

Parasites —  I'age. 

animal,  of  cattle,  chapter  by  B.  H.  Ransom 510-536 

blood,  kinds 535 

bronchial  tubes,  description  and  treatment 535 

ear,  kinds  and  treatment 523 

eye,  kinds  and  treatment 536 

intestinal  tract,  kinds  and  treatment 529 

kidney,  discussion 125 

luug,  kinds 535 

stomach,  kinds  and  treatment 524 

Parasitic — 

cysts,  description 315 

diseases  of  the  skin,  description  and  treatment 330 

Parotid  gland,  inflammation,  cause,  symptoms,  and  treatment 18 

Parotitis,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 18 

Parturient — 

apoplexy,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 224 

collapse,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 224 

fever,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 224 

Parturition — 

difficult,  suggestions  for  assisting 172 

diseases  following,  chapter  by  James  Law 212-244 

obstacles,  causes 172 

Pasteurization,  value  in  check  of  foot-and-mouth  infection 393 

Pastures,  how  to  free  from  ticks 488 

Paunch,  distention  with  food,  description  and  treatment 26 

Pearson,  Leonard,  chapter  on  "  Administration  of  medicines  " 7-11 

Pelvis — 

fracture,  description  and  treatment 277 

narrow,  fracture,  cause  of  difficult  parturition 176 

Pemphigus,  symptoms  and  treatment 326 

Penis — 

inflammation  from  bruising,  prevention  and  treatment 153 

ulcers  affecting,  cause  and  treatment 155 

warts  and  papillary  growths,   treatment 154 

wounds,   cause  and  treatment 154 

Pennsylvania,  foot-and-mouth  disease 386 

Percussion  method  of  examination 90 

Pericarditis,  symptoms  and  treatment 77 

Periorbital  and  orbital  abscess,  symptoms  and  treatment 350 

Periostitis,  aseptic,  purulent,  and  fibrous,  description  and  treatment 263 

Peritoneal  hernia,  description,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 41 

Peritoneum,  diseases  affecting,  causes,  symptoms,   and  treatment 45-47 

Peritonitis — 

causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 45,  46 

danger  in   castration  of  cattle 298 

Permanganate,  use  in  production  of  formaldehyde  gas 363 

Persistent    urachus,    description    and    treatment 246 

Pharyngeal  polypi,  description  and  treatment 19 

Pharyngitis,  symptoms,  causes,  and  treatment 17 

Pharynx — 

diseases,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 19-22 

tumors  affecting,  description  and  treatment 19 

Philippine   Islands,    foot-and-mouth   disease 384 

Phlebitis- 
description    and    treatment 84 

umbilical,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 247 

Phosphorus  poisoning,  symptoms  and  treatment 57 

Pica,    description,    causes,    and   treatment 28 

Pink  eye.     See  Ophthalmia. 

riroplasma  higeminum,  protozoan  causing  Texas  fever 535 

Pityriasis,  causes,   symptoms,  and   treatment 327 

Plants,    poisonous,    description    of    poisoning 63-69 

Pleurisy,  description,  symptoms,   and  treatment 93 

Pleurodynia,  description  and  treatment 98 


560  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

Pleuropneumonia —  Page 

cause,    incubation,    and    symptoms 367 

definition  and  history 3G4 

post-mortem    appearance 371 

prevention  and  treatment 375 

Pneumonia,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 94 

Pneumotliorax,   description   and   treatment 97 

Poison,    definition 51 

Poisoning — 

acid,   description  and  treatment _ 58 

aconite,  description  and  treatment 63 

alkali,  description  and  treatment 59 

animal  products,  description  and  treatment 69 

arsenic,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 54 

carbolic  acid,  description  and  treatment 60 

chapter   by   V.   T.   Atkinson 51--70 

coal  oil,  description  and  treatment 59 

copper,    description    and    treatment 56 

fungi,    description 68 

laurel,    description    and    treatment 65 

lead,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 55 

loco  weed,  description  and  treatment 67 

mercury,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 57 

phosphorus,  symptoms  and  treatment 57 

plant,  description 63 

salt  and  saltpeter,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 60-61 

sources    51 

strychnin,   description  and   treatment 62 

symptoms  and  treatment 53 

Poisonous — 

fungi,    description 68 

plants,  description 63-69 

Poisons — 

chapter  by  V.  T.  Atkinson 51-70 

description  of  action 52 

mineral,    descriptions 54-58 

vegetable,  uses  as  medicine 61-69 

Polydesmns  excitans,  effect  on  cattle 13 

Polypi — 

description  and  treatment 311 

pharyngeal,  description  and  treatment 19 

vagina  or  uterus,  description  and  treatment 155 

Polytrincinm  trifoldii,  effect  on  cattle 13 

Polyuria,  causes  and  treatment 116 

Pork  measles,  note 534 

Potash,  permanganate,  use  in  production  of  formaldehyde  gas 363 

Poverty  jaw  and  scours,  caused  by  twisted  wireworm,  treatment 525 

Pregnancy — 

crtimps  of  hind  limbs  during,  cause 160 

duration 158 

signs 155 

Pregnant  cow,  hygiene 158 

Prepuce,  calculi  affecting,  treatment 142 

Presentation  of  fetus,  natural : 171 

Pricks,  hoof,  treatment 336 

Probang,  use  in  prevention  of  choking 21 

Prolapsus  vaginje,  description  and  treatment 160 

Proliferation  cysts,  description  and  treatment 317 

I'rostratlon,  heat,  symptoms  and  treatment 106 

Protozoa — 

as  intestinal  parasites,  note 531 

definition 357 

Protrusion,    vagina,    description    and    treatment 160 

Pruritis,  causes  and   treatment 320 

pRondoplasm.     /See  Tumors. 

Psoroptic  mange,  description  and  treatment 519 


INDEX.  561 

Page. 
Pucinma  arundinacea,  P.  coronata,  P.  graminis,  P.  straminis,  effect  on 

cattle 13 

Pulmouary  congestion,  treatment 96 

Pulse — 

description 74 

examination 8S 

Puncta  lacrimalia  of  the  eye,  description 342 

Purulent  periostitis,   description   and   treatment 264 

Pustule — 

description,  causes,  and  treatment 325 

malignant,    in    man,    description 456 

Pterygium,  description  and  treatment 347 

Pyemia,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 893 

Pyemic    inliammation   of   joints    in    calves,    description,    symptoms,    and 

treatment 249 

Quarter-ill.    See  Blackleg. 

Rabies,  cattlo,  description,  symptoms,  etc 400-404 

Rachitis.     See  Rickets. 

Ransom,  B.  H.,  chapter  on  "  Animal  parasites  of  cattle  " 510-536 

Rauschbrand.     See  Blackleg. 

Rectal  injections,  uses  and  methods 9 

Rectum — 

full,    obstruction    to    parturition 176 

method  of  administering  medicines 9 

Red  dysentery,    note 531 

Red  water,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 117 

Regulations,   sanitary,   for  controlling  Texas  fever 503 

Renal  calculi,  description  and  treatment 137 

Rennet,  hernia  affecting,  description  and  treatment 38 

Respiration — 

examination 87 

organs,  methods  of  diagnosis 85 

organs,    noncontagious   diseases    affecting,    chapter    by    William    H. 

Lowe _ 85-918 

Retina,  eye,  description 34Q 

Rheumatism — 

articular  and  muscular,  symptoms,  prevention,  and  treatment 285,  286 

intercostal  muscles,  description  and  treatment 99 

Rhode  Island,  foot-and-mouth  disease 385,  386 

Ribs,  fracture,  cause  and  treatment 279 

Rickets — 

description  and  treatment 265 

in  young  calves,  description  and  treatment 261 

Rinderpest,  description,  cause,  symptoms,  etc 377-381 

Ringing,  bull,  method 289 

Ringworm,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 330 

Roundworms — 

description 530 

eye,  treatment • 536 

intestine,  kinds  and  treatment 530 

stomach,    description 525 

Rumen — 

distention  with  food,  description  and  treatment 22 

hernia,  description  and  cause 37 

Rumenotomy,  description 292 

Rupture — 

bladder,  symptoms 216 

danger  in  castration  of  cattle 298 

heart,  description 80 

womb,  cause  and  treatment 217 

Ruptures — 

and  lacerations  of  the  vagina,  description  and  treatment 217-218 

description  and  cause 37 

33071°— 16 36 


562  DISEASES   OF    CATTLE. 

Page. 

Russia,  foot-and-mouth  disease 383 

SaccMromyces  albicans,  parasite  of  aphtha,  or  thrusli 2G1 

Salivation — 

cause,  symptoms,  and  treatment 15 

symptoms  of  foot-and-mouth  disease 381 

Salt,  common,  poisoning,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 61 

Saltpeter  poisoning,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 60 

Salts,  medicated,  doubtful  value  against  worms 528 

Sarcoma  tumor,  description  and  treatment 313 

Satyriasis  in  male,  cause  and  treatment 146 

Scab,  mange,  itch,  description  of  kinds  and  treatment 518 

Scabby  teats,  treatment 241 

Scalds,  causes  and  treatment 331 

Schistosoma  bovis,  cause  of  bloody  urine 53."> 

Scleroderma,  description 328 

Sclerotic  membrane  of  eye,  description 339 

Scouring — 

acute   contagious,   in  newborn   calves,   description,   prevention,    and 

ti-eatment 259 

causes,  symptoms,  prevention,  and  treatment 252-261 

Scours —  ^^_ 

and  poverty  jaw,  caused  by  twisted  wireworm,  treatment 52o 

causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 32 

Screens,  use  against  flies,  remarks 511 

Screwworms — 

affecting  animals,  description  and  remedy 514 

control  by  dipping 514 

Scurf,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 327 

Scurfy  ears,  cause  and  treatment 354 

Sebaceous  cysts,  description  and  treatment 328 

Sebaceous  glands,  location 319 

Seborrhea,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 327 

Septicemia — 

causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment—. 393 

gangrenous,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment _  470 

hemorrhagic,  causes,  symptoms,  etc 395-399 

hemorrhagic,  control  by  vaccination,  etc 399 

Septicemic  inflammation  of  joints  in  calves,  description,  symptoms,  and 

treatment 249 

Serous  cysts,  description  and  treatment 316 

Serum,  use  against  anthrax 453 

Setaria  labiate  papillosa,  embroyo  in  blood,  note 535 

Setoning,  description  and  use 291 

Sheath- 
calculi  affecting,  treatment 142 

inflammation,  causes  and  treatment lol 

penis,  inflammation  from  bruising,  prevention  and  treatment 153 

Sheep,  dose  of  vaccine  against  anthrax 453 

Shoulder  joint,  sprain,  causes  and  treatment 267 

Skeleton,  number  of  bones 262 

Skin—  * 

description ^i« 

diseases,  chapter  by  M.  R.  Trumbower 318-332 

gas  or  air  under,  symptoms  and  treatment 332 

glands,  location  and  use 319 

inflammatory  diseases,  causes  and  treatment 321 

parasites  affecting,  description  and  treatment 515-522 

secretions  and  growths,  description,  causes,  and  treatment 327-830 

wounds,  kinds,  description,  and  treatment 331-332 

Skull,  fracture,  description  and  treatment 276 

Slinking,  calf,  description 163 

Snake  bites,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 14,69 

Sore  mouth — 

characteristic  differences  from  foot-and-mouth  disease 389-390 

reference 537 


INDEX.  563 

Page. 

Sore  throat,  cause  and  treatment 17,91 

Sore  tongue,  reference 537 

Soreness,  foot,  description  and  treatment 333 

Southern  cattle  fever.     See  Texas  fever. 

Spanisli-fly  poisoning,  description  and  treatment 70 

Spasm  of  the  neck  of  the  bladder,  description  and  treatment 126 

Spavin,  description  and  treatment ^ 282 

Spaying,  description  of  operation 299 

Spinal  column,  fracture,  description  and  treatment 277 

Spinal  cord — 

congestion,  description,  symptom,  and  treatment 108 

description 100 

injuries,  description 107 

Spleen — 

diseases,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 44-45 

inflammation,  description 45 

Splenetic  fever.     See  Texas  fever. 

Splenitis,  description 45 

Split  hoof,  description  and  treatment 336 

Sporadic — 

aphthae,  reference 537 

stomatitis  aphthosa,  reference 537 

Sprain — 

fetlock,  causes  and  treatment 267 

hip,  cause  and  treatment 268 

shoulder  joint,  causes  and  treatment 267 

Sprains,  description  and  treatment 266 

Squinting,  description 347 

Stable  flies  (Stomoxys  calcitrcms) ,  affecting  cattle 511 

Stabling,  value  against  stomach  worms 526-527 

Staggers,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 101,  534 

Staphylococcus  pyogenes  aureus  and  S.  pyogenes  citreus,  bacteria  of  ab- 
scess   235 

Staphyloma,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 346 

Sterility,  causes 149 

Stings — 

venomous.    See  Snake  bites. 

wasps  and  bees,  description  and  treatment 69 

Stomach — 

diseases  affecting,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 22-34 

fourth,  affected  with  hernia,  description  and  treatment 38 

hair  balls  in 29 

parasites  affecting,  treatment 524-529 

roundworms  affecting 525 

traumatic  inflammation,  cause,  symptoms,  and  treatment 34 

worm — 

encysted,  description  and  treatment 528 

sanitary  measures  for  suppression 526-527 

worms,  different  kinds  affecting  cattle 525 

Stomatitis — 

cause,  symptoms,  and  treatment 17 

characteristic  differences  from  foot-and-mouth  dis,ease 389-390 

mycotic.     See  Mycotic  stomatitis. 

necrotic,  description,  symptoms,  treatment,  etc 462-467 

Stomoxys  calcitrans  affecting  cattle 511 

Stone- 
bladder,  obstruction  to  parturition 176 

bladder,  symptoms  and  treatment 140 

description  and  causes 128 

effect  of  different  feeds 130-132 

kidney,  description  and  treatment 137 

Strabismus,  description 347 

Straw,  breeding  place  of  stable  fly 511 

Streptococcus  pyogenes,  bacteria  of  abscess 235 

String,  navel,  constricting  member  of  fetus,  description 177 


664  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

Page. 

Stringj'^  milk,  cause  and  treatment 240 

Strongylus  micrurus,  parasite  of  verminous  bronchitis 98 

Struma,  cause,  description,  symptoms,  and  ti-eatment 308 

Stryclinin  poisoning,  description  and  treatment 62 

Sudorific  glands,  location  and  use .319 

Sugar  in  urine,  description 121 

Sunstroke,  symptoms  and  treatment 106 

Suppression,  milk,  cause  and  treatment 239 

Surfeit,  description,  causes,  and  treatment 322 

Surgery,  discussion 287 

Surgical  operations — 

asepsis,    importance 287 

chapter  by  William  Dickson  and  William  H.  Lowe 287-300 

manner  of  securing  the  animals  during 288 

uses  of  anethesia 287 

Swamp  lands,  drainage  as  measure  against  fluke  disease 5.32 

Sweat  glands,  location  and  use 320 

Sweden,    foot-and-mouth   disease .384 

Swelling  of  calf  with  gas,  cause  and  treatment 179 

Switzerland,   foot-and-mouth   disease 383 

Symptomatic  anthrax.    See  Blackleg. 

Taenia  saginata,  tapeworm  cysts,  presence  in  cattle ii34 

Tail,  wolf  in,  imaginary  disease 27 

Tapeworm  cysts,  source  of  injury  to  cattle .534 

Tapeworms — 

adult,  of  small  intestine,  species  and  remedy 529 

cysts  in  muscles  of  cattle .534 

cysts  of  liver 532 

Tarsus,  fracture,  description  and  treatment 279 

Teats — 

blocked  by  calculus,  treatment 241 

blocked  by  concretion  of  casein,  cause  and  treatment 241 

blocked  by  warty  and  other  growth  inside,  description  and  treatment-  242 

chapped,  cause  and  treatment 241 

opening  in  the  side,  description  and  treatment 243 

scabby,   treatment 241 

warts  affecting,  treatment 241 

Teeth- 
caries,  description ^ 16 

irregularities,  cause  and  treatment 16 

Temperature — 

how  to  examine 88 

limits  for  dipping  bath 521 

Test,  tuberculin.    See  Tuberculin  test. 

Testicles,  congestion  and  inflammation,  description  and  treatment 150 

Tetanus — 

danger  in  castration  of  cattle 298 

reference 403 

Texas  fever — 

description,  symptoms,  prevention,  etc 473-506 

immunization  of  northern  cattle 498 

infection  carried  by  the  cattle  tick  (Margaropus  annulatus) 478 

injurious  effect  of  ticks —  480 

loss  occasioned  by  cattle  ticks 481 

methods  of  eradication 485-498 

nature  of  the  disease 474 

period  of  incubation  of  ticks 484 

prevention 48,5 

quarantine  regulations 503 

symptoms  and  pathological  changes  after  death 476-478 

tick  eradication,  plan  of  work 505 

Threadworms  in  abdominal  cavity  of  cattle 534 

Throat,  sore,  symptoms,  causes,  and  treatment 17 

Thrombosis,  description  and  symptoms 83 


INDEX.  565 

Thrush —  Page. 

calf,  description  and  treatment 261 

parasite  (Saccharomyces  albicans),  cause 261 

Ticks- 
cattle,  time  required  to  kill 486 

ear 523 

injury  to  cattle  hides 482 

parasites  of  cattle,  note 523 

See  also  Cattle  tick  ;  Texas  fever. 

Tilletia  caries  in  wheat,  effect  on  cattle 13 

Tinea  favosa,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 330 

Tinea  tonsurans,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 330 

Tracheotomy,  description 292 

Traumatic  inflammation  of  the  stomach,  cause,  symptoms,  and  treatment  34 

Trichiasis,    treatment 348 

Trichodectes  scalaris  (red  louse),  description  and  treatment 518 

Trichoplyton  tonsurans,  fungus  causing  Tinea  tonsurans 330 

Trumbower,   M.   R. — 

chapter  on  "  Diseases  of  the  ear  " 3.53-355 

chapter  on  "  Diseases  of  the  eye  and  its  appendages  " 338-352 

chapter  on  "  Diseases  of  the  foot  " 3.33-337 

chapter  on  "  Diseases  of  the  skin  " 318-332 

Trypanosoma  brucei,  cause  of  nagana,  or  tsetse-fly  disease 508 

Tsetse-fly  disease,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 508 

Tuberculin  test — 

description  and  history 415 

harmless    to    healthy    animals 424 

summary  of  directions  for  making 425 

Tuberculosis — 

bovine,  and  public  health 428 

cause  and  nature  of  disease 409 

occurrence    405 

statistics  of  tests  in  United  States 408 

symptoms   and   diagnosis 414—415 

transmissibility  of  human  and  bovine 430 

treatment    426 

Tumor — 

bony,  description  and  treatment 312 

chrondroma,   description  and   treatment 312 

fibroma,  description  and  treatment 309 

hairy,  on  eyeball,  description  and  treatment 347 

lipoma,  description  and  treatment 312 

sarcoma,   description   and   treatment 313 

Tumors — 

brain,    description 110 

calf,  description  and  treatment 179 

cattle,  chapter  by  John  R.  Mohler 301-317 

definition    and    description 301 

description 301,  303,  305 

description  of  kinds 307 

diagnosis    306 

eyelid,  description  and  treatment 348 

general    treatment 307 

kidney,    description 126 

malignant    and    benign,    description 304 

orbit,  cause  and  treatment 351 

pharynx,   description   and   treatment 19 

Twisted  stomach  worms,  description  and  treatment 525-526 

Twisting — • 

and  knotting  of  the  bowels,  causes,  symptoms,  post-mortem  appear- 
ance,  and   treatment 35 

of  the  neck  of  the  womb,  description  and  treatment 174 

Tympanites — 

acute,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 22 

chronic,  causes  and  treatment 25 


566  DISEASES   OF   CATTLE. 

Udder—                                                                                    .  I*age. 

congestion,  description  and  treatment 231 

contagious  inflammation  affecting,  description,  prevention,  and  treat- 
ment      235 

inflammation,   description,   symptoms,   and   treatment 232 

Ulceration,  heel,  causes  and  treatment 335 

Ulcerative  stomatitis.     See  Necrotic  stomatitis. 

Ulcers — 

calves.     See  Necrotic  stomatitis. 

cornea,  cause,  symptoms,  and  treatment 345 

penis,   cause   and   treatment 155 

Umbilical  hernia — 

description,  causes,  and  treatment 39 

symptoms    and    treatment 250 

Umbilical  phlebitis,  description,  causes,  and  treatment 247 

Urachus — 

inflammation,  causes  and  treatment 246 

persistent,    description    and    treatment 246 

Ureteral  calculi,  description  and  treatment 137 

Urethra,  inflammation  affecting,  description  and  treatment 154 

Urethral  calculus,  symptoms  and  treatment 140 

Urinary  calculi — 

classification 136 

description  and  causes 128, 135 

effect  of  different  feeds 131 

Urinary  disorders,   symptoms 116 

Urinary  organs — 

diseases,  chapter  by  James  Law 111-144 

functions 111 

Urine — 

albumin  in,  de.scription  and  treatment 119 

amount  passed  daily 113 

analyses  under  different  rations 112 

bloody,  caused  by  blood  flukes     535 

bloody,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 117 

cow,  analysis 112 

discharged  through  navel,  description  and  treatment 246 

excessive  secretion,  cause  and  treatment 116 

incontinence,  cause  and  treatment 128 

ox,   analysis 113 

retention,  effect,  cause,  and  treatment 126 

sugar  in,  description 121 

Urticaria,  description,  causes  and  treatment 322 

Uruguay,   foot-and-mouth  disease 384 

Uterus — 

hernia  affecting,  cause  and  treatment 160 

polypus  affecting,  description  and  treatment 155 

Vaccination,  disadvantages  in  use  against  anthrax 455 

Vaccine — 

anthrax,  care  and  use 455 

blackleg,  free  distribution,   note 461 

preparation  and  use  against  hemorrhagic  septicemia 303 

Vagina — 

clots  of  blood  on  walls,  description  and  treatment 218 

inflammation,  causes  and  treatment 221 

lacerations  and  rupture,  description  and  treatment 217 

polypus  affecting,  description  and  treatment 155 

Yagina;' prolapsus,  description  and  treatment 160 

Vaginal  walls,  affected  with  coagulated  blood  after  calving,  treatment—  177 

Vaginitis,  causes  and  treatment 221 

Valves,  heart,  diseases  affecting,  symptoms  and  treatment 80 

Variola,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 436 

Vegetable —  ^ 

acids,  poisonous,  description  and  treatment -^8 

poisons — 

note ^'1 

uses  as  medicine,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 61-69 


INDEX.  567 

Veins —  Page. 

inflammation,  description  and  treatment 84 

wounds,  description  and  treatment 81 

"Venereal  desire,  diminution  or  loss,  cause,  prevention,  and  treatment 147 

Venereal  excess,  cause  and  treatment 146 

Venomous  stings.     See  Snake  bites. 

Ventral  hernia,  description  and  causes 37 

Verminous  bronchitis — 

description,  symptoms,  and  prevention 98 

parasites  causing .53.5 

Vermont,   foot-and-mouth  disease 38.5 

Verruca,  description,  cause,  and  treatment 329 

Vertebra,  fracture,  description  and  treatment 277 

Vesical  calculus,  symptoms  and  treatment 140 

Vesicular  eruption  of  genital  organs,  description,  symptoms,  and  treat- 
ment^   399 

Vesicular  exanthema,  symptoms  and  treatment 399 

Veterinarians,  views  on  foot-and-mouth  disease  in  man 393 

Vi'-ginia,  foot-and-mouth  disease 386 

A'^itreous  humor  of  the  eye,  description 340 

Vomiting,  symptoms,  cause,  and  treatment 27 

Wall,  hoof,  fissure,  description  and  treatment 3.36 

Warble  fly- 
damages,    estimate , 516 

European  species,  appearance  in  United  States 516 

Warbles — 

description  and  treatment 515 

penetration  of  skins  of  cattle 516 

reference 331 

Warts — 

description,   causes,    and   treatment 310, 329 

penis,  treatment 154 

teats,    treatment 241 

Washington,    foot-and-mouth    disease 386 

Wasp  stings,  description  and  treatment 69 

Water — 

blisters,  symptoms  and  treatment 320 

cold,  drinking,  a  cause  of  indigestion,  symptoms  and  treatment 31 

head  of  calf,  description  and  treatment 177 

Weather,  relation  to  occurrence  of  mycotic  stomatitis 390 

Wens,  description  and  treatment 328 

West  Virginia,  foot-and-mouth  disease 386 

Wisconsin,    foot-and-mouth    disease 386 

Withers,  casting,  cause  and  treatment 213 

Wolf  in  the  tail,  imaginary  disease 27 

Womb — 

bleeding  from,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 212 

dropsy,  description  and  treatment 160 

eversion,  cause  and  treatment 213 

fetus  developing  outside,  description  and  treatment 161 

inflammation,  causes,  symptoms,   and  treatment 222 

mouth,  induration,  description  and  treatment 174 

rupture,  cause  and  treatment 217 

twisting  of  neck,  description  and  treatment 174 

Wooden  tongue.     See  Actinomycosis. 

Wood-ill,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 117 

Worm — 

encysted  stomach,  description  and  treatment 528 

eye,  description  and  treatment 347 

Worms — 

bladder,    description 533 

lung,  of  cattle,  description  and  treatment 535 

screw,    description   and   remedies : 514 

thread,  in  abdominal  cavity  of  cattle 534 

twisted  stomach,  description  and  treatment 525-526 


568  DISEASES  OF   CATTLE. 

Wounds—  I'age. 

abdomen,  causes,  symptoms,  and  treatment 43 

arteries  and  veins,  description  and  treatment 81 

contused  and  lacerated,  description  and  treatment 296 

contusions  of  tlie  lips  and  snake  bites  of  mouth,  description   and 

treatment 14 

danger  of  infection  from  foot-and-mouth  disease 392 

drainage,   necessity 296 

gullet,  description  and  treatment 22 

healing,  treatment  and  dressing,  description 296 

hoof,   treatment 336 

incised — 

description  and  treatment 293 

punctured,  and  lacerated,  description  and  treatment 293-297 

mouth,  snake  bites  and  contusions  of  lips,  treatment 14 

penis,  cause  and  treatment 154 

skin,  kinds,  description,  and  treatment 331-332 

treatment,  summary  of  care  after  dressing 296 

Yellows,  description,  symptoms,  and  treatment 44 

Zinc  poisoning,  description  and  treatment 57 

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